From Croci to Macchino - a journey through forests and hilly vistas

Our route starts from the locality of Croci at 1237 feet (377 meters) above sea level, in the municipality of Massa e Cozzile in Valdinievole. Drive to the starting point and park in the large clearing in front of the “margine” (holy shrine), once in adoration of Madonna delle Grazie and a destination for pilgrims. Nearby are the remnants of the Verruca Castle, an ancient settlement of which remains only the cross.

Croci is a strategic departure point for various locations: Marliana, Cozzile, Massa, Macchino and many other destinations besides. On this hike, you'll reach Macchino at a good 2467 feet (752 meters) above sea level.

At Croci, you can refill your water bottle then hit the trail once more by turning right from the margine, where you immediately come to the CAI Trail no. 42. The track is wide, alternating between stretches of dirt and gravel road, first slightly then sharply uphill. Pass through a picturesque landscape of chestnut trees, acacias, ferns, brambles, elderberries and pines. Along the way, pass the Poderino on your right then an aqueduct on the left.

The signs will direct you to a broad plateau. To the right, you'll see the Colle di Verruca at an elevation of 1722 feet (525 meters), in front of which is a water reservoir for fighting fires and on the left, the signs for the trail. Here, turn left toward Macchino-Alteto. At the next fork, stick left, following the Trail no. 40 to Macchino.

This trail is part of the Alta Via (High Route) of Valdinievole, connecting Pieve a Nievole to Pescia, maintaining good altitude and offering unforgettable views and vistas.

The trail goes up in the shade, mostly along dirt paths with some rocky sections. At any intersections, always follow the red-and-white signs. Continue on, flaking the metal fence of the first dwelling you encounter on the left, then make headway along a dirt road that turns to gravel until reaching the paved road SP 31, crossing the locality of Treggiaie-Tomboli.

Turn right onto the road SP 31, walking along for about 5 minutes until coming to a detour on the left that leads you back onto the trail. From there, in no time at all, you'll come to Macchino.

At Macchino, you could continue to Vellano, one of the ten “castella” (medieval villages) of the Svizzera Pesciatina, and from Vellano reach Pescia. However, for your return trip, retrace the same path as that followed at the start.