Walking in Tuscany

Name: Walking in Tuscany
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.8 (184 reviews)

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~~USD 1,999~~ USD 1,849

USD 2,724

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Walking & Trekking

Ways to Travel :

Guided Group, Private Group Adventures

Activity :

Walking & Trekking

Activity Levels :

3 out of 7 - Moderate

Group Size :

4 - 14

Ages :

16+

Trip Code :

TDT

Walk the mountainous region of Tuscany

Garfagnana, close to the much-loved trio of Lucca, Pisa and Florence, is one of the best-kept secrets in Italy and the perfect base for guided walking holidays in Tuscany. Lying between the striking peaks of the Alpi Apuane and Apennine ranges, the astonishing Garfagnana landscape is a far cry from the rolling hills of southern Tuscany. But that provides us with abundant hiking opportunities, which, along with picturesque mountaintop and lakeside villages coupled with warm local hospitality, make for a wonderful trip.

Please note: Most departures for this trip have been graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate); however, if you’re looking to push yourself, join one of our Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures to tackle more difficult treks and spend a night in a mountain refuge. For a day-by-day schedule for each Activity Level, see the itinerary. Please check the Dates & Prices tab to confirm the Activity Level rating for each departure before booking.

Highlights

Enjoy five wonderful walking days through the idyllic mountains of Tuscany
Stay in a beautifully situated Tuscan farmhouse with a swimming pool
Opportunity to visit Lucca on the free day

Key Information

Seven nights in a farmhouse with a swimming pool
Five days' walking; one free day
Maximum altitude: 6,739ft (2,054m); average 3,281ft (1,000m)
Activity Level 3 and Activity Level 5 departures available; see the Dates & Prices tab to confirm

Countries visited: Italy

What's Included

All breakfasts, five picnic lunches, five dinners
All accommodation
All transport and activities
Tour leader throughout

What's Not Included

Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request - limited availability)
Visas or vaccinations
Local taxes (approximately €10 per person)

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible.
During this trip we spend 7 nights at Braccicorti, a lodge-style farmhouse or ‘Agriturismo’ as they are known in Italy. For challenging grade departures, one of these nights is replaced with mountain hut accommodation. Using a locally run Agriturismo is a great way to support the agricultural community by giving farmers an alternative source of income.
Clients will have the chance to see locals go about day to day life at various markets. This is another great chance to learn something about local produce and to support small suppliers.
Read more about our other initiatives here.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

By travelling in a small group we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for re-usable bottles.
The payment of entrance fees to natural reserves generates income which is used for upkeep and development of these important sites. Orecchiella and Alpi Apuane National Parks are included on the itinerary.
We rewild 100 square metres per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances. In order to be part of the Agriturismo Association, it is a requirement to hire local staff and to use local produce. Therefore, where meals are supplied, fresh and seasonal ingredients like the Farro grain and abundant sweet chestnut are used to make regional specialties.
Walking trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support.
Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

Leave no trace: we do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: please bring a re-usable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.

Northern Tuscany with Exodus Travels

Holidays to Tuscany are beyond compare. Visit the gems of Lucca, Pisa and Florence on a holiday to Italy taking in the best-kept secrets of the region. Walking holidays in Tuscany cannot be complete without a stay in the charming forests and hills of the Garfagnana. You’ll find the perfect rural retreat at the family-run agriturismo of Braccicorti – the ideal base for walking holidays in Tuscany.

Recommended Trips

Walking in Tuscany

Itinerary

We gather at Agriturismo Braccicorti, approximately 4mi (6km) from Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and two hours from Pisa Airport. You can refresh yourself with a dip in the pool, before we gather for a welcome briefing later in the day.

Please note: Most departures for this trip have been graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate); however, if you’re looking to push yourself, join one of our Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures. This itinerary provides a day-by-day schedule for both Activity Levels. Please check the Dates & Prices tab to confirm the Activity Level rating for each departure before booking.

