Via Francigena

Distance from Podere Conti: 20 minutes’ walk

Steeped in tradition, this mediaeval pilgrim’s route from north Europe to Rome runs through the Cisa Pass and along the Magra Valley.

First documented in 725, the route became renowned when the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sigeric the Serious, diarised his route to and from Rome at the end of the 10th century.

Today pilgrims can retrace this historic route, visiting the many churches, villages and landmarks along the way.

Via del Volto Santo

Another ancient pilgrim’s route, the Via del Volto Santo, also passes through the Cisa Pass and along the Magra valley in Lunigiana.

The route is known for its stunning scenery and the numerous churches and other sites pilgrims can visit along the way.

Whether you’re a seasoned pilgrim or just want to explore Tuscany’s rich cultural heritage, walking the Via Francigena and the Via del Volto Santo is an unforgettable experience.

Distance from Podere Conti: 10 minutes’ walk

Podere Conti is nestled in the foothills of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines with breath-taking views across the Magra valley and the Apuan Alps. The area is a true paradise for hikers and trekkers of all levels, with routes ranging from easy to challenging.

EXPLORE HIKING AND TREKKING ROUTES IN LUNIGIANA

The property provides access to various trails leading to the National Park. and along the region’s historic pilgrim routes, offering a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich history and culture while enjoying the great outdoors.

Canyon Adventure at Stretti di Giaredo

Distance from Podere Conti: 30 minutes’ drive

Explore this narrow canyon on the river Gordana known for its towering gorge walls that are over 50m high and 500m long. This unique destination features rock pools and rock samples such as the red and green jasper used to sculpt many of the altars in Pontremoli’s churches.

As walking/swimming through the river is required, it’s not suitable for small children. The depth of the river varies depending on recent rainfall.

For a safe and guided experience we recommend booking a tour with local tour operator SIGERIC.

They organise half day trips every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in May, June and September and daily tours in July and August, and can supply wetsuits, safety helmets and lifejackets as required.

Grotti di Equi

The Geo-Archeo Park Equi is a fascinating karst complex that offers a unique blend of speleological, naturalistic, paleontological and archaeological wonders.

Explore the magnificent chambers with spectacular stalactites and serene little lakes and don’t miss the chance to visit the Tecchia, a prehistoric rock shelter, and Buca dei Serpi, the Giant’s kettle.

Visit the ApuanGeoLab – an Earth Sciences museum for a fun learning experience about this important archaeological site.

Distance from Podere Conti: 45 minutes’ drive

Tuscan-Emilian Apennines National Park

Distance from Podere Conti: 10 minutes’ drive or 60 minutes’ walk’

The national park on Podere Conti’s doorstep offers a wide array of hiking and trekking trails that traverse the diverse terrain of the park, from gentle meanders to steep ascents, lush forests and waterfalls to rugged mountains and rolling hills.

The estate extends into the National Park with many walks and trails accessible directly from the property, including the Prati di Logarghena, a renowned picnic spot famous for its fields of a rare, almost extinct, wild white daffodil celebrated at the Festa della Giunchiglia on the second Sunday of May.