Unveiling the Hidden Treasures of Lunigiana: A Tuscan Adventure Awaits

Nestled between Liguria and Tuscany, Lunigiana is a historical region of Italy that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Named after the ancient Roman city of Luni, located near the mouth of the Magra River, Lunigiana is a region that has been shaped by centuries of history.

The region is characterized by its unique geographical location, straddling the administrative boundaries of Liguria and Tuscany. Its territory corresponds to the basin of the Magra River and its tributaries. Although its borders are not precise, they can be understood within a line that, starting from the coast near Moneglia and crossing the Passo del Bracco, reaches that of Cento Croci, then follows the Apennine watershed to the Passo del Cerreto and Monte Belfiore, and descends back to the sea, south of Montignoso, between Massa and Pietrasanta.

1. Embark on a Culinary Cycling Journey in Lunigiana

Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes of Lunigiana, a hidden gem nestled between Tuscany and Liguria, as you pedal through its verdant valleys and charming villages. This isn’t your ordinary cycling tour; it’s a gastronomic adventure that marries the thrill of exploration with the joy of tasting authentic Italian cuisine. With an e-bike, you’ll navigate the region’s diverse terrain with ease, pausing at local eateries to savor the flavors of Lunigiana’s culinary heritage. From artisanal cheeses to traditional pastries, your taste buds are in for a treat. This is a unique opportunity to experience Italy’s la dolce vita in its most authentic form.

2. Step Back in Time with Lunigiana’s Majestic Castles

Lunigiana, often referred to as the “Land of a Hundred Castles,” is a paradise for history enthusiasts and romantics alike. Embark on a journey through time as you explore the region’s well-preserved castles, each with its own unique story to tell. From the hilltop Castello di Lusuolo offering panoramic views of the Magra Valley, to the imposing Castello di Monti di Licciana Nardi and the fortified Castello di Bastia, these architectural marvels will transport you to a bygone era of knights and nobility. Many of these castles offer guided tours, providing fascinating insights into the region’s rich history and culture.

3. Discover the Fortezza della Brunella – Aulla’s Crown Jewel

Perched on a hill overlooking the town of Aulla, the Fortezza della Brunella is a testament to Lunigiana’s strategic importance in the past. This imposing fortress, now a museum, offers a deep dive into the region’s geological and natural history. As you wander through its ancient corridors, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys – a sight that’s worth the visit alone. The fortress is a symbol of Lunigiana’s resilience and a must-visit for any traveler.

4. Dive into Adventure at Stretti di Giaredo

For thrill-seekers and nature lovers, the Stretti di Giaredo offers an unforgettable adventure. This stunning natural canyon, with its towering walls and crystal-clear waters, is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Trek through the rugged terrain, swim in the refreshing waters, and marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder. With a guide by your side and all equipment provided, all you need to bring is your spirit of adventure and a love for the great outdoors.

5. Experience the Grandeur of Villa Dosi

Step into a world of elegance and grandeur at Villa Dosi, a stunning Baroque villa near the historic center of Pontremoli. This architectural masterpiece, with its beautifully preserved frescoes and intricate stucco work, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Italian nobility. A guided tour of the villa is not just a walk through its lavish rooms; it’s a journey through the region’s artistic and cultural history. Don’t miss the chance to experience this piece of Lunigiana’s heritage.

6. Live a Day in the Life of a Lunigiana Shepherd

Experience the simple pleasures of rural life in Lunigiana by spending a day with a local shepherd. This unique experience offers a rare insight into the traditional pastoral lifestyle that has shaped the region’s culture and cuisine. You’ll learn about the art of sheep rearing, cheese making, and perhaps even hear a tale or two about the shepherd’s life. This is a perfect activity for families, offering children a fun and educational experience.

7. Savor the Flavors of Caseificio Sociale di Borgotaro

Cheese lovers, rejoice! A visit to the Caseificio Sociale di Borgotaro is a must when in Lunigiana. This renowned Parmesan cheese cheese factory offers guided tours that take you through the fascinating process of cheese-making, from the milking of the cows to the aging of the cheese. The highlight of the tour is, of course, the tasting session where you can sample some of the factory’s finest parmigiano reggiano. This is a unique opportunity to taste the flavors of Lunigiana and learn about the region’s dairy traditions.

Lunigiana, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine, is a destination that captivates and enchants. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or simply a traveler in search of authentic experiences, Lunigiana has something to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the hidden treasures of this Italian gem.

