This part of Tuscany was a complete surprise and a total delight. Not only did we have the typical walking through rolling pastureland covered with wildflowers, we also had many walks through shady forests decorated with sun streaming through the new green leaves and over a floor of last years copper leaves before we emerged onto high ridges to enjoy stunning views over still snow clad peaks. A total delight.
Trade the crowds of southern Tuscany for the wild, remote beauty of the Apuane Alps on the 'Walking in Tuscany's Apuane Alps' tour—a self-guided 8-day walking trip tailored for those who crave dramatic mountain scenery and genuine Italian hospitality. Starting in Tuscany and finishing in Lucca, this itinerary takes you from the small town of Fornaci di Barga into chestnut forests, across limestone massifs, and through vineyards to age-old hamlets.
Highlights include the ascent of Monte Forato, the exploration of Italy’s largest cave system at Grotta del Vento, and the option to summit Pania della Croce for panoramic views. Along the way, visit remote chapels and the serene hermitage at Calomini, all while enjoying the warm welcome of village residents who are eager to share their traditions.
Accommodations are cozy and limited to a maximum of two single rooms, ensuring an intimate experience. Meals and logistics are expertly handled so you can focus on the scenery.
The unique selling point of this trip is the chance to discover Tuscany’s untamed north—a region few tourists ever see—where mountain adventure meets local culture and tranquility.
Discover Tuscany’s hidden corners with the "Via Francigena: Pontremoli to Lucca" walking tour. This eight-day self-guided journey guides travelers from Pontremoli’s castle-dotted hills to the walled city of Lucca, taking in the lush landscapes of Versilia and the artistic hub of Pietrasanta. Enjoy the option to swim along sandy beaches, explore ancient workshops, and stroll through some of Tuscany’s most captivating old towns. The unique selling point: the blend of coastal and countryside walking, punctuated by lesser-known cultural gems and authentic regional hospitality. Ideal for those who want to experience a quieter side of the Italian Camino.
Discover the Tuscan countryside and culture on this 8-day self-guided walking tour. Through the extensive footpath network of the area, roughly following the traces of the Via Francigena, one of Europe’s most important ‘highways’ in medieval times, you walk from village to village and experience a full immersion in the world-famous Tuscan landscape. The tour is perfect as an introduction to the region and a great choice for people who love museums, galleries and Gothic and Romanesque architecture. You have plenty of time to visit attractions on most of the days.
You will also have time to visit all the beautiful medieval villages and historic towns along the Via Francigena: starting from beautiful Lucca, you’ll pass through Fucecchio, San Miniato, Gambassi Terme, the stunning San Gimignano with its medieval skyscrapers and Monteriggioni, admired by Dante in his Divine Comedy. An optional detour can bring you to beautiful Colle Val d’Elsa and the tour ends in Siena, arguably the most perfectly preserved medieval town in Tuscany. This tour threads together some of the most attractive towns and villages in Tuscany in an eloquent procession.
However, the emphasis of the tour is to enjoy the countryside, the rolling vineyards, the poppies in spring and the wild cyclamen in autumn. The area north of Siena is an amazing landscape of rolling hills, alternating vineyards and forests, while cypresses line the way leading to the distant farmhouses. Walking here is an unforgettable experience and many of the views have barely changed for hundreds of years.
Accommodation and some meals are included. You spend a night in one of the best agriturismos in Tuscany, and the final night in the heart of Siena, in one of the most characteristic little hotels.
This is a moderately easy tour which is suitable for those who have some experience of walking and a good general physical condition.