This itinerary takes you to the heart of the Apuan Alps Park, highlighting its points of interest. You’ll pass by lakes, small villages, churches and even a quaint museum. Some parts of the Apuane Alps Park date back to the ice age; cross vast alpine meadows, filling your lungs with fresh air, while pondering all those who have crossed these pastures throughout the ages.
Along the road to Vagli, you'll find an artificial lake that conceals the town of Fabbriche in the depths of its water; every 10 years when the lake is emptied the ancient village comes back to life. Don't miss the parish of San Regolo, the Museum of Casa Abrami and the romanesque Church of Sant'Agostino dating from 12th century.
After you've headed up to Vagli di Sopra, you'll arrive at Campocatino, the old alpine pasture which has been classified as a LIPU oasis; LIPU is an association for the protection of wildlife, birds and biodiversity. An easy trail passes through this alpine meadow that has an unusual 'shell' form that dates back to its ice-age origins. After about 30 minutes on foot you'll arrive at the Hermitage of San Viano. From Campocatino, head down to Gorfigliano and Gramolazzo where Monte Pisanino, the highest of the Apuan chain, is mirrored in the green water of the artificial lake.
From here, head up towards Minuccianowhere you'll find, before the tunnel, a street which heads into the Seranaia Valley and the Orto di Donna. Lined with the summits of Pisanino, Cavallo, Contrario, Grondilice and Pizzo d'Uccello, this is the most alpine valley of all of the Garfagnana. The Orto di Donna quarry holds some of the precious marble that has made the Apuane Alps famous throughout the world.
