Garfagnana and the Serchio Valley are lands rich in forests, water and clean air: an ideal habitat for the growth of mushrooms. Mushroom picking has not only been a passion here for centuries, but it is a true ritual linked to the local culture and cuisine. An area conducive to biodiversity: the mountain climate and variety of environments - chestnut groves, beechwoods and mixed forests - provide perfect conditions for the growth of precious species.
Some of the most sought-after mushrooms include: the porcino (Boletus edulis and related), undisputed king of Garfagnana cuisine and popular for its intense fragrance and firm consistency; the Caesar's mushroom (Amanita caesarea), fine quality with a delicate flavor; the golden chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius), ideal for sauces and side dishes; the parasol mushroom (Macrolepiota procera), excellent grilled or breaded.
Contents
1.
A food tradition
2.
Year-round experiences
3.
Sustainable mushroom picking and respect for the forest
A food tradition
In Garfagnana and the Serchio Valley, mushrooms are not only picked, but are also the protagonists of numerous typical dishes. At the right time of year, in restaurants, farm holiday hotels and lodges, you can find tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms, rustic soups, polenta with mushrooms cooked in olive oil, parsley and garlic and even fried and roasted mushrooms or mushrooms in salads: each recipe tells you about an authentic connection between nature and cuisine.
There is no shortage of dedicated festivals and fairs that, in the fall months, particularly October and November, bring villages and towns to life, offering visitors the opportunity to taste local specialties, such as the Fiera d’Autunno in Castiglione di Garfagnana, Autunno Apuano in Careggine or tasting itineraries like Sentieri e Sapori in Sillico.
Year-round experiences
The "Mushroom Trail" begins by setting off from the historic center of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, exiting through Porta Miccia.
In addition to mushroom picking, the valley offers walks, hikes and nature trails that allow people to discover the places where mushrooms grow. Among the most popular MTB trails, the Mushroom Trail is dedicated to this precious product of the undergrowth.
Sustainable mushroom picking and respect for the forest
Mushroom picking is regulated through permits and precise rules, in order to protect the environment and the safety of the mushroom pickers. Responsible behavior is key to preserving the balance in the forest and ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this natural wealth. Caution is advised: do not pick mushrooms you are unfamiliar with and only eat them after inspection by an ASL (Local Health Authority) mycologist. Here are the rules for mushroom picking: tourism.garfagnana.eu.
Lastly... never ask the Garfagnana locals where mushrooms grow - they will always send you to the wrong place!