Discover the Royal Charm of Lunigiana, Tuscany’s Hidden Gem

Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Lunigiana, the northernmost tip of Tuscany, where time seems to have paused and the landscape is as mesmerizing as a Renaissance masterpiece. Nestled between the rugged Apennine Mountains and the sparkling Ligurian Sea, Lunigiana is a region rich in history, overflowing with natural splendor, and brimming with gastronomic delights. Amidst its lush landscapes and medieval hamlets, two particularly captivating accommodations stand out: Il Convento Di Casola and La Fortezza, each offering a unique and royal experience.

Il Convento

In the heart of the quaint hilltop village of Casola in Lunigiana, a place where ancient stone houses cluster around a medieval castle and time-honored traditions are cherished, you will discover Il Convento Di Casola. This bed & breakfast, situated in a former convent, flawlessly blends historical allure with modern comfort. The location is ideal for the adventurous explorer, with the Museo territoriale dell’alta valle Aulella Museum and the Chiesa di Santa Felicita Museum just a short walk away.

Each of the seven rooms at Il Convento Di Casola is a royal sanctuary, with some offering a king-size bed and others featuring single beds for flexibility. The accommodations are equipped with a shower, heating, and certain rooms also boast a cozy fireplace or balcony. Wake up each morning to a delightful continental breakfast before setting off to explore the picturesque surroundings. The staff, proficient in English, German, Spanish, Italian, and Norwegian, are ready to assist, making your stay even more comfortable and convenient.

La fortezza

For a truly unique experience, venture further into Lunigiana to La Fortezza, a medieval fortress transformed into a dreamy retreat by Annette Joseph, an American author and stylist. La Fortezza is more than just an accommodation; it’s a creative space that reflects the relaxed, bohemian spirit of Lunigiana itself.

Here, six guest rooms await, each boasting its own personality and bathroom. The decor, described as “monastic bohemian chic”, is a testament to La Fortezza’s history and charm. The guest lounge is the perfect place to unwind with a book, or you could relax by the pool under a large pergola. At La Fortezza, you can even try your hand at bocce ball, a popular Italian game, while savoring a Gin & Tonic.

Montagna Verde

Nestled in the heart of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, Montagna Verde is an agritourism gem that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and gastronomy. Housed in a meticulously restored 11th-century watchtower, this charming retreat offers breathtaking views of the Apuan Alps and is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park.

Each room at Montagna Verde is a testament to the region’s rich history, offering a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. The on-site restaurant, located in the historic tower, serves traditional Lunigiana cuisine, with recipes passed down through generations and prepared using locally sourced ingredients.

Montagna Verde is not just a place to rest and eat; it’s an experience. Guests can explore the organic gardens, learn about the local biodiversity at the educational farm, or simply relax by the pool-terrace. For the more adventurous, the surrounding area offers numerous hiking and biking trails.

As featured on the Italian TV show “4 Ristoranti”, Montagna Verde is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Tuscany’s Lunigiana region. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast, Montagna Verde promises an unforgettable experience.

The local region is ripe for exploration. Just a short drive away from Casola is Equi Terme, renowned for its impressive caves and thermal springs. This small town is a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs, with its rich geological wonders and fascinating archaeological museum. The region is also traversed by the Via Francigena, an ancient road that pilgrims used to travel from France to Rome. This route passes through the towns of Pontremoli and Aulla, and along the way, you can visit the museum of the stele, home to enchanting stone sculptures that still leave many questions unanswered about the people who left them behind[^1^].

Whether you’re a king, queen, or just someone seeking a taste of the regal life, Il Convento Di Casola and La Fortezza in Lunigiana, Tuscany offer the perfect retreat. Here, you will find more than just luxury accommodations; you will discover an authentic slice of Italy that touches the soul and ignites the senses. Come and experience the magic of Lunigiana for yourself.

[^1^]: Discover Tuscany – Lunigiana

References:

Truffle Hunts around Florence and Siena

Cristiano Savini will be the guide of this special report. 

Truffle hunter and his dog
Truffle hunts in Tuscany

Today’s mission is the research of truffles in Tuscany. To be more precise, we are in the province of Pisa, in a green area that stretches from the inland of Tuscany to the hills of Chianti. It’s called Boscone di Forcoli, it’s an enchanting and silent wood where you won’t find many tourists.
Get on your boots and a pair of comfortable trousers, and you will be ready to enter this magic place with Cristiano, Luca, an expert truffle seller and Giotto, the uncontested four-legged star of the company.

