Immersion in the Biogenetic Forest of Pian degli Ontani

The Biogenetic Nature Reserve of Pian degli Ontani is one f the most beautiful forests of the Mountains around Pistoia. It covers about 500 hectares and is managed by the State Forestry Corps. It lies in the catchment area of the Sestaione stream and is bordered by a ridge with wide open areas and grasslands, from which rise Poggione (1761 meters), Pizzo Alpestre (1743 meters) and Monte Uccelliera (1656 meters).

The route starts from the square adjacent to the Hotel La Villa, where there is a fountain to refill water (although there will be various sources along the trail).

The start is immediately uphill on the paved section leading to the entrance of the Forest. The first 3.5 kilometers from the start take us to the Refuge Lippi (unmanaged), also known as Lagacciolo, a name derived from the pool of stagnant water a few dozen meters away. The bottom of this first section is beautiful and also popuar with many walkers: it is therefore important to pay attention, especially in the blind bends.

From the Refuge Lippi we can decide whether to walk along the loop clockwise or anti-clockwise (the proposed trail follows the clockwise route).

Continuing along the track we will come to a first climb that is not too challenging and leads to the "wall," where a footpath begins that cuts the loop in half. We pay attention to the descent that leads to the Balzo del cinghiale (Boar’s Leap), since the bottom, while still nice and wide, is slightly rougher, especially at some bends. 

After the leap, the road slowly climbs back up to the Refuge Cecchini (unmanaged), where we also find the freshest and best water source in the area. 

From here, if we wanted to stretch, a climb just over 1 kilometer long that is very technical because of its gradients, starts, leading to the well-known Prato Bellincioni. There is no harm in trying, but if we do not have enough "leg," it is better to continue towards the last climb of the route, that of Balzi bianchi, which will take us to the maximum altitude of the route at 1360 meters. From here the descent to Refuge Lippi will start. 

The return will be on the outward route, but we can take advantage of the flat stretches to melt away the fatigues of the climb and fully enjoy the shade and fresh air of the forest with tall trees, even in the hottest days. 

Itinerary by Leonardo Corsini