The Apuan Alps
The Apuan Alps are a mountain range in northern Tuscany, Italy. They are included between the valleys of the Serchio and Magra rivers, and, to the northwest, the Garfagnana and Lunigiana, with a total length of approximately 55 kilometers (34 mi).
The highest peak in the Apuan Alps is Monte Pisanino, which is 1,946 meters (6,385 ft) tall. Other notable peaks include Monte Tambura, Monte Cavallo, Pania della Croce, Monte Grondìlice, Monte Contrario, Pizzo d’Uccello, and Monte Sumbra.
The Apuan Alps are known for their white marble, which has been quarried for centuries. The marble from the Apuan Alps is used to create sculptures, buildings, and other works of art.
In addition to their marble quarries, the Apuan Alps are also home to a variety of other natural features, including lakes, caves, and forests. There are also a number of hiking trails in the Apuan Alps, which offer stunning views of the mountains and surrounding countrys
Some of the things you can see and do
Visit the marble quarries: The marble quarries in the Apuan Alps are a fascinating sight to see. You can take a tour of a quarry to learn about how marble is extracted and processed.
Hike in the mountains: There are a number of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. You can hike to the top of Monte Pisanino for stunning views of the surrounding area.
Monte Pisanino
Visit the lakes: The Apuan Alps are home to a number of lakes, including Lago di Vagli, Lago di Gramolazzo, and Lago di Isola Santa. These lakes are a great place to go for a swim, go boating, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Explore the caves: It is also home to a number of caves, including Grotta del Vento, Grotta Gigante di Equi Terme, and Grotta del Romito. These caves are a fascinating place to visit, and you can take a guided tour to learn about their history and geology.
Visit the towns and villages: The Apuan Alps are home to a number of charming towns and villages, including Carrara, Massa, Pietrasanta, and Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. These towns are a great place to visit to experience local culture and cuisine.
The Apuan Alps are a beautiful and fascinating place to visit. There is something for everyone, whether you are interested in hiking, biking, swimming, caving, or simply exploring the towns and villages.
Tips for getting to there
The nearest airports are Pisa Airport and Florence Airport. From either airport, you can take a train or bus to one of the towns in the Apuan Alps.
The Apuan Alps are also accessible by car. The main roads through the mountains are the A11 autostrada and the SS12 road.
There are a number of parking areas in the destination, but it is important to note that parking can be limited during peak season.
Places to stay in the Apuan Alps, from hotels and B&Bs to camping grounds and mountain huts
Castello dell’Aquila: This 14th-century castle hotel is located in the town of Gragnola, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Castello dell’Aquila
Hotel Ristorante PINTADERA: This hotel and restaurant is located in the town of Massa, and it is a great option for those looking for a traditional Tuscan experience.
Rifugio Orto di Donna: This mountain hut is located in the heart of the Apuan Alps, and it is a great place to stay for those looking for a more rustic experience.
Rifugio Guido Donegani: This hut is also located in the heart of the mountains, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Restaurants serving everything from traditional Tuscan cuisine to international fare
La Griglia: This restaurant in Carrara serves up delicious grilled meats and seafood.
La Bottega del Buongustaio: This restaurant in Pietrasanta offers a mix of traditional and modern Tuscan cuisine.
Ristorante Il Margutta: This restaurant in Massa offers a wide variety of pasta dishes, as well as pizzas and grilled meats.
Trattoria La Cucina di Mamma Teresa: This traditional Tuscan trattoria in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana is a great place to try local dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale (pasta with wild boar sauce).
