The Casentino valley that stretches between Florence and Arezzo, welcomes 36,000 hectares of lush woods surrounded by mountains, villages, ruins of castles, ancient churches and monasteries.
It is often said that the Casentino represents a different type of Tuscany, perhaps a more poetic and stimulating part.
Being a hidden corner of Tuscany, it is the perfect non-touristy place where you can enjoy a trip to little known areas and excursions that lead you directly to the heart of this magical Tuscan land.
It is often said that the Casentino represents a different type of Tuscany, perhaps a more poetic and stimulating part.
Being a hidden corner of Tuscany, it is the perfect non-touristy place where you can enjoy a trip to little known areas and excursions that lead you directly to the heart of this magical Tuscan land.
Foreste Casentinesi National Park
A path in the Parco delle Foreste Casentinesi
The park is located on the Apennines. It has more than 595 kilometers of walkable paths that wind through an enchanted forest of oaks, conifers, beeches and chestnuts, where wildlife is still very flourishing.
It offers breathtaking landscapes throughout the year, but if you want to admire the dense and colorful foliage of the trees, we recommend that you visit it in autumn. In summer, the Casentino is the perfect escape if you are looking for fresh air and crystal clear streams.
In addition, during this season you can take part in nightly guided tours in the woods and go in search of fireflies.
La Verna sanctuary
The natural characteristics of the area, the high altitude and its isolation make the Casentino the perfect place for spiritual retreats.
Hermitages and monasteries have appeared in the area for centuries and many of them still exist.
Take the Camaldoli Monastery, for example, founded by San Romualdo in 1012. At about 1000 meters above sea level, the excursions around Camaldoli are spectacular, as is the hospitality of the monks. If you go to visit it, take a look at the old pharmacy, which sells handmade soaps, candies, herbal liqueurs and ancient remedies made with local forest products.
The Sanctuary of La Verna is one of the most famous destinations for pilgrims in Italy. San Francesco di Assisi was granted this area by a local count in 1213 and it was here that he received the Stigma of Christ.
A land of traditions
The castles and historic villages scattered over the Casentino countryside and hills remind us of the medieval era, when the area reached its maximum splendor.
The history of Casentino is connected to Count Guidi, who built the castle not only of Poppi, his hometown, but also of Romena, Porciano, Montemignaio and San Niccolò.
A land of traditions
Authenticity is the watchword of the Casentino.
It offers authentic flavors, which you will find in simple and tasty dishes such as the local specialty of Potato Tortelli - puff pastry stuffed with mashed and spiced potatoes.
An ancient tradition of craftsmanship, such as that of Casentino wool, a high quality local production with a characteristic texture that makes it warmer and more waterproof.
Its traditional colors are also unmistakable. Recently, some famous designers (such as Cavalli, Gucci and others) have used them in their collections.
Visit the Casentino, the hidden Tuscany full of riches.
The history of Casentino is connected to Count Guidi, who built the castle not only of Poppi, his hometown, but also of Romena, Porciano, Montemignaio and San Niccolò.
A land of traditions
Authenticity is the watchword of the Casentino.
It offers authentic flavors, which you will find in simple and tasty dishes such as the local specialty of Potato Tortelli - puff pastry stuffed with mashed and spiced potatoes.
An ancient tradition of craftsmanship, such as that of Casentino wool, a high quality local production with a characteristic texture that makes it warmer and more waterproof.
Its traditional colors are also unmistakable. Recently, some famous designers (such as Cavalli, Gucci and others) have used them in their collections.
Visit the Casentino, the hidden Tuscany full of riches.