The Job of the Truffle Hunter.

To better know Cristiano Savini and his job, first of all he tells us that he knows this wood by heart, and that in 2007 he found exactly here, a white truffle that incredibly weighted 1.450 Kg.
When he doesn’t travel by reason of work, he wakes up at 3 at night, as well as the 650 truffle sellers who have joined his family-run business, well known all over the world.

He goes on saying that the first one who understood the value of this special but underestimated tuber was his grandfather Zelindo, in the 60s. He used to wander on a Vespa, which their grandchildren still treasure, looking for the truffles-diggers of his town but soon he started to travel in the direction of Milan and the Piemonte region with his beloved tubers and the commerce of truffles finally becomes his own job.
Savini tells us that the White truffle, Bianco is typical of winter; then in March we find the so called Bianchetto (or marzuolo) and finally we have the Black one, called Nero Liscio and the Scorzone. It clearly means that we can find fresh truffles all the year and that, by reservation, we can try an amazing truffle experience like this one.
In fact, while we move forward, many treasures of the wood, if we can call the truffles like that, comes out with their inebriating fragrances that changes according to the type of ground where they’re hidden.
The fragrances are very strong and intense and they have the power of transporting you through space and time.

As we said before, Giotto is the protagonist of this research of truffles and it’s a crossbred, but Cristiano explains us that the perfect breed for this job is the Lagotto Romagnolo. However, what’s really important is to personally train and educate the dog, so every dog with short paws, great musculature and a pronounced nose will be perfect.
Furthermore, it’s essential to remember that for them it’s not a job but just a game!

Once we’re back we discover that seven companies are there to spend a day of sharing; and they’re not there by chance; they are seven producers, precisely Forcoli, Ursini, Biscottificio MatteiDeseo, Pasta Mancini, Il Borgo del Balsamico, La Via del Tè, La Nicchia di Pantelleria who, together with Salvini Tartufi, have created a group of Unique friends producers who have two main targets in common: the high quality of the products and the novelty of the image.

Truffle hunting Experiences in Italy For you too.

Experiences like this makes you understand that we’re blessed to be in Italy. If you are looking for a truffle hunting experience in Italy you can also have a look at this page. Contact us if you would like to arrange a truffle hunting experience during your stay in Florence or Sienna.

Lucca Guided Tour with Food Experience

Silvia is a reputable and licensed tour guide with years of extensive industry experience. As your premier tour guide for the Tuscany Region, she has a foreign language degree and speaks both Italian and English fluently. With more than 15 years if the tourism industry, she has organized countless tours of her hometown for tourists, visitors, and locals alike. From historic sites and architecture to the best in old town shops and jewelry venues, this amazing guide will truly show you the magic and mystique of Lucca. As a world renowned and popular tourist attraction, Lucca is blanketed with breathtaking scenery and picturesque landscapes at every turn. Explore the wonders of Lucca, which features medieval churches, art museums, Renaissance walls, and ancient palaces, that capture the true allure and essence of old Italy.

Lucca
Lucca is one of the most charming towns in Tuscany – source

 

The Lucca Tour

As part of your guided tour, you will embrace the beauty of Lucca with its enchanting villages, parks, hamlets, and the resort town of Viareggio. The coastal region of Versilia is also a must see for those that love the ocean and stunning mountain views. After a day of touring, enjoy the hottest nightlife spots with world class cuisine, wine, and the perfect blend of traditional and contemporary music.

Lucca Wine and Fine Gourmet Tours

If you love to sample fine wines and delicious Italian delicacies and entrees, your guide will connect you to the finest restaurants and outdoor cafes in the region. Dazzle your taste buds with the best in Torta Derbi, Buccellato, Cioccolato, along with traditional olive oil and salami specialties. This is a must for fine gourmet connoisseurs and aficionados that want to sample and taste the best in Italian cuisine. While the aromas and scents will captive your soul, you will also love the historic churches, monuments, architecture, and burgeoning art scene that Lucca offers.

Lucca Gardens

The guide will also take you on a walking tour of the regionally renowned Botanical Garden. The Palazzo Pfanner garden and Guinigi tower are also situated within long and woody city walls that cannot be missed. The Lucca Gardens tour showcases some of the finest frescoes in the region that exemplify the historic traditions and culture of this fascinating city. From elegant floral arrangements to lavish shopping venues, Lucca welcomes you and your loved ones with open arms

css.php