Spend a day from Lucca exploring Garfagnana’s dramatic bridge, an artisan cheese factory tasting, and the medieval hill town of Barga. This private tour blends short walks with culinary insight and regional history.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You roll out of Lucca as the morning light slants across low ridges, a private minivan cutting a steady ribbon through olive groves toward the Apuan foothills. After roughly 30 minutes you arrive at Ponte della Maddalena—known locally as the Devil’s Bridge—its uneven arches skimming the Serchio River and begging a slow walk for photos and the local legends that cling to its stones.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness; able to walk short distances (10–20 minutes) on uneven surfaces and board a minivan for transfers
Wildlife
History
Garfagnana has long been a borderland shaped by medieval routes and mountain agriculture; Ponte della Maddalena dates to centuries of local engineering and folklore.
Conservation
Support local producers and stick to marked streets and trails—small-scale pastoralism sustains the cheese tradition but is vulnerable to over-tourism and land-use change.
Reserve your spot on the Explore Garfagnana, Land of Cheese and History, from Lucca today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear firm walking shoes
Stones and cobbles at the bridge and in Barga are uneven—supportive shoes make short walks more comfortable.
Declare dietary needs early
The operator requests special diets at booking but cannot always guarantee alternatives—note restrictions before arrival.
Bring a lightweight rain layer
Weather in the foothills can shift quickly; a packable rain shell keeps tasting notes and cameras dry.
Carry some cash
Small vendors and market stalls in Barga may prefer cash for purchases and tips.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good grip and ankle support for cobbles, bridge steps, and uneven paths.
Packable rain jacket
Light storms are common in spring; a shell keeps you dry without bulk.
spring
Sun hat & sunscreen
Open hilltop views mean prolonged sun exposure during summer afternoons.
summer
Compact camera or phone with spare battery
Scenic vistas and historic architecture reward photography—extra power helps on long days.