Exploring ancient stone buildings used until the last century for butter and dairy production
In the Santa Brigida Protected Natural Area, in the municipality of Pontassieve, is a truly impressive walking path: the Burraie Trail.
This trekking route features 10 miles or 16 kilometers surrounded by greenery, with an elevation gain of some 3117 feet (950 meters).
Especially interesting is the name, harking back to ancient “burraie” used until the last century for the production of butter and other dairy products. The small, low stone buildings are nestled in dense forest, often near springs or streams, necessary to keep temperatures cool.
This trail thus combines naturalistic aspects with anthropomorphic and social factors, evidence of crafts that no longer exist today.
The trail passes through the Santa Brigida Protected Natural Area, Poggio Ripaghera and Valle dell’Inferno.
The trail starts from the Santa Brigida cemetery, just outside the village, where you can park and where there is an explanatory sign.