Garfagnana
|
Latest page update: 28 November 2024
|
By Dion Protani
|
|
The Garfagnana region is situated in northern Tuscany, primarily within the province of Lucca. Known for its rugged Apuan Alps and verdant valleys, it offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities like hiking and mountain biking.
Apart from its dishes featuring chestnuts and porcini mushrooms it offers historic towns such as Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. |
|
Related links
Garfagnana: in the heart of the Apuan Alps
Located in the northern reaches of Tuscany, the Garfagnana region beckons with its rugged landscapes and charming villages. The striking Apuan Alps provide a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
History comes alive in the medieval fortress town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and the hilltop village of Barga, known for its artistic heritage. Visitors can also explore the stunning Grotta del Vento cave system and indulge in the region's culinary delights, including hearty soups, cured meats, and locally produced cheeses. Garfagnana offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and gastronomy.
History comes alive in the medieval fortress town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and the hilltop village of Barga, known for its artistic heritage. Visitors can also explore the stunning Grotta del Vento cave system and indulge in the region's culinary delights, including hearty soups, cured meats, and locally produced cheeses. Garfagnana offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and gastronomy.
Garfagnana
|
Province: Lucca
Region: Tuscany Size: 620 km² Highlights: Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, Barga, Castiglione Fly to: Pisa Airport - 1 hour 17 minutes by car (75 km) Recommended hotel: Villa Moorings (Barga) |
What are the most popular tours and activities in the Garfagnana?
- Apuan Alps Exploration: Discover the natural beauty of Garfagnana with guided tours of the Apuan Alps. Visitors can explore rugged mountain landscapes, hike through lush forests, and discover hidden waterfalls and mountain lakes, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Ligurian Sea.
- Medieval Villages Visits: Explore the picturesque medieval villages of Garfagnana with guided tours of their historic streets and architectural landmarks. Visitors can wander through charming towns such as Barga, Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, and Coreglia Antelminelli, admire ancient churches, towers, and palaces, and learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
- Caving and Speleology: Embark on underground adventures in Garfagnana's limestone caves and caverns with guided caving and speleology tours. Visitors can explore fascinating geological formations, underground rivers, and stalactite-stalagmite formations, while learning about the region's karst landscape and cave ecosystems.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy outdoor activities in the scenic landscapes of Garfagnana, including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Guided excursions take visitors through diverse terrain, from wooded valleys and meandering rivers to rugged peaks and alpine meadows, providing opportunities to spot wildlife, discover ancient ruins, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Apuan Alps and the Serchio Valley.
- Gastronomic Experiences: Indulge in the flavors of Garfagnana with gastronomic experiences that showcase the region's culinary traditions. Visitors can sample local specialties such as spelt soup, chestnut flour polenta, and porchetta (roast pork), as well as artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and honey, while dining in traditional trattorias, agriturismi, and mountain rifugi, and learning about Garfagnana's farm-to-table cuisine and Slow Food philosophy.
- Historical and Cultural Tours: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Garfagnana with guided tours of its historic landmarks and museums. Visitors can visit medieval fortresses such as the Castelvecchio di Barga and the Castello di Verrucole, explore archaeological sites such as the Monte Tambura necropolis, and discover local art and craftsmanship in museums and artisan workshops throughout the region.
Where should I eat in the Garfagnana?
- Ristorante Il Pozzo: Located in the town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, this restaurant offers traditional Tuscan cuisine with a focus on local specialties such as farro soup, spelt-based dishes, and roasted meats. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular choice among visitors.
- Ristorante da Carlino: Situated in the charming village of Barga, this family-run restaurant serves authentic Garfagnana cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Dishes to try include potato tortelli, wild boar stew, and chestnut flour desserts.
