Alpi  Apuane  Regional  Park

Latest page update: 18 September 2024
By Dion Protani
The Alpi Apuane Regional Park is situated in northwestern Tuscany, primarily within the province of Lucca.

​Known for its stunning mountainous landscapes characterized by marble quarries, rugged peaks, and deep valleys, the park offers opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring caves. It is most famous for its marble, which has been quarried for centuries.
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Alpi Apuane Regional Park: marble quarries and rugged peaks
The Alpi Apuane Regional Park, famed for its striking marble quarries, offers a majestic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its rugged peaks and verdant valleys provide ample opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore charming mountain villages like Carrara and Pietrasanta, known for their artistic heritage and picturesque streets.

​Adventure-seekers can embark on guided tours to discover the secrets of the marble industry or delve into the park's ancient caves. With its breathtaking vistas and diverse ecosystems, the Alpi Apuane Regional Park promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking tranquility and adventure amidst nature's grandeur.
Alpi Apuane Regional Park
​Provinces: Lucca, Massa and Carrara

Region: Tuscany

Size: around 200 km²

Fly to: ​Pisa Airport - 1 hour 42 minutes by car (119 km)​​​​

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Il Buongustaio (Massa)
What are the most popular tours and activities in the Alpi Apuane Regional Park?
  • Mountain Trekking: Embark on guided mountain trekking tours in the Alpi Apuane Regional Park, exploring its rugged terrain, rocky peaks, and alpine landscapes. Visitors can hike along scenic trails, ascending to panoramic viewpoints and hidden valleys while observing native flora and fauna.
  • Caving Expeditions: Explore the underground wonders of the Alpi Apuane with guided caving expeditions. Visitors can delve into limestone caves and caverns, marveling at stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers while learning about the region's geological formations and karst landscape.
  • Rock Climbing Adventures: Experience the thrill of rock climbing in the Alpi Apuane, with guided climbing tours catering to climbers of all levels. Visitors can ascend vertical rock faces, cliffs, and crags, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys while testing their climbing skills and endurance.
  • Cultural and Historical Tours: Discover the cultural and historical heritage of the Alpi Apuane with guided tours of its ancient villages, medieval fortresses, and archaeological sites. Visitors can explore picturesque towns such as Carrara, Pietrasanta, and Massa, admiring architectural landmarks, art galleries, and museums showcasing the region's rich history and artistic legacy.
  • Botanical and Wildlife Excursions: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Alpi Apuane with botanical and wildlife excursions. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, including beech forests, mountain meadows, and alpine lakes, while observing rare plant species and endemic wildlife such as chamois, ibex, and golden eagles.
  • Photography Workshops: Capture the stunning landscapes and unique beauty of the Alpi Apuane with photography workshops led by professional photographers. Visitors can learn techniques for landscape photography, wildlife photography, and night sky photography while exploring the park's scenic vistas and natural wonders.
Where should I eat in the Alpi Apuane Regional Park?
  • Ristorante La Torre di Valdottavo: Located in Valdottavo, this restaurant offers traditional Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients.
  • Ristorante Alpino di Lucca: Situated in the heart of the Apuan Alps, this restaurant specializes in mountain cuisine, including hearty soups, grilled meats, and homemade pastas.
  • Ristorante da Giomo: Nestled in the town of Fabbriche di Vallico, this family-run restaurant serves delicious dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Ristorante La Lanterna: Located in Fornovolasco, this cozy restaurant offers a rustic atmosphere and serves traditional Garfagnana cuisine, such as chestnut flour dishes and wild game.
  • Ristorante Da Ginone: Situated in the village of Levigliani, this restaurant specializes in dishes made from locally foraged mushrooms, truffles, and herbs, offering a true taste of the Apuan Alps.

Alpi  Apuane  Regional  Park​  Gallery

What are the best places to stay in the Alpi Apuane Regional Park?
  • Albergo Pietrasanta (Pietrasanta): This charming hotel is located in the heart of Pietrasanta, known for its art galleries and marble workshops. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and easy access to hiking trails in the Alpi Apuane.
  • Locanda del Borgo (Fosdinovo): Set in a historic building in the medieval village of Fosdinovo, this cozy inn offers comfortable rooms with rustic decor. Guests can enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine at the on-site restaurant and explore the surrounding countryside.
  • Hotel Villa Tiziana (Forte dei Marmi): Situated in the coastal town of Forte dei Marmi, this elegant hotel offers luxurious accommodations, a swimming pool, and a wellness center. Guests can easily access the Alpi Apuane for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Villa la Bianca (Montignoso): Nestled in the hills overlooking the Ligurian Sea, this charming villa offers spacious apartments surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy panoramic views, and explore the nearby Apuan Alps.
  • La Fattoria di Nonna Eugenia (Massa): Located in the countryside near Massa, this agriturismo offers comfortable rooms and apartments in a restored farmhouse. Guests can enjoy homemade meals made with local ingredients, relax in the garden, and explore the nearby national park.
What's the closest airport to the Alpi Apuane Regional Park?
Pisa International Airport (PSA):

  • Pisa Airport is the nearest major airport to the Alpi Apuane Regional Park.
  • From the airport, you can rent a car or take public transportation to reach the park. The journey by car takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your exact destination within the park.

Florence Airport (FLR):

  • Florence Airport is another option, although it's a bit farther from the Alpi Apuane Regional Park compared to Pisa Airport.
  • Like Pisa Airport, you can rent a car at Florence Airport and drive to the park.
What are the main train stations in the Alpi Apuane Regional Park?
Viareggio Train Station:

  • Viareggio is a coastal town near the Alpi Apuane Regional Park, and its train station is served by regional and Intercity trains.
  • From Viareggio, you can take a bus or taxi to reach various entry points or trailheads within the park.

Massa Centro Train Station:

  • Massa Centro is closer to the Alpi Apuane Regional Park than Viareggio, but it's a smaller station with fewer train services.
  • From Massa Centro, you may need to take a taxi or local bus to reach the park.
How do you get to the Alpi Apuane Regional Park by car?
​Driving Directions:
​
  • If you're driving from Pisa, you can take the A12 highway (Autostrada Azzurra) towards Genoa.
  • Exit the highway at the Massa exit and follow signs for the Alpi Apuane Regional Park or specific destinations within the park, such as Carrara or the Apuan Alps.
  • Alternatively, if you're driving from Florence, take the A11 highway towards Pisa.
  • Merge onto the A12 highway towards Genoa once you reach Pisa, and follow the same directions as mentioned above.
What private transfer options are there for the Alpi Apuane Regional Park?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Carrara takes around 50 minutes. 

If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
​
  • Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
  • Arrival date
  • Arrival time
  • Number of passengers
  • Destination (either town or specific hotel) 
​
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit the Alpi Apuane Regional Park?
  • Lucca: Lucca is a major city in Tuscany located near the Alpi Apuane Regional Park. You can find car rental agencies within the city center or at Lucca Railway Station.
  • Massa: Massa is a town situated close to the Alpi Apuane Regional Park and may have car rental options available.
  • Carrara: Carrara is another town located near the park and may offer car rental services.
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