Castiglione di Garfagnana
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Latest update: 29 February 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The charming town of Castiglione di Garfagnana is nestled in the Garfagnana region of Tuscany. It belongs to the province of Lucca and has a population of approximately 1,500 people.
The town is famous for its medieval architecture, including the Rocca Ariostesca fortress. It's popular with outdoor enthusiasts due to its proximity to the Apuan Alps and Apennine Mountains. |
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Castiglione di Garfagnana: a step back in time
Occupying an area amidst the scenic landscapes of Garfagnana, Castiglione di Garfagnana enchants visitors with its medieval charm and natural beauty. Explore the cobbled streets of the historic centre, where ancient stone buildings and picturesque squares evoke a sense of timeless allure. Admire the imposing Rocca Ariostesca, a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Discover the intricate details of the Church of San Pietro, adorned with exquisite artwork and architectural features. Nearby, the lush forests and rugged mountains of the Apuan Alps invite outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. Castiglione di Garfagnana promises an authentic Tuscan experience amidst stunning surroundings.
Discover the intricate details of the Church of San Pietro, adorned with exquisite artwork and architectural features. Nearby, the lush forests and rugged mountains of the Apuan Alps invite outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. Castiglione di Garfagnana promises an authentic Tuscan experience amidst stunning surroundings.
Comune di Castiglione di Garfagnana
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Province: Lucca
Region: Tuscany Population: 1,708 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 49 km² Elevation: 545 metres Close by: Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, Barga, Coreglia Antelminelli Recommended accommodation: B&B Il Casale delle Pianacce |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Gli Occhi Bruni delle Madonne (The Dark Eyes of the Madonnas)
Listing headline: Gli Occhi Bruni delle Madonne (The Dark Eyes of the Madonnas)
What are the best things to do in Castiglione di Garfagnana and the local area?
- Rocca di Castiglione: Explore the imposing Rocca di Castiglione, a medieval fortress that overlooks the town. Visitors can climb the ancient walls, explore the interior chambers, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Garfagnana valley and the Apuan Alps.
- Historic Centre: Wander through the charming historic center of Castiglione di Garfagnana, characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and quaint piazzas. Visitors can admire architectural highlights such as the Church of San Pietro and the Palazzo Comunale, and soak in the atmosphere of this picturesque Tuscan town.
- Adventure Park: Experience outdoor adventure at the nearby adventure park. Visitors can tackle treetop obstacle courses, zip lines, and climbing walls suitable for all ages and skill levels, offering thrills and challenges amidst the scenic beauty of the Garfagnana countryside.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails and nature reserves surrounding Castiglione di Garfagnana. Visitors can hike through chestnut forests, along river valleys, and up to panoramic viewpoints, enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty of the Tuscan landscape.
- Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Garfagnana cuisine at local restaurants and trattorias in Castiglione di Garfagnana. Visitors can savor dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including hearty soups, game meats, and artisanal cheeses, paired with regional wines from nearby vineyards.
- Medieval Festivals: Attend local festivals and events held in Castiglione di Garfagnana throughout the year, celebrating medieval traditions, music, and culture. Visitors can enjoy historical reenactments, street performances, and artisan markets, immersing themselves in the rich heritage of the region.
Where should I eat in Castiglione di Garfagnana?
- Ristorante Da Carlino: This family-run restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and delicious homemade dishes. Their menu features a variety of traditional Tuscan recipes, including hearty soups, fresh pasta dishes, and grilled meats. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Ristorante Il Vecchio Mulino: Located in a charming historic building, Il Vecchio Mulino offers a refined dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their menu showcases classic Tuscan flavors with a modern twist, and dishes are beautifully presented. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside while dining on the terrace during warmer months.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Il Pozzo: For authentic Italian pizza and pasta, head to Il Pozzo. This casual eatery serves up a variety of wood-fired pizzas with fresh toppings, as well as homemade pasta dishes and traditional desserts. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for families and groups.
- Trattoria da Vasco: This cozy trattoria offers a taste of Garfagnana's culinary heritage with its selection of rustic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. From homemade pasta to hearty meat dishes, the menu is full of comforting classics that highlight the flavors of the region. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a popular choice for both lunch and dinner.
- Osteria del Ponte: Situated near the Ponte della Maddalena, or Devil's Bridge, this charming osteria serves up traditional Tuscan fare in a picturesque setting. Diners can enjoy specialties such as wild boar stew, tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms, and grilled meats, all accompanied by a selection of local wines. The restaurant's outdoor terrace offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely meal.
Castiglione di Garfagnana Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Castiglione di Garfagnana?
- Hotel Ristorante La Lanterna: Located in Castiglione di Garfagnana, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the town's attractions. Guests can stay in cozy rooms, enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and explore the nearby historic sites.
- Agriturismo Il Melograno: Situated in the countryside near Castiglione di Garfagnana, Agriturismo Il Melograno offers peaceful accommodations in a renovated farmhouse. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade meals made with ingredients from the farm, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
- Albergo Ristorante Da Carlino: Located just outside Castiglione di Garfagnana, Albergo Ristorante Da Carlino offers comfortable accommodations in a traditional Tuscan inn. Guests can stay in cozy rooms, enjoy delicious meals at the hotel's restaurant, and explore the surrounding countryside.
- Agriturismo La Pieve: Situated in the countryside near Castiglione di Garfagnana, Agriturismo La Pieve offers tranquil accommodations in a restored farmhouse. Guests can stay in charming rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade breakfasts made with local ingredients, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
- Villa Belvedere: Located in the nearby town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, Villa Belvedere offers elegant accommodations with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Guests can stay in stylish rooms and suites, enjoy a complimentary breakfast served on the terrace, and explore the nearby medieval villages and natural parks.
What's the closest airport to Castiglione di Garfagnana?
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
Florence Airport (Peretola Airport):
- Located approximately 95 kilometers away from Castiglione di Garfagnana.
- From Pisa Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Castiglione di Garfagnana. The journey takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle service to Pisa Centrale Train Station and then continue by train to the nearest train station close to Castiglione di Garfagnana.
Florence Airport (Peretola Airport):
- Located approximately 135 kilometers away from Castiglione di Garfagnana.
- From Florence Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Castiglione di Garfagnana. The journey takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle service to Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station and then continue by train to the nearest train station close to Castiglione di Garfagnana.
What's the closest train station to Castiglione di Garfagnana?
Castelnuovo di Garfagnana Train Station:
- Located approximately 7 kilometers away from Castiglione di Garfagnana.
- Castelnuovo di Garfagnana Train Station is the nearest train station to Castiglione di Garfagnana.
- From the train station, you can take a taxi or local transportation to reach Castiglione di Garfagnana.
What private transfer options are there for Castiglione di Garfagnana?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Castiglione di Garfagnana takes around one hour 10 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
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 Castiglione di Garfagnana?
- Lucca: Lucca is a larger city located approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Castiglione di Garfagnana. You can find several car rental agencies in Lucca, both in the city center and possibly at Lucca's train station.
- Barga: Barga is a nearby town located approximately 25 kilometers southwest of Castiglione di Garfagnana. While smaller, it may have car rental options available.
- Pisa: Pisa is a larger city located approximately 85 kilometers southwest of Castiglione di Garfagnana. You can find numerous car rental agencies in Pisa, both in the city center and at Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei).
- Regional Airports: While there are no major airports very close to Castiglione di Garfagnana, you could also consider looking for rental options at airports such as Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei) or Florence Airport (Peretola), though they are further away.