Meals Included: Dinner

After breakfast at Braccicorti, we drive to the small village of Pruno where we begin our walk into Orecchiella National Park. In spring, the area can be covered in snow punctuated by the tracks of wolves, deer and mountain hares. Late spring and summer, it is carpeted with an array of beautiful flowers and the beech trees sprout lime-green leaves, which transform to deep oranges, browns and reds in autumn. If we are lucky, we might spot birds of prey; perhaps common or honey buzzards, or even a golden eagle.

Our walk, which is set among beautiful beech trees, steadily ascends to the flat summit of Pania di Corfino, where you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views. After a leisurely picnic lunch, we head to the 16th-century village of Campaiana, before following an ancient mule track, which descends to the town of Corfino.

Walking distance: 8mi (13km); ascent: 1,978ft (603m); descent: 1,978ft (603m); maximum altitude: 5,259ft (1,603m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Starting the day with a drive of approximately 40 minutes, we arrive at the gorge of Fornovolasco in Alpi Apuane National Park. From here, we follow a dry riverbed through woodland, before ascending more steeply to enjoy views down to the Versilia coast and across to the marble quarries.

We take a short scramble to meet the spine that leads up to the incredible rock arch of Monte Forato. The summit is only a stone's throw away; ascend it for majestic views of Pania della Croce. Continuing on the path, we descend sharply through the trees and past old shepherds’ huts to reach our minibus.

Walking distance: 9mi (15km); ascent: 2,274ft (693m); descent: 2,274ft (693m); maximum altitude: 4,012ft (1,223m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we drive 40 minutes to the small village of Vianova and begin our walk into Alpi Apuane National Park. Much of our initial ascent is on a wide forest track that continues through beech woods to our first viewpoint across to the face of Pania della Croce and the Omo Morto range.

From here, we take a footpath ascending to a limestone plateau where there is an optional ascent to the summit of Monte Sumbra (5,791ft/1,765m). Weather permitting, we will enjoy an uninterrupted view of the Alpi Apuane range, the Ligurian coast and the enormous spine of the Apennines. After lunch on the summit, we retrace our steps back to the limestone plateau, before heading down through the trees following one of the old charcoal trails back to the minibus. On the return to Braccicorti, we stop in the lovely town of Careggine (time permitting).

Walking distance: 10mi (16km); ascent: 2,205ft (672m); descent: 2,205ft (672m); maximum altitude: 5,791ft (1,765m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we drive for around 45 minutes to return to Alpi Apuane National Park, this time to arrive at the foot of Uomo Morto (the Dead Man). We ascend steadily through beech woods to emerge at Rifugio Rossi, a small mountain hut at the base of the Dead Man's nose. There is a high chance of seeing mouflon (wild mountain sheep) as we make our way up a large boulder field to a ridge leading to the top of the Dead Man's stomach and the summit of Pania della Croce at 6,096ft (1,858m).

Along with good views of the marble quarries and the coastal town of Forte di Marmi below us, we can admire the coast to the Cinque Terre, the flat plains of Lucca and Pisa to the east, and the long spine of the Apennine ridge on the opposite side of the valley. After a picnic lunch on the summit, we retrace our steps back to the rifugio, before returning to the bus.

Walking distance: 7.5mi (12km); ascent: 2,487ft (758m); descent: 2,487ft (758m); maximum altitude: 6,096ft (1,858m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

With a change of guide for the day, we walk directly from the farmhouse at 1,345ft (410m), firstly visiting the new town of Villa Collemandina before heading to the church and learning about the history of the area. After, the route follows tracks, quiet lanes and footpaths through the local farmland and villages allowing us a real insight into local life.

Midway through the day, we will arrive at Castiglione di Garfagnana at 1,788ft (545m), a small but beautiful medieval town. Castiglione is also the place where the largest and most popular chestnut festival in the region is held each autumn, celebrating the chestnut tree and the growth of truffles and mushrooms. After lunch, we cross a 13th-century bridge below the town leading into more farmland and back to Braccicorti on easy tracks.

