Luxury Walking Holidays Tuscany
Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Garfagnana
Savour the region’s exquisite gastronomy and fine wines
Explore ancient villages steeped in history and culture
Relish the challenge and reward of invigorating hikes
Unwind in high-end accommodations with stunning views
Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of a well-planned itinerary
Itinerary
For the upcoming week, you’ll be lodged at Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, a charming town located about two hours from Pisa Airport. To get acquainted with the town and its surroundings, you can already take a walk through the streets and explore its hidden corners.
Following breakfast at Castelnuovo, you’ll set off for the quaint village of Pruno with a private transfer, which marks the start of our trek into the Orecchiella National Park. The path gradually ascends to the flat peak of Pania di Corfino, offering breathtaking panoramic views. After a relaxed break at the top, you’ll proceed to the 16th-century village of Campaiana and then follow an old mule track descending to the town of Corfino.
13 km; 600 m of elevation gain and 600 m of elevation loss
Today starts with a 40-minute drive to the small village of Vianova, where the hike into the Alpi Apuane National Park begins. The initial climb is through a wide forest track that continues through beech woods to the first viewpoint across to the face of Pania della Croce and the Omo Morto range. From this point, you follow a footpath ascending to a limestone plateau, where there is an optional climb to the summit of Monte Sumbra. After lunch on the summit, it’s time to retrace your steps back to the starting point.
10 km; 670 m of elevation gain and 670 m of elevation loss
A slightly easier day is ahead for you today. From your hotel in Castelnuovo, you’ll walk to reach Castiglione di Garfagnana, a beautiful medieval town. Castiglione is also known for hosting the region’s largest and most popular chestnut festival each autumn. After drinking in its stunning scenery, you’ll return to your accommodation in Castelnuovo.
19 km; 150 m of elevation gain and 150 m of elevation loss
Today is a free day for you to explore the surrounding Tuscan cities, all accessible by train: Lucca, Firenze, or Pisa. Whichever you’ll choose, you won’t be left disappointed and will return to Castelnuovo filled with a newfound wonder for the Tuscan towns.
A 25-minute private transfer to Lago di Vagli, with its submerged village and impressive Monte Sumbra backdrop, will bring you to the starting point for the day: Vagli Sotto. From here, a small footpath will take you to the town of Vagli Sopra, where you’ll ascend on a section of the pilgrimage walk through chestnut woods to arrive at the 16th-century shepherd’s village of Campocatino.
From here, you’ll continue to the highest point for the day at 1190m before descending through the trees to San Viviano’s Hermitage, nowadays used as a chapel and pilgrimage site. The descent will take you upon a rarely used mountain path with views across the valley before arriving back at the pick-up point.
13 km; 630 m of elevation gain and 630 m of elevation loss
The day kicks off with a 40-minute drive to the small ski area of Casone. Walking through beech woods brings you to the beginning of the Crinali Ridge, a section of the 1600-kilometre Apennine Ridge in the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park, offering some of the most impressive views of the week. You’ll take an easy path along the undulating ridge leading up to the peak of Monte Prado, the highest in Tuscany at 2054m. After lunch, it’s time to retrace your steps before descending on another route through woodland back to Casone.
16 km; 740 m of elevation gain and 740 m of elevation loss
This morning you’ll enjoy one final breakfast before bidding a warm goodbye to Castelnuovo and the warm embrace of the Tuscan hills.
Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
Pricing
Included in price
Tour design and organisation
24/7 service and support during your holidays
GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app
7x half-board accommodation in 4/5* hotels
Transfers as per itinerary
Description
Picture this: You’re strolling through the verdant landscapes of Garfagnana, a hidden gem nestled between the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, a place where time seems to stand still, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons and the sun’s journey across the sky.
The hikes, while challenging, are a rewarding exploration of Tuscany’s diverse landscapes. Each step takes you deeper into the heart of the region, revealing breathtaking vistas and hidden corners of natural beauty. And with ample time to explore at your own pace, you can truly immerse yourself in the magic of Tuscany.
As your trusted travel partner, we ensure a seamless and above-ordinary experience. We meticulously oversee the availability and booking of high-end accommodations, provide a detailed itinerary with day-by-day guidance, and equip you with a user-friendly GPS navigation app.
From local recommendations to solving any logistical issues, we’ve got you covered. Your accommodation will be nothing short of luxurious, with transfers included and a focus on gastronomic delights that will tantalise your taste buds.