- Ristorante La Lanterna: Located in the historic center of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, this restaurant offers a menu featuring traditional Garfagnana recipes alongside classic Italian dishes. The warm and welcoming ambiance, combined with delicious food, makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Ristorante Il Ponte: Situated in the village of Camporgiano, this restaurant overlooks the Serchio River and offers a picturesque setting for enjoying traditional Garfagnana cuisine. Dishes to sample include spelt salad, mushroom risotto, and roasted pork with chestnuts.
- Trattoria da Giuseppe: This cozy trattoria in the town of Pieve Fosciana is known for its hearty Garfagnana fare, including homemade pastas, cured meats, and locally sourced cheeses. The rustic atmosphere and friendly service add to the dining experience.
Garfagnana Gallery
What are the best places to stay in the Garfagnana?
- Hotel Ristorante La Lanterna (Castelnuovo di Garfagnana): This family-run hotel offers comfortable accommodations and traditional Tuscan cuisine. Located in the heart of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, guests can explore the historic town center and enjoy easy access to nearby hiking trails and natural attractions.
- Agriturismo Il Melograno (Barga): Situated in the picturesque countryside near Barga, this agriturismo offers cozy rooms and apartments surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy homemade meals made with local ingredients, and explore the charming hilltop town of Barga.
- Hotel Ristorante da Carlino (Piazza al Serchio): This charming hotel is located in the historic center of Piazza al Serchio, a picturesque town in the Garfagnana region. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms, dine at the on-site restaurant serving traditional Garfagnana cuisine, and explore the nearby medieval villages and natural parks.
- Agriturismo Il Castagneto (Coreglia Antelminelli): Set in a restored farmhouse surrounded by chestnut trees, this agriturismo offers rustic-chic accommodations and panoramic views of the Garfagnana Valley. Guests can enjoy homemade meals made with fresh local ingredients, relax in the garden, and explore the nearby medieval village of Coreglia Antelminelli.
- Villa Moorings (Bagni di Lucca): This elegant villa offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Guests can relax in beautifully appointed rooms, swim in the outdoor pool, and unwind in the lush garden. The villa is located near the thermal baths of Bagni di Lucca and offers easy access to hiking trails and cultural attractions in the area.
What's the closest airport to the Garfagnana?
Pisa International Airport (PSA):
Florence Airport (FLR):
- Pisa Airport is the nearest major airport serving the Garfagnana region.
- From Pisa Airport, you can reach the Garfagnana area by rental car, taxi, or a combination of train and bus.
Florence Airport (FLR):
- Florence Airport, also known as Peretola Airport, is located near Florence, the capital of Tuscany.
- While not as close as Pisa Airport, Florence Airport provides another option for travelers visiting the Garfagnana region.
What are the main train stations in the Garfagnana?
Lucca Train Station:
Castelnuovo di Garfagnana Train Station:
- Lucca is a historic city located southwest of the Garfagnana region.
- Lucca Train Station offers regional train services, and from here, you can continue your journey to the Garfagnana area by bus or car.
Castelnuovo di Garfagnana Train Station:
- Castelnuovo di Garfagnana is a town located within the Garfagnana region.
- The train station in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana provides regional train services connecting the area with other towns and cities in Tuscany.
How do you get to the Garfagnana by car?
Driving Directions:
- From Pisa Airport, take the SS12 highway towards Lucca and continue towards the Garfagnana region.
- Alternatively, if arriving from Florence Airport, head northwest towards Lucca and then follow signs to the Garfagnana area.
What private transfer options are there for the Garfagnana?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Castelnuovo di Garfagnana takes around one hour 15 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 the Garfagnana?
- Castelnuovo di Garfagnana: Castelnuovo di Garfagnana is one of the main towns in the Garfagnana region and may have car rental agencies available. You can check with local rental companies or search online for options.
- Lucca: Lucca is a larger city located outside the Garfagnana region but offers more options for car rental agencies, including international chains. It's within driving distance of the Garfagnana region and provides convenient access to rental services.
- Pisa: Pisa is another nearby city with car rental options available at Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport) and within the city center. While not within the Garfagnana region itself, Pisa is within driving distance and offers a wider selection of rental options.
