YOUR RATING
last year's survey score
Discover one of Jonas’s most popular and well-established group hiking tours. For years, we’ve been guiding hikers along the trails of the Casentino Forests National Park, in the heart of the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines. An active and rejuvenating vacation, ideal for those seeking nature, relaxation, and shared experiences. Easily accessible by train or car, the Casentino is the perfect destination fora stress-free hiking experience, immersed in centuries-old forests, spiritual sites, and authentic villages like Poppi and Raggiolo. Our expert guide will lead you on different hikes each day, introducing you to the flora, fauna, and stories of this region. We’ll visit places brimming with energy, such asthe Hermitage of Camaldoli and the Sanctuary of La Verna, walking through breathtaking landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage forests. All with the quality and organization you’ve come to expect.
WHERE ARE WE GOING?
Program
First day
In the afternoon, we’ll arrive at our accommodation , just a short walk from Poppi —one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval villages, nestled in the heartof the Upper Casentino Valley. The town is also easily accessible by public transportation, thanks to its proximity to the Poppi and Porrena train stations and bus routes. To allow for greater freedom of movement in the coming days, we’ll organize a carpool among the participants. After checking in, we’ll meet the guide and the rest of the group for an initial briefing. The day ends with a dinner featuring authentic traditional Tuscan flavors—the perfect way to break the ice and get to know one another.
Second day
The Deep Breath of the Forest
We reach Passo della Calla, the starting point for entering the heart of the Casentinesi Forests National Park. From here, we begin walking along the ridgeof the Tuscan Apennines, immersed in a monumental beech forest—one of the largest in Europe. Our pace slows to a natural rhythm: it’s a true forest bath, rejuvenating for both body and mind. We reach a picturesque hill, also celebrated by Ludovico Ariosto in *Orlando Furioso*, which offers a spectacular view of the Sasso Fratino Integral Reserve, the first Italian site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its biodiversity. Return to the hotel for relaxation and dinner.
Third day
The Sacred Forest of La Verna
Our vacation in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines takes us to Chiusi della Verna, surrounded by majestic forests and monumental trees. We walk through the enchanting Bosco delle Fate, immersed in the silence of the Casentino Forests, on a hike that rejuvenates both body and mind. We reach the Sanctuary of La Verna, a place where spirituality, nature, and mystery converge. The guide shares stories and profound insights. Return to the hotel, relax, and enjoy dinner in the garden of the historic estate.
Fourth day
Tuscan Freedom
A free day in the Casentino region, dedicated to taking things slow. Relax in the grounds of a historic estate nestled amid the Tuscan countryside, with the option to cool off in the pool. Alternatively, take a walk along the trails of the Casentino Forests or take a train ride to Arezzo to explore its art, historic squares, and authentic atmosphere. A day with no set plans, to experience Tuscany by following your instincts.
Fifth day
The Sacred Mountains of Casentino
We continue our week of hiking in Tuscany by venturing into the deepest and wildest heart of the Casentino Forests National Park, one of the oldest and best-preserved forested areas in Europe. We’ll hike along historic trails and ancient mule tracks nestled within centuries-old forests—a true natural sanctuary. We’ll reach the summit of Monte Falco, the park’s highest peak, where the view stretches across Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. From here, we’ll continue toward Monte Falterona, a mountain sacred to the Etruscans and the source of the Arno River. The day concludes at the picturesque Lago degli Idoli, a body of water brimming with charm and mystery, nestled in the forest. An evening of relaxation with dinner and good company at the hotel.
Sixth day
Camaldoli, the silence that surrounds
We wrap up our vacation with one last hike through the park, passing through majestic forests of silver firs that offer coolness and silence. We reach Camaldoli, one of the most evocative spiritual sites in the Apennines, and visit the ancient Hermitage of Camaldoli, founded over a thousand years ago. We then continue our walk along shaded, secluded trails to Monte Penna, a natural balcony overlooking Lake Ridracoli and the Sasso Fratino Strict Nature Reserve. An intense finale that encapsulates all the magic of the Casentino: nature, silence, and a deep sense of connection. Return to the hotel for dinner.
Seventh day
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the Casentino and the new friends we’ve met along the way. We exchange smiles, final stories, and contact information, with the promise—often kept—to meet again soon on new trails. This intermediate-level trek is one of Jonas’s must-do experiences: a journey refined over the years, offering a balanced blend of nature, hiking, culture, and camaraderie. The trek through the Casentino Forests National Park offers authentic experiences, far from mass tourism, and a deep connection with unspoiled, peaceful surroundings. You’ll return with pleasantly tired legs, a clear mind, and a heart full of images, scents, and memories that will continue to walk with you even after you’ve returned home.
accommodation in double/triple rooms with breakfast included
use of the small swimming pool and the grounds of the residence
half-board accommodation (3-course dinner, dessert, water, and coffee)
4-day full-day environmental guide
health and baggage insurancetravel, additional beverages, tourist tax, and anything not specified under “Includes.” Local transportation will be arranged by carpooling with participants’ own vehicles; we therefore ask for everyone’s full cooperation. If necessary, a vehicle can be rented for a fee, but for organizational reasons, this is only possible if requested in advance.
Single occupancy starting at €160
B&B in Porrena di Poppi - AR.
A historic residence where time seems to slow down. A poetic and authentic place, featuring spacious rooms, a garden, a pool, and an intimate atmosphere, striking a balance between old-world charm and simplicity. A warm, family-style welcome, attention to detail, and the rare feeling of being treated as guests, not customers.
The property is located near Poppi, a 40-minute drive from Arezzo and Florence. By train: from Arezzo, take the Arezzo-Pratovecchio/Stia line to the Porrena stop; the station is less than 100 meters as the crow flies from the property. We recommend carefully checking the train schedule for August 15.
The property offers free car parking.
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