Walking distance: 12mi (19km); ascent: 476ft (145m); descent: 476ft (145m); maximum altitude: 1,788ft (545m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Changing guides for the day, we transfer to the 16th-century shepherds’ village of Campocatino. From here, you begin a continuous ascent on a well-marked path to reach the ridge line of Monte Tambura where you begin your summit.

The path can be a little exposed and loose in places with stunning views of the craggy peaks all around. From the summit, we continue on the ridge line descending to one of the many marble quarries in this mountain range before carefully making our way across several small rocky sections with a fixed security line to aid us on our return to Campocatino.

Walking distance: 10mi (16km), ascent: 2,625ft (800m); descent: 2,625ft (800m); maximum altitude: 6,201ft (1,890m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is free to enjoy any of the following optional activities: one-hour train journey to visit the stunning fortified city of Lucca; 20-minute taxi and 90-minute train journey to the coastal Unesco World Heritage site of the Cinque Terre; 2hr 30min train journey to visit the capital city of Florence, home of Michelangelo's David; or the 90-minute train journey to Pisa where you can ascend the leaning tower and walk along the beautiful river Arno.

There are also plenty of options closer to home. Relax with a good book at the farmhouse and make use of the sun loungers and outdoor pool, take a walk down to Lago di Pontecosi for lunch or take a 10-minute train ride to Castelnuovo di Garfagnana for lunch and a walk to the old castle.

Meals Included: Breakfast

A 25-minute drive to Lago di Vagli, with its submerged village and impressive Monte Sumbra backdrop, will bring us to the start point for the day: Vagli Sotto. From here, we walk on a small footpath to the town of Vagli Sopra where we continue to ascend on a section of the pilgrimage walk through chestnut woods to arrive at the 16th-century shepherds’ village of Campocatino. Wandering through the village and seeing the beautiful, terraced meadows, protected by the impressive wall of Roccandagia, it is easy to understand why the shepherds chose this location.

From here, we continue to our highest point for the day at 3,904ft (1,190m) before descending through the trees to San Viviano's Hermitage. Built into the rock face, the tiny hermitage is said to be where San Viviano lived before his bones were discovered in 1993. It is now used as a chapel and pilgrimage site. Our descent takes a rarely used mountain path with views across the valley before arriving back at the bus.

Walking distance: 8mi (12.5km); ascent: 2,067ft (630m); descent: 2,067ft (630m); maximum altitude: 3,904ft (1,190m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a 40-minute drive, we begin our two-day ridge walk with a steady ascent through beech woods to meet the Crinali ridge in the Tosco-Emiliano Appennino National Park. During winter, the ridge is snow-covered, but spring brings the growth of alpine flowers, while autumn covers the ground in the purple of myrtle and juniper berries.

Following the crest, this easy route takes us along the ridge to the Monte Prado summit, the highest peak in Tuscany at 6,739ft (2,054m). We then descend to the small tarn of Lago di Bargetana, before continuing into Emilia Romagna and up to Monte Cusna at 6,959ft (2,121m). Marmots can be encountered on the way. After our second summit we descend to our mountain hut Rifugio Bargetana where we enjoy an evening meal before a well-deserved rest. Nestled among the trees, the rifugio is a retreat loved for its good food and wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Walking distance: 14mi (22.5km); ascent: 2,648ft (807m); descent: 2,648ft (807m); maximum altitude: 6,959ft (2,121m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We start the day with a 40-minute drive to the small ski area of Casone. Walking through beech woods brings us to the beginning of the Crinali ridge, a section of the 994mi (1,600km) Apennine ridge in the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park, offering some of the most impressive views of the week. Look below to see the fiery colours of the forest between the ridge line of Tuscany and the opposite ridge of Emilia Romagna. We take an easy path along the undulating ridge, leading up to the peak of Monte Prado, the highest in Tuscany at 6,739ft (2,054m). After lunch, we retrace our steps before descending on another route through woodland back to Casone, where there is a bar to enjoy a well-earned drink.

