Discover Pian Di Novello

If you would like to get to know Pian Di Novello by following a clearly defined hike, the “Itinerario della Faggeta” begins at Piazzale di Piandinovello. The 15-kilometre easy circular route runs along a forest road and provides a clear framework for planning an active day.

A circular route through the beech forest

After approximately 3 kilometres, the “Itinerario della Faggeta” reaches the Rifugio Lippi (Lagacciolo) hut. There, hikers can refill their water at a fresh spring and take a break. The approximate distance provides a specific reference point within the circular route.

The route runs entirely through a beech forest. Numerous ascents and descents characterise the trail; due to its nature, it is considered particularly suitable for mountain biking. In this way, the route is presented as suitable not only for hiking but also for more athletic use.

Rest area with sweeping views

Prato Bellincioni is a natural terrace and also a rest area with a table, benches and a fire pit. From there, the view extends over almost 360 degrees.

Snowshoeing to Monte Poggione

A winter route also begins in Pian di Novello: the “Ciaspolata CAI – Anello di Pian di Novello” snowshoe circuit leads to Monte Poggione. At 1,754 metres, it is the highest point on this route.

Environmental education and mountain habitats

The “Fior di Pietra” visitor centre has a classroom. It is used for environmental education events and screenings of nature documentaries. This means that natural history topics can be explored not only on trails but also in a room specifically provided for this purpose.

The Orto Botanico Forestale dell’Abetone has a guided trail leading from the visitor centre through recreated mountain habitats. The trail passes through woodland, heathland with blueberry bushes, rocky areas, a wetland, a small bog and along a small lake. The different landscape elements are thus combined in a single guided tour.

Protected area and cultural highlights

The Riserva Naturale Biogenetica Piano degli Ontani includes part of the Special Protection Area IT5130004 “Pian degli Ontani” and lies entirely within the larger Special Protection Area IT5130001 “Alta Valle Sestaione”.

The reserve also includes the art area “A tempo di gioco nell’orto di Giovannino”. Art is used there to introduce children to nature. The installation “Un teatro per Beatrice” provides a stage for performances, poetry readings and sketches.

Getting there from Pistoia

From Pistoia, access to the Riserva Naturale Biogenetica Piano degli Ontani initially follows the SR 66 and SS 12 to the village of Casotti di Cutigliano. There, turn onto the SP 20 towards Pian Ontani and Pian di Novello. This sequence of roads and places helps you divide the journey into individual sections.

Further orientation

For further orientation, see Piano Degli Ontani.

For the overarching travel overview: Cutigliano.