Often described as a heaven on Earth, the stunning Tuscany area offers a myriad of possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most important locations is the Alpi Apuane UNESCO Global Geopark established in 1985 in order to protect the nature and culture within the range. Spreading over 21,000 hectares (52,000 acres), it combines varying and contrasting features of Tuscany, Karst, and a spectacular alpine environment. It’s famous for the roughly 300 marble quarries, floral and wildlife richness, and 5 million years of geological history. One of the most prominent mountains of the range is Pania della Croce (1,858 m/ 6,100 ft), often considered the signature mountain featuring multiple routes leading to the top, where views spread all the way to the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Reach the top through verdant slopes and big limestone gorges
The Queen of Alpi Apuane offers marvelous 360° panoramas
The area is a hiker’s paradise thanks to the many challenging trails
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.
We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Italy, please refer to the Italian Ministry of Health website.
Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
The best thing about hiking in Pania della Croce is that there are incredible options for all skill levels. If you can walk for 5 miles (four to six hours) with some elevation gain (+700m/2300ft), you are good to go! Keep in mind, the weather in summer can be very hot and you’ll also be packing a daypack filled with water and other things you’ll need throughout the day.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
Hiking in Pania della Croce can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Pania della Croce, most people fly into Pisa International Airport just an hour away. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Piglionico, Molazzana, where you’ll meet with your guides.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