Walking distance: 10mi (16km); ascent: 2,428ft (740m); descent: 2,428ft (740m); maximum altitude: 6,739ft (2,054m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After our night in the mountain hut, we retrace our steps to Lago di Bargetana, then head back into Tuscany and onto the Crinali ridge. We stay on this ridge line all day with fantastic views across the Alpi Apuane National Park and the Serchio valley. During autumn, the views can stretch as far as the Alps to the north and the islands of Corsica and Sardinia. After completing 9mi (15km), we arrive at Passo di Praderana where we will drive 40 minutes to Braccicorti, with the option of stopping at the Osteria of Verrucole Fortress for a celebratory drink.

Walking distance: 9mi (15km); ascent: 686ft (209m); descent: 686ft (209m); maximum altitude: 6,394ft (1,949m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we’ll enjoy one final breakfast, before saying a fond farewell to Agriturismo Braccicorti, which may feel like a home-from-home by now.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Essential Info

Visa

Vaccination

Eating and Drinking

All breakfasts, five lunches and five dinners are included.

Continental breakfast with a choice of cereal, bread, yoghurt, eggs and fruit, plus milk, fruit juice and teas/coffee.

Packed lunches are provided on walking days with a buffet-style selection of meat, cheese, fish, salad, bread and salad mix, such as panzanella, plus a cake and fruit.

Starters include Garfagnana soup, pesto pasta, bresaola or risotto with locally made bread, water and Braccicorti red wine.

Main course can be stuffed peppers and courgettes with local cheese and pancetta, roasted meats, locally caught trout or a vegetarian dish such as aubergine and mozzarella bake with home-grown vegetables and salad.

Each meal is finished with a small dessert of homemade tiramisu, panna cotta, gelato or fruit salad and on occasions followed with homemade grappa or amaretto.

Vegetarians are usually well catered for in this area. If you have a gluten-free diet, we recommend taking items with you, as it is not easy to purchase gluten-free products locally.

Weather

Those on May departures can expect warm days, although rain is always possible. Nights may be rather cool. Early June is similar, with the days becoming progressively hotter and the evenings much warmer. September and October are cooler and wetter, but visibility is better. We strongly recommend a fleece-lined jacket or warm sweater in May, September and October.

Is this trip for you?

Garfagnana is home to some of the most spectacular and interesting treks in Italy, with the bonus of knowing we will rarely see other walkers.

Most paths are well-maintained; however, a few sections are less frequently used and rough underfoot, with some steep ascents and descents. It will suit regular exercisers and previous trekking experience is needed. Some trails can be overgrown, so long trousers are recommended. Early in the season, there may be patches of snow, which may mean wearing snowshoes.

The area is mountainous and most drives, although short, follow twisting mountain roads through wooded areas.

Activity Level 3 (Moderate) departures
Most departure dates are graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate) with ascents and descents of 1,312ft-2,297ft (400m-700m). We usually walk four to six hours each day, so a good level of fitness is required.

Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures
For Activity Level 5 (Challenging) weeks, we usually walk between five and eight hours per day and a high level of fitness is required. We spend one night in a comfortable mountain refuge, so we will have to pack our belongings for our two-day ridge excursion into our daypacks (eg sleeping bag liner, wash kit, change of clothes). It should not be necessary to carry more than 18lb (8kg). Items not required on the walk can be left in your room at Braccicorti.

All departures
We use the same mountain ranges for both levels and vary the routes according to weather conditions or other factors beyond our control. While aiming to always follow the routes described in these Trip Notes, it will be the leader’s decision to amend the itinerary if necessary.

Summer months
Tuscany can be very hot during summer, especially from June to August, though heatwaves can also occur in April and May. We try to start our walks earlier to avoid the hottest hours, but temperatures and humidity will still be high. You should feel comfortable walking in the heat. Additionally, agriturismos, which are based in the countryside, are not normally equipped with air conditioning.
Mosquito numbers may significantly increase in the summer, so bring repellent with you.

