Scattered around the area are historic rural towns, each with it’s own characteristics and charm. Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and Barga are among the best known, but others are just as charming. Excellent for amateur photographers as the quiet towns provide great photographic opportunities.
The Garfagnana Region is one of the best kept secrets of Italy. This beautiful green valley in Northern Tuscany offers a relaxing holiday away from the masses. Picturesque villages all around and dead cheap food in high quality, family-owned restaurants. The beaches of Forte dei Marmi and Viarregio as well as the historic cities Lucca, Pisa and Florence are all accessible on day trips.
Historic Rural Towns
PICTURESQUE VILLAGES
A GREEN OASIS
NATURAL BEAUTY
The moderate climate makes this one of the greenest areas in this region. Combined with the altitude, the temperature in summer is more comfortable than in many other places in Italy, and most hot days end with a refreshing mountain breeze. The area provides excellent opportunities for walks and hikes, both in summer as well as the other seasons.
Three famous Tuscan cities
City Trips
Lucca, Pisa and Florence can all be done in day trips. Stay away from the masses in this idylic region and visit the cities when it suits you. Lucca is just 45 minutes away and can be reached by train also. Pisa takes 1 hour and 20 minutes, Florence just under 2 hours. If that’s too far, it is ideal to combine it on the way to or from the villa.
Sun, Sand & Sea
BEACHES
Forte dei Marmi, Queen of the Italian Riviera, and Viareggio are just accros the mountains on the West side of the Garfagnana valley. Relax on the beach, go shopping in the afternoon and dine in the evening. It’s an excellent day out.
Picture source: Augustus Beach Club Forte dei Marmi