Between the Cisa and Forbici passes, the wooded crests that separate Tuscany from Emilia open up into a real mountain environment. The peaks of Succiso, Monte Prado and Monte Cusna rise over 2000m, forests give way to rocks, lakes and high altitude prairies. Down below on the Emilia side, the Pietra di Bismantova dominates the landscape with its vertical walls. The Tuscan-Emilian Apennine Park boasts extraordinary sights, from the prairies to the blackberry bushes to impervious peaks, lakes, waterfalls, rocky cliffs and more. Animals like wolves, goats, and bald eagles can be seen in their natural habitats which are filled with rare and native botanical species. The area is equipped with numerous hospitality structures where visitors can indulge in some relaxation or sports high above the Tuscan valleys. The area includes parts of both the province of Lucca, with Giuncugnano, San Romano in Garfagnana and Villacollemandina, and Massa Cararra, with Comano, Filattiera, Fivizzano and Licciana Nardi.
Culture and the Apennines: The area’s history and memories are wisely safeguarded by the locals. Ancient occupations like shepherding, lumberjacking, farming and more have continued to this day and serve to enrich the area’s economy and character. Tradition and folklore are the glue that hold the people together, while the dialects and place names are glimpses into the area’s rich past. There are numerous prestigious architectural constructions in the area including churches, villages, castles, towers and more. Much of the area’s history is preserved thanks to the many poets who have come from or passed through the region and included it in their art—the most famous being the divine Dante Alighieri.
Cultural heritage: Numerous archeological sites testify to the area’s millennia old importance, beginning in prehistoric times. The ancients harnessed the water to be used in windmills, built fortresses and tower-houses and joined in prayer in the churches. Many of these things have come down to us in varying conditions, but all are testaments to the area’s history and human ingenuity. There are numerous museums in the area including the Botanical Gardens, the Museo del Maggio and the Museo della Stampa.
Sports and the Apennines: The park’s territory Is characterized by snow and forests, slopes and clearings, peat bog and wooded roads. It is a landscape filled with emotion and a million possibilities for physical activities and sports. The area’s natural sports “arena” is open year road and boasts a variety of possibilities. Hikers and walkers will delight in the direct contact with the pristine nature while sports lovers have a wealth of options including rock climbing, biking, horseback riding, Nordic walking, adventure parks, heart-smart trails, sky running and all winter sports.
For trails and specific information, see www.parcoappennino.it.
Culture and the Apennines: The area’s history and memories are wisely safeguarded by the locals. Ancient occupations like shepherding, lumberjacking, farming and more have continued to this day and serve to enrich the area’s economy and character. Tradition and folklore are the glue that hold the people together, while the dialects and place names are glimpses into the area’s rich past. There are numerous prestigious architectural constructions in the area including churches, villages, castles, towers and more. Much of the area’s history is preserved thanks to the many poets who have come from or passed through the region and included it in their art—the most famous being the divine Dante Alighieri.
Cultural heritage: Numerous archeological sites testify to the area’s millennia old importance, beginning in prehistoric times. The ancients harnessed the water to be used in windmills, built fortresses and tower-houses and joined in prayer in the churches. Many of these things have come down to us in varying conditions, but all are testaments to the area’s history and human ingenuity. There are numerous museums in the area including the Botanical Gardens, the Museo del Maggio and the Museo della Stampa.
Sports and the Apennines: The park’s territory Is characterized by snow and forests, slopes and clearings, peat bog and wooded roads. It is a landscape filled with emotion and a million possibilities for physical activities and sports. The area’s natural sports “arena” is open year road and boasts a variety of possibilities. Hikers and walkers will delight in the direct contact with the pristine nature while sports lovers have a wealth of options including rock climbing, biking, horseback riding, Nordic walking, adventure parks, heart-smart trails, sky running and all winter sports.
For trails and specific information, see www.parcoappennino.it.

Where to eat





