What to see near Lucca

Bagni di Lucca's hot springs have been renowned since Roman times, becoming famous in the time of Countess Matilda of Canossa, later attracting the attention of such illustrious figures such as Byron, Shelley, Carducci, Pascoli, Montale, Dumas, Strauss, Listz, Paganini, Puccini, and Mascagni, as well as politicians and popes. This small center, located in green Garfagnana, is rich in natural steam springs and caves, making it a paradise for those in need of specific treatments. In fact, the sulfate-bicarbonate-calcic waters of the Bernabò spring are curative, ideal for the treatment of skin diseases, rheumatic and respiratory diseases.

On the outskirts of Garfagnana we also find Borgo a Mozzano, the small stone village taken by storm during Halloween, an occasion when a truly "spooky" and overwhelming festival is organized. Making Borgo a Mozzano the town of witches and ghosts is the renowned Ponte del Diavolo (the Devil’s Bridge) or of the Maddalena. The bridge is inextricably linked to a legend that attributes its construction to San Giuliano aided by the Devil. It is one of the most famous Tuscan stories.

Food and wine enthusiasts can continue their journey to Montecarlo and make a stop to taste its wines. Montecarlo DOC can be both white and red, the former goes easily with appetizers, vegetable soups typical of Lucca, risottos and fish dishes; the latter goes well with all dishes of the most typical local food traditions, but in particular with roasts and game. Montecarlo wines are very balanced and fragrant, endowed with a distinct personality.

Capannori is located in a strategic position, between Altopiano delle Pizzorne, the Monti Pisani and the Plain of Lucca formed by the drainage of lake Bientina. Its territory is rich in numerous fortified places, castles and medieval towers, alternating with Renaissance villas with elegant and refined architecture. Built at an altitude that made it possible to cultivate vines and olive trees, the fortified sites were not only military garrisons, but real villages devoted to agriculture.

Barga is a small town orange flag characterized by a medieval layout, marked by a spider web of streets unraveling uphill. Following Via del Pretorio, to the right and left, you notice alleys and cart roads, parts of older buildings and perspective views until, passing Piazza Ser Barghesano, you have the vision of the Duomo di San Cristoforo (Cathedral of St. Cristoforo). From here you have an unforgettable view that it is worth the effort: you will see the beautiful profile of the Apuan Alps with Mount Forato in the distance.