The Parco Naturale delle Alpi Apuane's rugged ridgelines and sharp peaks stretch across northwestern Tuscany from Garfagnana all the way to the coast, offering hiking opportunities for all levels in its network of CAI-managed trails. Sweating for the views is not essential – drive to the idyllic Isola Santa for fairytale scenery or to Val Serenaia for a picture-perfect vista of rocky summits.
Monte Forato
Literally "the pierced mountain," Monte Forato (1230m) is a natural wonder of the Alpi Apuane. The arc joining its twin peaks creates a cavity that is visible from the valleys of Garfagnana, Media Valle and Versilia.
Twice a year, in November and February, people go to Barga to see the "double sunset": the sun disappears briefly behind the mountain to reappear in Monte Forato’s natural rock window. You can climb up the mountain from Fornovolasco – it's a tough hike with 800m of elevation gain, so make sure you come well prepared.
Monte Tambura & via Vandelli
The second-tallest peak (1891m) of the Alpi Apuane sits right on the Via Vandelli, the long-distance trail that follows an ancient military road connecting Massa and Modena. To complete the whole thing you’ll need a full week, but you can get to the top of Monte Tambura and back in a day from the village of Resceto. Make sure to stop for a meal at the Rifugio Nello Conti, a seasonal mountain hut nestled in the rocky slopes.
Pania della Croce
Climb Pania della Croce (1858m) from the hamlet of Piglionico. Once you get to the Rifugio Rossi hut you’ll spot the Omo Morto (Dead Man) formation, resembling the profile of a person lying down. Then you’ll start the ascent to the top, which will reward you with a fantastic view of the coast and the mountains. Go down on the opposite side to reach the Rifugio del Freo for lunch and if you have time walk all the way back to Isola Santa village before getting back.
Lago di Vagli
The artificial Lago di Vagli covers the submerged village of Fabbriche di Careggine, a Tuscan Atlantis abandoned in 1947. For the best views of this lake, go to the Campocatino oasis and follow the light, 30-minute path leading to the Eremo di San Viviano, a fascinating sanctuary located at 1090m altitude, emerging from the face of Monte Roccandagia. Alternatively, you can tackle the route up to Monte Sumbra (1769m) or fly over the lake at 130km/h with Vagli Park’s zipline (vaglipark.it).
Monte Pizzo d’Uccello
If hiking is not enough, climbing opportunities for experienced mountaineers are found on the Oppio–Colnaghi route on Monte Pizzo d'Uccello (1781m), where an 800m vertical wall awaits. Le Rocchette, near Molazzana, is more suited for beginners.
Val Serenaia
To enjoy one of the best views over the mountain chain drive up to Rifugio Val Serenaia (1000m), open from April to October and offering a photogenic panorama from its terrace, accompanied by legendary homemade cakes. Experienced hikers can stay the night in one of the dorms and leave early in the morning to tackle the challenging route up Monte Pizzo d’Uccello.
Monte Pisanino
The king of the Alpi Apuane, Monte Pisanino (1946m) dominates the skyline. Getting to the top is an endeavor only highly experienced hikers should attempt, as all routes are steep and often slippery.
