Fosdinovo
Latest page update: 18 September 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The picturesque village of Fosdinovo is located in northern Tuscany, in the province of Massa-Carrara. With a population of around 3,000 inhabitants, it is known for its medieval castle, Castello Malaspina, which overlooks the surrounding countryside.
Fosdinovo is also famous for its olive oil production and scenic hiking trails in the Apuan Alps. |
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Fosdinovo: steadfast in the Apuan Alps
Perched atop a rocky promontory in northern Tuscany, Fosdinovo captivates visitors with its medieval allure and panoramic vistas. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets of the historic village, where ancient stone buildings and fortified walls reveal centuries of history.
Admire the imposing Malaspina Castle, a medieval fortress that dominates the skyline and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, the Apuan Alps beckon with scenic hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor adventure. Indulge in authentic Tuscan cuisine at local trattorias, savoring the flavors of the region amidst the tranquil beauty of Fosdinovo's hilltop setting.
Admire the imposing Malaspina Castle, a medieval fortress that dominates the skyline and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, the Apuan Alps beckon with scenic hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor adventure. Indulge in authentic Tuscan cuisine at local trattorias, savoring the flavors of the region amidst the tranquil beauty of Fosdinovo's hilltop setting.
Comune di Fosdinovo
Province: Massa and Carrara
Region: Tuscany Population: 4,586 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 49 km² Elevation: 500 metres Close by: Ponzanello, Carrara, Massa, Marina di Carrara Recommended hotel: La Castellana |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Listed since: 2014
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
Listed since: 2014
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
What are the best things to do in Fosdinovo and the local area?
- Fosdinovo Castle: Explore the impressive Fosdinovo Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can admire the castle's well-preserved architecture, including its massive stone walls, towers, and inner courtyards, and enjoy guided tours to learn about its rich history as a noble residence and strategic stronghold.
- Cultural Events: Attend cultural events and exhibitions held at Fosdinovo Castle throughout the year, including art shows, historical reenactments, and music performances. Visitors can experience the castle's atmospheric surroundings while enjoying entertainment and learning about local traditions and heritage.
- Hiking Trails: Discover the scenic beauty of the surrounding Apuan Alps with hiking trails that wind through forests, mountain meadows, and rocky landscapes. Visitors can explore routes of varying difficulty levels, offering opportunities to spot wildlife, enjoy panoramic views, and experience the tranquility of nature.
- Wine and Food Tours: Experience Tuscan cuisine and wine culture with tours and tastings at local wineries and agriturismi near Fosdinovo. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, including Vermentino and Sangiovese, as well as enjoy traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as pecorino cheese, cured meats, and olive oil.
- Local Festivals: Attend local festivals and events held in Fosdinovo and nearby villages throughout the year, celebrating traditions, food, and cultural heritage. Visitors can participate in festivities such as the Festa di San Giovanni in June or the Sagra della Polenta in September, enjoying music, dancing, and delicious food.
- Beach Excursions: Take a short drive to the nearby coast to enjoy the beautiful beaches and coastal towns of the Ligurian Sea. Visitors can relax on sandy shores, swim in crystal-clear waters, and explore seaside villages such as Lerici and Portovenere, known for their colourful architecture and maritime charm.
Where should I eat in Fosdinovo?
- La Locanda dei Poeti: La Locanda dei Poeti is a charming restaurant located in the heart of Fosdinovo. It offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a focus on traditional Tuscan dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy specialties such as homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh seafood, along with a selection of fine wines from the region.
- Ristorante La Pietra Felice: Situated in a historic building with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Ristorante La Pietra Felice is known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant ambiance. The restaurant serves a variety of Tuscan specialties, including wild boar stew, ribollita (Tuscan bean soup), and bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine-style steak), all prepared with care and attention to detail.
- Ristorante Pizzeria La Brace: For those craving authentic Italian pizza, Ristorante Pizzeria La Brace is the place to go in Fosdinovo. This cozy eatery offers a wide selection of wood-fired pizzas with fresh toppings, as well as other classic Italian dishes such as pasta, risotto, and grilled meats. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike.
- Ristorante Osteria Antico Borgo: Nestled in the historic center of Fosdinovo, Ristorante Osteria Antico Borgo offers a taste of traditional Tuscan cuisine in a charming setting. The restaurant's menu features a variety of homemade pastas, seafood dishes, and hearty meat entrees, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine indoors in the cozy dining room or outdoors on the terrace with views of the medieval village.
- La Loggia del Sole: La Loggia del Sole is a family-run restaurant located just outside of Fosdinovo, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The restaurant specializes in traditional Tuscan fare, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and authentic flavors. Dishes such as tagliatelle al tartufo (truffle pasta), cinghiale (wild boar), and fritto misto (mixed fried seafood) are among the highlights of the menu.
Fosdinovo Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Fosdinovo?
- Albergo la Castellana: Located in the heart of Fosdinovo, Albergo la Castellana offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the town's attractions, including Fosdinovo Castle. The hotel features cozy rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a friendly atmosphere.
- Agriturismo Monteverde: Situated in the countryside near Fosdinovo, Agriturismo Monteverde offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Guests can stay in charming rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade meals made with organic ingredients from the farm, and relax in the outdoor swimming pool.
- La Locanda del Lupo: Located just outside Fosdinovo, La Locanda del Lupo is housed in a historic building and offers elegant accommodations with modern amenities. Guests can stay in stylish rooms, enjoy gourmet dining at the hotel's restaurant, and explore the nearby medieval villages and natural parks.
- Agriturismo Il Bardellino: Situated in the hills overlooking Fosdinovo, Agriturismo Il Bardellino offers cozy accommodations in a renovated farmhouse. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade breakfasts made with local ingredients, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
- B&B I Due Cipressi: Located in a tranquil area near Fosdinovo, B&B I Due Cipressi offers comfortable accommodations with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can stay in spacious rooms, enjoy a complimentary breakfast served in the dining room or on the terrace, and explore the nearby hiking trails and historic sites.
What's the closest airport to Fosdinovo?
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport:
- Located approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Fosdinovo.
- From Pisa Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Fosdinovo. The journey takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic.
- Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle service to reach Pisa Centrale Train Station and then continue by train to the nearest train station to Fosdinovo.
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport:
- Located approximately 125 kilometers northwest of Fosdinovo.
- From Genoa Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Fosdinovo. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and route.
What's the closest train station to Fosdinovo?
Aulla-Lunigiana Train Station:
- Located approximately 10 kilometers north of Fosdinovo.
- Aulla-Lunigiana Train Station is the nearest train station to Fosdinovo.
- From the train station, you can take a taxi or local transportation to reach Fosdinovo.
What private transfer options are there for Fosdinovo?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Fosdinovo takes around 55 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 Fosdinovo?
- Massa: Massa is a larger city located approximately 10 kilometers south of Fosdinovo. You can find several car rental agencies in Massa, both in the city center and possibly at Massa's train station.
- Carrara: Carrara is another nearby city, situated approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Fosdinovo. While smaller, it may also have car rental options available.
- La Spezia: La Spezia is a larger city located approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Fosdinovo. You can find numerous car rental agencies in La Spezia, both in the city center and at La Spezia Centrale train station.
- Regional Airports: While there are no major airports very close to Fosdinovo, you could also consider looking for rental options at airports such as Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei) or Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, though they are further away.