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Parco dell'Orecchiella: A Tuscan Treasure

Discover Tuscany's wild side in Parco dell'Orecchiella: hiking, wildlife, and stunning landscapes await in this Garfagnana nature reserve.

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Nestled in the Garfagnana region between the Apuan Alps and Tuscan Apennines, Parco dell'Orecchiella is a vast protected area showcasing unspoiled nature. Explore diverse landscapes, from beech forests to mountain gardens, and encounter local wildlife in this natural haven managed by the State Forestry Corps.

A brief summary to Parco dell'Orecchiella

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the park's opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the month.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be uneven.
  • Bring your own food and water, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period.
  • Dogs are not allowed in the paid area of the reserve.
  • Consider booking in advance, as the maximum number of daily visitors is limited.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Lucca, take the SS12 towards Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, then follow the SP324 towards Villa Collemandina. Continue towards Corfino and follow the signs to Parco dell'Orecchiella. From Aulla, take the SS445 to San Romano in Garfagnana, then follow the signs to Caprignana and the Visitor Center. Parking is available near the Visitor Center. Note that the final approach involves winding mountain roads. Parking near the Visitor Center is free.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Castelnuovo di Garfagnana or Piazza al Serchio. From either station, hire a minibus or taxi to reach Parco dell'Orecchiella, as there is no direct bus service to the park itself. Alternatively, take the E54 bus to Caprignana, which is a 1 minute walk to Orecchiella. Taxi from Castelnuovo di Garfagnana: Approximately €20-€30. Bus E54 fare: Approximately €2-€5.

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Discover more about Parco dell'Orecchiella

Parco dell'Orecchiella, a natural reserve in the heart of Garfagnana, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the wild beauty of Tuscany. This expansive park, stretching over 5,000 hectares, is located between the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. The park's diverse terrain ranges from 600 to 2,045 meters above sea level, featuring a large plateau dominated by the Pania di Corfino, a stunning limestone massif. The park is managed by the State Forestry Corps and is divided into three natural reserves: Orecchiella, Pania di Corfino, and Lama Rossa. Visitors can explore various attractions, including the Visitor Center, which houses the Naturalistic Museum and the Museum of Raptors. The Naturalistic Museum offers an interactive educational experience, showcasing the park's diverse environments, such as beech forests, high-altitude meadows, and rocky walls. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy numerous hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. The "Sunday trails" are pleasant walks accessible to everyone, while the "Airone trails" cater to more experienced hikers. The park is also a paradise for cyclists, with a wide range of routes available. The Maria Ansaldi Botanical Garden features significant plant species of the Orecchiella Park, with rare and endangered plants. Wildlife enclosures allow visitors to observe local species like mouflons, roe deer, and brown bears in their natural habitat. Traces of prehistoric human presence have been found within the park, including artifacts in caves. Today, Parco dell'Orecchiella provides a well-maintained environment suitable for families, with picnic areas and educational trails.

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