Walking in Tuscany

• Seven nights in a farmhouse with a swimming pool
• Five days' walking; one free day
• Maximum altitude: 6,739ft (2,054m); average 3,281ft (1,000m)
• Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures on selected weeks

Those on May departures can expect warm days, although rain is always possible. Nights may be rather cool. Early June is similar, with the days becoming progressively hotter and the evenings much warmer. September and October are cooler and wetter, but visibility is better. We strongly recommend a fleece-lined jacket or warm sweater in May, September and October.

Garfagnana is home to some of the most spectacular and interesting treks in Italy, with the bonus of knowing we will rarely see other walkers.

Most paths are well-maintained; however, a few sections are less frequently used and rough underfoot, with some steep ascents and descents. It will suit regular exercisers and previous trekking experience is needed. Some trails can be overgrown, so long trousers are recommended. Early in the season, there may be patches of snow, which may mean wearing snowshoes.

The area is mountainous and most drives, although short, follow twisting mountain roads through wooded areas.

Activity Level 3 (Moderate) departures

Most departure dates are graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate) with ascents and descents of 1,312ft-2,297ft (400m-700m). We usually walk four to six hours each day, so a good level of fitness is required.

Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures

For Activity Level 5 (Challenging) weeks, we usually walk between five and eight hours per day and a high level of fitness is required. We spend one night in a comfortable mountain refuge, so we will have to pack our belongings for our two-day ridge excursion into our daypacks (eg sleeping bag liner, wash kit, change of clothes). It should not be necessary to carry more than 18lb (8kg). Items not required on the walk can be left in your room at Braccicorti.

All departures

We use the same mountain ranges for both levels and vary the routes according to weather conditions or other factors beyond our control. While aiming to always follow the routes described in these Trip Notes, it will be the leader’s decision to amend the itinerary if necessary.

Summer months

Tuscany can be very hot during summer, especially from June to August, though heatwaves can also occur in April and May. We try to start our walks earlier to avoid the hottest hours, but temperatures and humidity will still be high. You should feel comfortable walking in the heat. Additionally, agriturismos, which are based in the countryside, are not normally equipped with air conditioning.

Mosquito numbers may significantly increase in the summer, so bring repellent with you.

Please note that at times, especially during summer months, the inbound flight can be late in the evening. In this instance you will have additional time to spend in Pisa. The leader will take care of all arrangements in terms of transport from/to the airport and the city centre and luggage storage. It may also happen that, for logistical reasons, on return we will have to be at the airport earlier than normally scheduled. This will mean a longer waiting time before checking in.