Casentino, the valley between Florence and Arezzo traversed by the first stretch of the Arno River, represents the wildest and most unspoiled part of Tuscany, with its centuries-old forests of fir, beech and chestnut trees; and let's not forget the small medieval settlements, real jewels set in these lands rich in nature.
So leave the city behind and set off, on your bike or on foot, to explore the Casentino Forests, the boundless Pratomagno and the historic villages that make Casentino an exceptional summer destination.
Contents
1.
Outdoor activities immersed in nature
2.
Typical products and dishes in the shade of ancient trees
3.
The cool waters of Casentino
4.
Culture and everyday life
Outdoor activities immersed in nature
Pratomagno - Credit: Carlo Gabrielli
On the 600 km of trails that wind through the forests of Casentino, we are free to take our time and follow the rhythm of nature. Walking along paths framed by trees, we continue until we encounter the first traces of life in the small villages perched on the slopes of the Apennines. Raggiolo, for example, is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in history, retracing the events that have occurred here since its origins in the 13th century, when it was under the jurisdiction of the Counti Guidi; or we can head for Moggiona, undisputed king of the porcini mushroom located between Poppi and Camaldoli
The Pratomagno cannot definitely be missed: its vast meadows will allow you to have the electrifying experience of seeing free grazing horses. With their sinuous movements and manes moved by the wind, they are undoubtedly an unforgettable sight.
Typical products and dishes in the shade of ancient trees
Casentino is also a paradise for those who are eager to try new delicacies and gastronomic specialties. It is certainly worth discovering the flavors of its traditional dishes in between excursions.
If the day is too sultry, don’t be afraid, you can take refuge in the cool of the Casentino Forest National Park while savoring the excellent Camaldoli's, accompanied by game meats.
The timeless Corezzo's tortello alla lastra, born out of the mountain people's ability to combine the few ingredients available, is instead for those who prefer to relive the poor taste of Casentino cuisine.
The cool waters of Casentino
Creek in the forests of Casentino
If you're downstream, bring your picnic basket to the "Steccaia," near Bibbiena, and dive into the cool waters of Corsalone, one of Casentino's swimmable rivers, cuddled by the shade of tree foliage. There is no shortage of space: indulge in relaxing moments by soaking in the cool waters while the kids play happily with the spring water.
To satisfy your curiosity and learn more about the fish that lives in the river, you can visit Molin di Bucchio, the first mill you come across on the Arno River, not far from Pratovecchio Stia. Here, of mountain aquaculture, they have turned it into a passion.
Culture and everyday life
Learn the cuisine of yesteryear characterized by the poor style and the exclusive use of what nature has to offer, perhaps in the company of a guide who will take you in search of the wild herbs of the forest. Look at the wheat fields and imagine the ancient millstones of Molino Grifoni in Pagliericcio at work: for centuries, the art of grain milling has been passed on here and these wonders have been transformed into flour to sustain the villages of Casentino.
But we don't not stop there; in the evening, go out and admire the sky like never before. Stargaze while getting lost in the silence of nature, and in July have fun chasing fireflies.