Please note that at times, especially during summer months, the inbound flight can be late in the evening. In this instance you will have additional time to spend in Pisa. The leader will take care of all arrangements in terms of transport from/to the airport and the city centre and luggage storage. It may also happen that, for logistical reasons, on return we will have to be at the airport earlier than normally scheduled. This will mean a longer waiting time before checking in.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Laurene Tubb

Reviewed September 2022

Walking Tuscany TDT

If you think of Tuscany you think of rolling hills. Stop. The Garfagnana Mountains are a relatively undiscovered part of Tuscany……..and they are indeed Mountains !!!! In fact they are superb mountains with beautiful climbs through gorgeous forests, onto green plateaus with alpine flowers and finally onto the rocky craggy peaks with 360 degree views far and wide. Where better to sit with your new group of friends and have a tasty picnic lunch. This is one of the best walking trips I have been on with Exodus……….made even better by the unique accommodation and the splendid food provided. I cannot fault it in any way.

Most Inspirational Moment

So many wonderful moments but I guess I enjoyed the achievement of getting to the peaks and seeing the far reaching views.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sarah is the best one yet !!!! (And they have all been good). She appears casual and laid back but in reality she is extremely well organised and anticipated our every need before we even knew we had one !!! Everything was well prepared and explained in a good manner........plus she didn't just expect us to remember it all...........she pre-prepared information for us to use. Even on our day off she took it upon herself to make sure we had everything we needed.........even buying our train tickets in advance, giving us an excellent timetable and booking taxis and evening meals. Nothing was forgotten. But above all of these things Sarah is a woman who's heart and soul is in these mountains and activities and she dearly wants to share it all with us and make sure we enjoy every moment. She is extremely professional and very careful. Indeed a lovely lady..........our Wonder Woman !!!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take note of the Exodus grading for this trip. It is a Grade 3. Top end Grade 3 I would say, having done a few. As far as I know the grading system is not 1 - 10 as I believe a lot of people sometimes think (and sometimes get caught out). So, rather than 3 being below halfway on a 1 - 10 grading, I think, maybe, this trip should be thought of as a 3 between, say, 1 - 5. A good moderate trip. (Just my opinion). It's a great holiday to do. Go for it.

Alasdair Murray

Reviewed July 2022

5*

I can’t summarise this trip any better than the excellent reviews already given on this page.
A great combination of some varied and challenging walking, comfortable and relaxing accommodation and a 1st class group leader.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent in all respects whether on the walks, at mealtimes, helping out on rest days and just generally being around. I've been on 7 Exodus trips, all with good leaders, but Sara stands out above them all. Her love of the place and the people is evident

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you're looking for a combination of good walking, good accommodation and food all delivered in a relaxed and unfussy (but totally professional) way whilst exploring some new and surprising parts of Italy then give this a go. Even in mid June as we experienced a heatwave we still had a short spell of wind and rain near the summit one day, so be prepared.

Chris Fagan

Reviewed May 2022

Wonderful Week in the Stunning Hills of Tuscany

After having to change the departure date several times due to Covid, this walking week in the Stunning Hills of North West Tuscany was truly worth waiting for.
The area is blessed with stunning scenery in every direction, and throughout the week you get a front row seat in experiencing it up close and personal. The trip notes accurately reflect the walks and the summit finishes will get the blood pumping and lungs working overtime, however the reward for this effort is plain to see. A good level of fitness is required, however our group leader, Sara Bull, looked after us all and made sure everyone felt comfortable. She is a truly amazing person, with such local knowledge and obvious passion for the history of the locality and family run business. She delivers the experience with such professionalism and attention to detail, which is to be applauded. From arranging evening outs at local restaurants, taxi’s, train tickets & information to Lucca for the day off excursion, she has everything covered.
The Agriturismo Braccicorti is charming, and is a typical restored Tuscan Farmhouse, complete with its own cast members strolling the grounds. Accommodation is simple but comfortable, the Italian homecooked food is lovely, as is the red wine, and dining alfresco each evening made for a great opportunity to mix in our small group of eight people, and re-live the experience of the days hiking.
My tip to anyone thinking of going on this trip (or any trip to Italy) is try to learn a few words of Italian, as I had done during lockdown. Whilst I’ve a long way to go to call myself an able Italian speaker, my efforts in using my limited vocabulary were met with wonderful enthusiasm and delight on every occasion.
I would therefore thoroughly recommend this trip to anyone considering it – just go for it and you wont be disappointed.

