Apuan Alps: easy hikes and day trips from Versilia

Things to do in winter · 2 min read

You can always see them from the beach: the Apuan Alps, marble mountains that look snow-capped even in summer. Getting up there is easier than you think.

Antro del Corchia: the hollow mountain

At Levigliani di Stazzema, about 29 km from Viareggio, you can visit one of Europe's largest cave systems. Visits are guided, last about 2 hours and follow some 2 km of walkways with many steps. Inside it's 7 °C all year: wear rubber-soled shoes and bring a sweater. Minimum age to walk unaided is 4, and buggies are not allowed. In winter it opens on some weekends and holidays: check the CorchiaPark calendar.

Apuan marble looks like snow: from up there, the Versilia sea is a thin blue line.

Monte Forato: the rock arch

Monte Forato has a natural arch about 26 m high and 32 m wide between its two summits. It's not a stroll: the gentlest route starts from Stazzema (CAI path 6 to Foce di Petrosciana, then 131 and 12), about 2.5 hours up. The direct route from Cardoso (CAI 12) is shorter but steep, for fit hikers.

Safety

• Check the weather and trail conditions before you go.
• Boots, water and a jacket: the weather changes fast at altitude.
• If you're not experienced, hire a licensed guide.

When to go

Spring and autumn are perfect; in summer start early. The Apuans are also a great idea off-season.

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Sources: CorchiaPark – info utili, Esplorando con Sabrina – Monte Forato, Gazzetta.it. General information: opening times, prices and dates change, so always check the official websites.