Careggine: Snow, Mountain Trails and Local History

Careggine offers a combination of winter sports, trails in the Apuan Alps and a long ecclesiastical history. Its own ski area features groomed downhill runs and cross-country ski trails; the parish church also preserves works of art and a historic testament.

Winter Sports in Careggine

The Careggine ski area has three ski lifts. They serve alpine ski slopes in the two areas of Formica and Monte la Cima; altogether, there are 5 kilometres of groomed runs.

For Nordic skiing, the ski area has 5 kilometres of trails groomed for both the classic style and skating. In addition, snowshoes are ideal for exploring the area's forests and clearings in Careggine.

Circular Trails and Mountain Villages

The Sentiero dei Mulini consists of two circular trails. Both converge in the area of the sports facilities, making a shorter walk possible as well.

Isola Santa lies at an altitude of 550 metres in the Apuan Alps of Garfagnana. The village was probably founded in the High Middle Ages as a hospice along the road connecting Garfagnana with Versilia.

Hiking trails from Isola Santa lead to Monte Corchia, Freddone and Monte Penna di Sumbra.

Church History and Art

The first references to Careggine date back to 720. At that time, a chapel was consecrated which is now the parish church. The church contains a stone altarpiece and a statue of Saint Anthony dated 1563 and attributed to Vincenzo Civitali.

Panoramic View from the Big Bench

The large, bright yellow Big Bench also creates a distinctive viewpoint. It offers an impressive and unspoilt view of the Apuan Alps. The first Big Bench in Tuscany was inaugurated in 2019; it can be reached via a mule track leading to the “Dei Monti” viewpoint.

Bosa: Nature, Wildlife and Regional Produce

Bosa is home to the visitor centre of the Apuan Alps Regional Park.

Bosa lies on a natural terrace overlooking Lake Vagli and the valley of the Edron River.

The Museo della fauna di ieri e di oggi in Bosa displays preserved animals that live today on the mountain peaks, high-altitude meadows and in the forests of the Apuan Alps. It also features life-size reconstructions of a cave bear and a cave lion, as well as original finds from this area.

The Bottega in Bosa offers fresh and preserved goods, including products from short supply chains, heritage and local varieties, and niche products. Organic and traditional production are among the most important features of the selection.

For further destination options, open Isola Santa and Pierdiscini. Find more destinations under Viareggio, Gorfigliano, Minucciano, Camaiore, Piaggiori and Massarosa.

For the broader travel overview: Lucca.