Catherine Whitehead

Reviewed May 2022

You're the Top

Excellent trip – had a really great time. The walking was varied and enjoyable with a mix of woods and mountain tops, rocks and even the odd patch of snow. I can’t praise our guide Sarah enough. We were able to spread out and enjoy the walking at a different pace if we wanted but to come together easily for stops and directions. The landscape is stunning with magnificent views. She went out of her way to make the holiday special and to include everyone.
Starting in the agristurismo made the holiday much more special. The sense that you are joining a family, the food is produced on site and cooked and prepare in a traditional style. The bedrooms are simple but functional and the site itself is a lovely place to stay with chickens wandering around and a golf course on site.
The day we spent with the local guide was also really enjoyable – walking at a lower level and learning all about the area through different environments.
We also had a lovely day in Lucca – we all decided to do the same day off, travelled together and although we split up to explore Lucca met up and travelled back and shared a meal out. The people on the trip are what make it and I couldn’t have had a nicer group. I enjoyed every minute of this holiday.

Most Inspirational Moment

I always find it inspirational to exert myself to climb a mountain and then take the time to take in the vast landscape below and to put any outside worries into perspective. There were many opportunities to do this on this trip but I think the day we climbed Monte Ferato was my favourite because the view was so panoramic. I took a moment to absorb it before others came up the mountain. I also hired a bike and rode it through the streets of Lucca out of the walled area and found myself at a level crossing and by the time the train arrived a group of Italian women all shopping on bikes had gathered one by one and struck up conversations with each other and me. An impromptu social gathering in response to an unwelcome delay..

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sarah was extraordinary - going out of her way for everyone to make the holiday work. Providing those with sore knees tape to provide support and teaching us about the area, the farm, the family history and the providing little snacks. Her fitness and lifestyle is inspirational. When we climbed the highest mountain I left my fleece on the very top. It was one that they don't make anymore and was a favourite. The next day was Sarah's day off and she climbed back up the mountain and got it back for me which was really above and beyond and I was very grateful. On the last night we all performed a few verses of a song I wrote to say thank you to her - which was great fun but probably quite painful to listen to.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't be fooled into thinking that Tuscany in April will be warm. At the top of the mountain I needed all my layers and I really bought clothing for strolling through rolling hills not climbing. As a result I had too many t shirts and not enough warm layers. You do however need both that work together. I think a down jacket would have been helpful and don't forget waterproof trousers. I didn't wear walking boots just walking shoes and its not as craggy walking as Iceland where I felt I did need my boots for ankle stability. I was happy to rely on the food from the farm which is fine for the packed lunch but others took snacks with them.

Suggestions

This trip went very smoothly and I didn't. have any issues.

Michael Carr

Reviewed May 2022

Highly Recommended

This was not our first walking holiday in Italy but it was the first time that we had been with Exodus and our first experience of staying in an agiturismo. This type of accommodation adds to the experience in that there is more interaction with the local community and greater exposure to their way of life. Although not as popular as some other regions of Italy Garfagnana is well worth a visit and deserves to be better known.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Outstanding. Our previous trips with Exodus have been with leaders who are native to the country. This has many advantages. Although she is english, Sara has led this trip for over 15 years and is pretty much accepted as a native by the locals. Furthermore, her professionalism and dedication to making the trip safe and enjoyable for the group was beyond question. Shortcomings in equipment were overcome using spare kit that she has accumulated over the years, minor injuries werer attended to, advice on how to use walking poles was dispensed, rail tickets were acquired on our behalf etc etc - both the expected and unexpected were more than adequately addressed. She even baked buns to welcome us back from our walk on her day off

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you have the appropriate clothing and equipment for a day out in the mountains.

