Discover hidden Tuscany on an 8-day guided hiking tour. Hike the Alpi Apuane, stay in a rustic farmhouse, enjoy local cuisine & explore Lucca. Small group adventure.
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Discover Hidden Tuscany: An 8-Day Guided Hiking Adventure in the Garfagnana
When you picture Tuscany, you likely think of rolling hills and vineyards. But north of Florence lies a secret waiting to be discovered: the Garfagnana. This dramatic region of jagged mountain peaks, dense chestnut forests, and medieval villages offers some of the best hiking in Italy. This 8-day guided walking tour immerses you in this breathtaking landscape, far from the crowded tourist trails, returning each evening to the warmth of a traditional Tuscan farmhouse.
Why This Tuscan Hiking Tour is Unforgettable
This trip, operated by the renowned Exodus Adventure Travels, is designed for those who want to experience the authentic, wild heart of Tuscany.
Beyond the Crowds: Explore the stunning, lesser-known Garfagnana region and the striking Alpi Apuane mountains.
A Hiker's Paradise: Tackle a curated selection of day hikes with breathtaking summit views, ancient pathways, and diverse flora and fauna.
Authentic Tuscan Agriturismo: Your base is the beautiful Agriturismo Braccicorti, a stone farmhouse with a pool, offering genuine hospitality and home-cooked meals.
Expert Local Guidance: Your knowledgeable leader will bring the landscape and its history to life on the trails.
Perfect Balance: The itinerary blends challenging hikes with a free day to explore cultural gems like Lucca, Pisa, Florence, or the Cinque Terre.
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Your 8-Day Hiking Itinerary in Tuscany
Day 1: Arrive at Agriturismo Braccicorti
Your adventure begins at your home for the week. Settle in, take a dip in the pool, and meet your group and guide over a welcome dinner.
Day 2: Orecchiella National Park & Summit Pania di Corfino
A short transfer brings you to the start of your first hike. Walk through beautiful beech forests in Orecchiella National Park on an ancient shepherds' route to the summit of Pania di Corfino for incredible 360-degree views of the valley.
*Walk: 7.5 mi (12 km) | Ascent/Descent: 2,700 ft (825 m)*
Day 3: The "Half Dome" of Monte Sumbra
Hike through beech woods to a limestone plateau with magnificent views of Monte Sumbra, Tuscany's answer to Half Dome. Opt for the challenging ascent to the summit for an even more spectacular panorama.
*Walk: 8 mi (13 km) | Ascent/Descent: 2,495 ft (760 m)*
Day 4: Medieval Villages & Castelnuovo
Walk directly from your farmhouse accommodation through quaint villages to the medieval town of Castiglione. Continue to the regional heart, Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, and take a short train ride back.
*Walk: 8.5 mi (14 km) | Ascent/Descent: 1,360 ft (415 m)*
Day 5: Free Day to Explore
Choose your own adventure! Your leader can help you plan a trip to:
Lucca: Explore the charming fortified city with its iconic walls.
Pisa: See the legendary Leaning Tower.
Florence: Marvel at Renaissance art, including Michelangelo's David.
Cinque Terre: Visit the famous five fishing villages on the Ligurian coast.
Or simply relax by the pool at Braccicorti.
Day 6: Monte Forato's Natural Rock Arch
Hike from the village of Fornovolasco through chestnut forests to the incredible natural rock arch of Monte Forato, a unique geological wonder with frameless views to the sea.
*Walk: 7 mi (11 km) | Ascent/Descent: 2,755 ft (840 m)*
Day 7: Summit Monte Prado, Tuscany's Rooftop
Conquer the highest peak in Tuscany! Hike through beech forests and along ridges blanketed with berries to the summit of Monte Prado. On a clear day, the views stretch all the way to the French Alps.
*Walk: 10 mi (16 km) | Ascent/Descent: 2,740 ft (835 m)*
Day 8: Departure
Enjoy a final Italian breakfast at Braccicorti before beginning your journey home, filled with memories of mountain vistas and Tuscan charm.
What’s Included vs. What’s Not
✅ WHAT'S INCLUDED:
Accommodation: 7 nights at the beautiful Agriturismo Braccicorti.
Meals: All breakfasts, 5 picnic lunches, and 5 delicious dinners (including wine!).
Expert Guide: Services of a professional, knowledgeable hiking leader.
All Hikes: Five fully guided day walks as described in the itinerary.
Transport: All transfers to and from trailheads during the tour in a private minibus.
❌ WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:
International Flights: To/from Pisa or Florence.
Travel Insurance: Mandatory for this trip.
Free Day Expenses: Transport and expenses for your free day (e.g., train tickets to Lucca/Florence, museum entrances, meals).
Visas: If required.
Local Tax: A small tourist tax (approx. €10) payable directly to the accommodation.
Some Meals: 2 lunches and 2 dinners are not included, allowing you to explore local restaurants.
Is This Hiking Tour Right For You?
This tour is perfect for you if:
You are a regular walker/hiker and have a good level of fitness (graded Moderate/Level 3).
You want to experience the authentic, mountainous side of Tuscany.
You enjoy the camaraderie of a small group and value expert local guidance.
You appreciate good food and staying in characterful, family-run accommodations.
Things to consider:
Fitness Level: The hikes involve significant ascent and descent each day on rocky mountain paths. You should be comfortable walking 8-10 miles daily.
Challenging Departures: Exodus also offers Level 5 (Challenging) departures on select dates for those seeking more difficult treks.
Ready to Walk Through Paradise?
This 8-day hiking tour is the ultimate way to experience the wild beauty and warm hospitality of Northern Tuscany. It’s a journey that engages all the senses—from the taste of homemade pasta and local wine to the feeling of accomplishment atop a panoramic summit.
Your Tuscan adventure awaits.