Garfagnana, Tuscany’s Green Paradise

Picture hilltop medieval villages where the rhythm of life has barely changed over the centuries, dense forests crossed by hiking trails, peaceful lakes perfect for a picnic, and stone bridges that seem to belong to a fairytale. Garfagnana embodies the essence of rural Tuscany, a place to enjoy authentic experiences far from the usual tourist routes.
Easily reached by car from Hotel Ilaria in Lucca, Garfagnana is ideal for a day trip. The valley offers a rare combination of natural beauty, history and tranquillity, increasingly hard to find in Tuscany’s more popular destinations.

Barga, known as “the most Scottish town in Italy” thanks to its historical links with Scotland, is an unmissable stop. Its lively historic centre features a beautiful Romanesque cathedral overlooking the valley, Renaissance palaces, art galleries and welcoming cafés. The panoramic view from the cathedral alone is worth the visit.
Castelnuovo di Garfagnana is the beating heart of the valley. While it may not boast spectacular monuments, it offers excellent restaurants and serves as an ideal base for numerous hiking routes. Don’t miss the Rocca Ariostesca, the medieval fortress dominating the main square, and the Fortress of Mont’Alfonso, just outside the town, offering breathtaking views. Nature lovers will enjoy the Orecchiella Nature Reserve, a beautifully maintained protected area of around 50 square kilometres in the Apennines, complete with a botanical garden and a small wildlife park—highly recommended for families with children.

Garfagnana is also a land of legends. The Devil’s Bridge (Ponte della Maddalena), encountered when travelling north from Lucca, is an impressive 12th-century medieval bridge. According to legend, its builder made a pact with the devil to complete it on time, promising the soul of the first living being to cross it. Cleverly, however, he sent a pig across the bridge first, outwitting the devil.
Deep within the Apuan Alps you will also find the spectacular Grotta del Vento and Antro del Corchia, fascinating cave systems that captivate visitors of all ages.