Jonathan Coles

Reviewed May 2022

A fantastic holiday in a relatively undiscovered corner of Italy

This was a trip that will live long in my memory. My first journey abroad since the start of the COVID pandemic, the holiday was everything I hoped it would be and more. Stunning scenery, fantastic food, awesome accommodation, great people and a wonderful leader all combined to ensure that Italy will be the destination I will visit in my next holiday – and I would love to return to the Garfagnana region.

Most Inspirational Moment

There are too many moments to choose from. The walk to the summit of Mount Sumbra was challenging and certainly tested my head for heights, but the view from the top was out of this world - we could see the snow-covered peaks of mountains in nearby Emilia-Romagna as well as the broad sweep of the Italian coastline. I also really enjoyed the free day in Lucca - it is a stunning city with a lovely walk around the city walls and some interesting attractions, including the Torre Guinigi which gives you excellent views across the whole city. And then, of course, there was the 'village walk' led by one of the members of the family that own the agriturismo we stayed at - it provided a fascinating insight into the culture of a region that is still relatively unexplored.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara was absolutely awesome and the best leader I have encountered in all of my trips. She had a genuine interest in each and every member of the group and nothing was too much trouble for her. She also had a real passion for the area and her close connection with the family that runs the agriturismo meant that she was (and is) a well-integrated part of the local community. I really could not have hoped for a better person to lead our trip - she was wonderful.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for all weathers, particularly if travelling in April. The trip notes warned that snow was possible on the mountain slopes, but the snow cover we encountered was deep (apparently exceptionally so). It was easy to walk through and added to our overall experience, but I would definitely be prepared to take a thick waterproof coat, waterproof trousers and some decent hiking boots if travelling early in the season. Sara also loaned me some walking poles that were very useful when negotiating downhill sections covered in snow/rocky scree.

Suggestions

If the trip sounds appealing to you, don't hesitate to book. I have been on many Exodus trips and this was, for me, the stand-out one. I loved every aspect of this holiday and really wish that I could re-live the week again.

Brian White

Reviewed November 2019

Well Delivered Challenging Walking in a Beautiful Area

We did the challenging week in early September. Having done many ‘challenging’ holidays with Exodus in the past, for the first time a very challenging weeks walking was actually delivered. This was our first time in Tuscany and from the moment we got off the plane at Pisa we were taken with the area. The accommodation was idyllic and the surrounding scenery stunning. The day trip by train to Lucca was well worth it and very interesting.

Most Inspirational Moment

This was a great area for some serious walking, summits, views and scenery. Even the vehicle transfers to and from the start of the walks were interesting. The demanding two day walk with an overnight stay at the comfortable refuge was a great experience along with the strenuous summit of Monte Cusana.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara was a very good and knowledgeable guide who had a great passion for the area.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The weather was very kind to us in early September and we walked mainly in t-shirts, but we did have one wet afternoon when it absolutely poured, so take decent waterproofs and proper boots. There are problems with ticks in this area so it is important to check yourself at the end of each walk. We found a few! For the challenging departure you need to be fit otherwise you will hold the group back. Take good boots, poles and ideally a hydration system (Camelbak) as you get through plenty of water, and refills are not always available on the route. Although the overnight refuge was more 'posher' than some, you still need to take earplugs, eye shades, towel and a red bulb head torch. The food is excellent and plentiful and there is hot water, showers and proper toilets! All in all, a good experience and the thought of a refuge should not put you off booking this trip.

Suggestions

This trip has to be the best challenging walking week we have been on with Exodus. Do it, you won't regret it!

Annie Hibberd

Reviewed October 2019

Magical mountains in Italy

This beautiful undiscovered corner of northern Tuscany was both a delight and a surprise, and especially gorgeous in all its autumn glory. If you love mountains and views come here. If you love trees, they make the walking even better. There are Medieval villages too and gorgeous local food and wine. Perhaps a little more strenuous than other grade 3 trips, but with a good pair of boots, walking poles, lovely Braccicorti cooking in your belly and the best guide ever, you will reach heights, literally, you hadn’t imagined. With two exceptions, all of our group were 60+ and it was all achievable and a good challenging mixture of climbs and descents (with a fine hostelry at the end in most cases!)
The walks were all interesting and varied in the amazing geography of Garfagnana with a brilliant day out to Lucca in the middle of the week. Don’t hesitate – just go there!