Here is your invitation to experience the authentic Italian lifestyle, connect with the land and its people, and create your own Tuscan story. So, are you ready to venture on this unforgettable journey?
Map
Start planning today!
Things to know
Our walking holidays in Tuscany are primarily focused on leisurely exploration, offering a delightful experience without significant elevation gain. However, it’s important to note that certain stages of the Via Francigena can be quite long. In addition, we also offer other holiday options that include more demanding hikes. Regardless of the holiday you choose, we aim to provide a high-quality experience catering to different fitness levels. So, whether you prefer leisurely strolls through the picturesque Tuscan countryside or more demanding hikes to push your limits, we have options to suit your preferences and ensure a fulfilling journey.
Absolutely! Our hiking holidays are designed to be inclusive and can be enjoyed by people of various age groups, including children. Most of our tours do not include technically demanding terrain. We believe in the importance of providing opportunities for children to embrace the outdoors and experience the joys of hiking. While a minimum age of eight is recommended to ensure safety and engagement, our tours are generally suitable for individuals who possess basic physical capabilities and can comfortably walk for a few hours daily.
For our walking tours, we highly recommend wearing sturdier hiking shoes that provide ample support, particularly during long hiking days and on uneven terrain. Hiking shoes are designed specifically for outdoor activities, offering features such as sturdy soles, enhanced traction, and ankle support. They are well-suited to handle various terrains, including gravel paths, rocky trails, and uneven surfaces commonly encountered during our walking tours. Opting for appropriate footwear ensures comfort and stability and minimises the risk of foot fatigue or potential injuries.
We highly recommend making an advance booking to ensure accommodation availability. Securing your reservation early increases the likelihood of obtaining your preferred options. If you wait until the start of the season or during the season, availability in hotels and apartments may be limited, and we may not be able to guarantee your desired arrangements.
It’s important to be aware that accommodations at the destinations are in high demand, especially during the summer season. To secure your preferred type of housing, we strongly recommend booking early. By doing so, you increase the likelihood of obtaining the accommodation that best suits your preferences. While the availability of specific lodging options may vary, we assure you that we will make every effort to provide you with the most suitable accommodations based on your preferences. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your stay is comfortable and enjoyable, and we strive to meet your specific requirements to the best of our ability.
Our tours are meticulously planned and designed to be easily navigated by independent travelers. The destinations are well-marked and accessible, allowing you to explore at your own pace. As such, it is unlikely that you will require a guide during your tour.
To ensure you have all the necessary information and guidance, we provide a comprehensive handout that covers essential details about the routes, points of interest, and practical tips. This enables you to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of a self-guided holiday, where you can fully immerse yourself in the experience and discover the beauty of each destination at your leisure.
However, if you prefer to have a guide accompany you during the tours, we are more than happy to accommodate your request. Simply let us know in advance, and we will make the necessary arrangements to provide you with a knowledgeable guide who can enhance your journey with insightful commentary and assistance.
The best time to go on a walking holiday in Tuscany is during the early spring and fall seasons. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer, allowing for a more tranquil and enjoyable experience.
In the early spring, typically from March to May, you can witness the region come alive with vibrant blossoms and lush greenery. The temperatures are mild, making it perfect for exploring the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany on foot. Additionally, the tourist crowds are relatively smaller during this time, providing you with a more intimate and serene setting to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.
Similarly, the fall season, from September to November, offers a delightful time to visit. The weather remains pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ideal for walking and exploring. The autumn colours add a captivating charm to the landscapes, creating a picturesque backdrop for your walking tour. With fewer visitors compared to the peak summer months, you can fully appreciate the tranquillity and authenticity of the region.
It’s worth noting that the summer months in Tuscany, particularly July, and August, can be quite hot and crowded. While the region maintains its allure during this time, the higher temperatures and increased tourist influx may impact your overall experience. However, if you plan accordingly and take precautions against the heat and the crowds, summer can still offer enjoyable walking opportunities in Tuscany.
In cases of light rain or mild weather disturbances, hiking can often still be safely managed as long as it does not pose any significant risks. The stunning landscapes of Tuscany can take on a unique charm under a drizzle, offering a different perspective and an enchanting experience.
However, in situations where the weather becomes more severe, such as heavy rainstorms or thunderstorms, our team will assess the situation and make appropriate adjustments to ensure your safety. This may involve modifying the planned routes, seeking shelter, or postponing the activity until the weather improves.