In winter, the Garfagnana and the Mid Serchio Valley is adorned in white, transforming into a little paradise for snow lovers. An area nestled between the Apuan Alps and the Apennines, where the mountains become an expansive, family-friendly nature park that is quiet, safe and rich in outdoor experiences.
The Garfagnana Ski Area offers easy slopes, ski school and large areas dedicated to children, perfect for getting comfortable on skis, playing in the snow or experiencing the thrill of sledding and bobsledding.
In Careggine, in the heart of the Apuan Alps Park, there are 2 ski slopes in Formica, then another 3 slopes and a ski school in Vianova, from where 3 loop trails for snowshoeing also start. These are: • Green (easy) at about 2.2 miles or 3.5 kilometers, ideal for beginners and families • Blue (medium) at about 2.5 miles or 4.5 kilometers • Red (expert) at about 5 miles or 8 kilometers.
At the Casone di Profecchia, in the municipality of Castiglione di Garfagnana, on the Apennine side, there are ski schools and more challenging slopes, along with evocative Nordic skiing routes that pass through pristine wooded areas, allowing visitors to admire nature, its sounds and the characteristic scents of these mountains.
Guide-organized snowshoe hikes and walks in snowy forests offer a slow and engaging way to discover the area, suitable for all ages. These experiences are possible at the Pradarena Pass, Carpinelli Pass, San Pellegrino in Alpe, Orecchiella Park, Foce Pass in Giovo and the locality of la Vetricia at the Rifugio Santi.
Garfagnana and the Mid Serchio Valley is also synonymous with hospitality with rifugi, agriturismi and family-friendly facilities providing comfort, warmth and excellent local cuisine. After a day in the great outdoors, the whole family can relax in front of a lit fireplace, enjoying local dishes such as Zuppa di Farro (spelt soup) and Polenta di Castagne (chestnut polenta).
Alpine huts, such as the Rifugio Rossi in Pania della Croce, Rifugio Casentini in Bagni di Lucca and Rifugio Burigone in San Pellegrino in Alpe, are mainly open on weekends and can be reached with appropriate winter gear.