Most Inspirational Moment

Climbing to the top of Monte Prado in clear warm weather in late October. The autumn colours of the beech trees, which extend to the tree line, were just beautiful - and catching a glimpse of a golden eagle on the way down. Walking up through the dappled light of the beech woods, knowing there were wild boar, deer and even wolves (higher up) unseen, but there nonetheless.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara is probably the best guide I have had the pleasure of walking with. Her love and knowledge of the area shines through as well as her vast skill and experience at getting the very best - plus a bit more - out of us motley crew. If I knew she was leading another trip (assuming the endurance levels were within my reach!) I would not hesitate to choose it. She went above and beyond to make two birthday celebrations on the final day most memorable - especially her home made cakes!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take good boots, definitely walking poles - and learn how to use them properly. Layers and rain protection. Late October was lovely and warm on most of the days, but a hat and fleece at the summit was welcome, even in bright sunshine. Leave your busy life behind and be ready to immerse yourself in the amazing peace of the mountains.

Suggestions

Be prepared to be amazed and delighted.

David Lowe

Reviewed September 2019

A brilliant holiday

We have walked many times on Exodus holidays and this rated at the top of our list of many great holidays. We chose a challenging week and were very pleased that we had. Braccacorti as a base was a delight – views across the valley to distant mountains, really comfortable and delicious food (and plenty of it!). The walking was as it had been described in the brochure – challenging but so rewarding and so varied.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hardly a moment but the two day walk with an overnight in the refugio will be a lasting memory of a great trip. This was a first venture into an overnight stop in a refuge. We didn't know what to expect but "really warm", "good food", "comfortable with plenty of space", "hot showers", "set in the heart of the mountains" all contributed to a wonderful experience. Walking the ridge with some wonderful views into Tuscany and Emiliano with the sun on our backs and good company - wonderful!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara was simply great! Nothing seemed to be too much trouble for her in explaining what we were going to be doing, checking we were OK, making sure all arrangements were in place...this we have come to expect from Exodus leaders. Sara added much more - sharing her own experiences as a world wide traveler and leader, telling us about the region in which we were walking, listening to our experiences, introducing us to local people, the family who run Braccacorti, restaurants and watering holes ( the local taxi drivers and guides). Her enthusiasm and passion just shone through!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you are ready for wet weather because when it rains that is something special! We had one downpour and then blue skies and sunshine for the week. For those on the challenging week and the stop in the refuge we would suggest taking a light weight towel so you can make the most of the showers. You don't need additional footwear as that is there for you in the refuge. For the light sleepers some earplugs might be helpful.

Suggestions

Now looking forward to planning where we go next....starting with the Exodus brochure

Anne Wenlock

Reviewed September 2019

Everything I could have hoped for.

This was my first holiday abroad for several years as well as my first booking with Exodus. My initial contact with the company was very positive and as soon as I booked my excitement began. The Agriturismo Braccicorti was idyllic and food was both plentiful and delicious (and washed down with Braccicorti wine). As for my fellow travellers, you couldn’t have chosen a more like-minded group. I can’t wait to start planning my next holiday.

Most Inspirational Moment

Climbing Mount Prado, the highest peak in Tuscany. The views were incredible.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Liz was a brilliant group leader. She was knowledgeable about the local area, an excellent Italian speaker and an experienced mountain leader. She went out of her way to ensure that everyone was happy during the climbs and considered everyone's abilities. Liz made train, taxi and restaurant bookings for us. She certainly seemed to go above and beyond!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the trip notes very carefully, consider how fit you are, wear technical clothes in summer, make sure your insurance is good enough for this activity - you will be asked to note down if you are covered for a helicopter evacuation. Get a good rucksack which is comfortable to wear for the whole day.

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You will get a refund if you have to cancel your trip due to COVID-19.

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Availability

This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 3 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!

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Availability

This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.

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Availability

This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.

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