The Tuscan-Emilian Apennines are tinged a thousand shades of yellow, orange and red during the Autumn season. The medley of colors blends perfectly with the autumn flavors of Mugello, rich in chestnuts, truffles and mushrooms. Here, we have selected some of the most charming settings to immerse yourself in the foliage of Mugello.
Contents
1.
Badia di Moscheta and surroundings
2.
The chestnut groves in Marradi
3.
The town of Palazzuolo sul Senio
4.
From Prato all'Albero to I Diacci and back
5.
Castagno d'Andrea and its forests
1.
Badia di Moscheta and surroundings
Badia di Moscheta - Credit: Valentina Dainelli
The thousand-year-old Badia di Moscheta, founded in 1034 by San Giovanni Gualberto, is surrounded by the woods of the Giogo-Casaglia Park in the municipality of Firenzuola. The “Sentiero dei seccatoi” (trail of driers) is particularly fascinating during fall as it travels through Moscheta, passing by old chestnut driers. The trail passes by several striking centuries-old chestnut groves that are simply unmissable. The path is suitable for families with children, but not with strollers.
Chestnut grove in Marradi - Credit: Valentina Dainelli
The area of Marradi in the Alto Mugello is renowned for the cultivation of the delicious Marrone chestnut, i.e. the Marron Buono di Marradi. Have you ever walked in a chestnut grove? It’s something magical! The light and the colours are unbeliavably striking. In October, many private chestnut groves along the Strada del Marrone are opened for harvesting, meaning you can go and pick your own chestnuts at a reduced price.
Last but not least, every Sunday in October, Marradi becomes the town of chestnuts thanks to the famous Sagra delle Castagne, visitable from Florence aboard a steam-engined train.
1.
The town of Palazzuolo sul Senio
Palazzuolo sul Senio - Credit: Valntina Dainelli
The town of Palazzuolo sul Senio is listed as one of the Borghi più belli d’Italia (most fascinating small Italian towns). During fall it becomes even more fascinating! Centuries-old stone houses, narrow streets, and smoking chimneys are immersed in Autumn colours.
Every Sunday in October, Palazzuolo sul Senio celebrates autumn and its fruits with the traditional Sagra del marrone e dei frutti del sottobosco (Festival of chestnuts and forest fruits).
1.
From Prato all'Albero to I Diacci and back
Prato all'Albero - Credit: Valentina Dainelli
Mugello counts about 2,000 km of sign-posted trails suitable for all levels. Some of the most remarkable routes are located within Giogo-Casaglia Park with its large woods of oaks, chestnuts, and beeches.
The stunning landscapes can be admired by following the very easy trail, “Anello de I Diacci” that departs from Prato all’Albero to reach the mountain shelter of I Diacci, stopping by the impressive Abbraccio Waterfall.
1.
Castagno d'Andrea and its forests
Fall colors - Credit: Daniele Lombardi
The Gate to the National Park of Casentino Forests in the little town of Castagno d’Andrea is fascinating. It’s surrounded by one the most beautiful forests in the world, offering every single autumnal shade of colour imaginable.
This tiny mountain village is the birthplace of Renaissance painter Andrea del Castagno and it’s the perfect starting point for your foliage journey in the Mugello region.
