An itinerary between Stiappa and Pontito
Valleriana, or Svizzera Pesciatina, is an area of the Valdinievole valley known for its natural landscapes and the fortified villages dotted across it. Known as “dieci Castella” (ten Castles), Pietrabuona, Vellano, Sorana, Medicina, Fibbialla, Aramo, Castelvecchio, San Quirico, Pontito and Stiappa are ancient fortified villages that are still authentic.
Setting off from the Romanesque church of Santa Maria Assunta in Stiappa, which stands at an altitude of 627 meters on the slopes of Monte Battifolle and once marked the border between the Grand Duchy of Tuscany and the Duchy of Lucca, you follow the route along CAI Trail 261 and begin to climb, leaving the village behind us.
You then come to Sargentino, where you turn right onto CAI Trail 250 and proceed until you get to the highest point of the hike, Monte Biffa del Troggio (1132 m). From here, you descend to Croce a Veglia, which offers a spectacular panoramic view. Not far away are the ruins of Spedaletto.
Continuing along CAI Trail 254, you will come to Pontito, another of the ten “Castella” castles and an ideal place to stop and catch your breath. The Church of Santi Andrea e Lucia is worth visiting. Inside it, you will find a 16th-century Adoration of the Shepherds, influenced by Sebastiano Vini, and a 15th-century immersion baptismal font.
After exploring Pontito, pick up CAI Trail 261 again to return to Stiappa, past the picturesque Mulino del Grillo (Mill of the Cricket). Surrounded by an enchanting atmosphere, it takes a few minutes to get back to Stiappa.