Trekking in Lunigiana: the 5 most charming itineraries

A family walk in the mountains of Pontremoli, on the ridge between the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines and the Ligurian Apennines, that connects two of the entrances to Lunigiana: the Bratello Pass and the Borgallo Pass. Through a fascinating forest of conifers and beech trees, you can reach one of the historic crossroads that has connected Lunigiana with the Po Valley since ancient times. Among the tall trees, you will find several areas equipped for lunches or picnics in the open air, where you can relax in the cool environment.

Characteristics: In the area, there are small, very simple ring routes, that follow mule tracks and dirt roads. Suitable for all ages.

A short walk to connect the Triassic gypsum of Sassalbo with the Camporaghena meadows above: here's a path that reveals the geological, environmental and landscape diversity of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park. The white rocks are composed of gypsum and salt, deposited by the evaporation of water in the Triassic era. Following paths 100A and 100, a simple circular route will take you to the Camporaghena meadows, open pastures from where the view displays the ridge of Monte Alto.

Characteristics: A short and very simple ring route lasting about 2 hours, suitable for families.

This itinerary allows you to discover the most authentic Apuan Alps. From Vinca, a place of remembrance for the massacre that took place here during the Second World War, take path number 175 to reach the panoramic grassy expanses of the Foce di Giovo, an excellent observation point over the Lucido Valley and the Apuan peaks. More experienced hikers can return to Vinca via a challenging loop route, continuing in the direction of the Orto di Donna Refuge and then towards the Finestra del Grondilice, a rocky and charming saddle at the foot of the mountain of the same name. After the saddle, the descent towards the Foce Rasori and the Capanna Garnerone begins, a self-catering shelter.

Characteristics: The first part of the path, up to the Foce di Giovo, is suitable for hikers. The next section, (CAI paths 179 - 186 - 183 - 153), which completes the Vinca ring, presents greater technical difficulties and is reserved for experts.

The perfect path for those who want to escape the heat and immerse themselves in a truly unspoiled environment. From the chestnut grove of Iera, a small village in the Apennines, the path leads us into the woods alongside the Bagnone stream. The sound of flowing water accompanies us to the Capanne in Garbia, small bivouacs created from the historic shepherds' huts. The path is all uphill, but there's the possibility of stopping for a dip in the numerous pools or for a photograph at the waterfalls. For those who still want to continue, it's possible to reach the Tornini huts and from here, climb to the summit of Monte Sillara.

Characteristics: The first part of the path, up to the Capanne in Garbia, is suitable for families (with children used to walking about 1h30), the next section presents some difficulties due to the steep difference in height.

Two easy trails both depart and arrive at the ApuanGeoLab Regional Park Visitor Center, that allows you to discover the environmental and geological wealth of these mountains, even when visiting with family. Along the way, there are springs, wash houses, spas, mills, and also the remains of centuries-old factories and sawmills. In the villages of Equi, Aiola and Monzone, the streets, windows and monuments reveal the geological diversity of our land: from marble, to hard sandstone, to limestone. Alternatively, one of the paths leads to Solco di Equi, a narrow and deep natural canyon along which numerous geosites can be observed, such as the deep moraine of Valtredi or the north face of Pizzo d’Uccello. Keep your eyes peeled: on the surrounding cliffs, you might spot a golden eagle nest!

Characteristics: one of the paths connects Equi to the villages of Aiola and Monzone, with a ring route of about 6 km; the other route joins Equi and Solco di Equi (3 + 3 km). The two routes are simple and suitable for families. For more information click here.