La Valleriana, (Valley of the River, probable origin of the name) is a vast area north of Pescia, better known as the Pesciatina Switzerland. A valley dominated by chestnut woods, trails, and evergreen hills of rare beauty; and it is no surprise that the Genevan Sismondi, an exile who arrived in Pescia at the end of the 18th century, fell in love with this corner of paradise that reminded him of his homeland. In Valleriana, nature and history are inextricably intertwined, as evidenced by the splendid medieval villages, called the ten “castella” (Pietrabuona, Medicina, Fibbialla, Aramo, S.Quirico, Castelvecchio, Stiappa, Pontito, Sorana, Vellano) perfectly preserved.
These are small fortified jewels, whose structure dates back to the Middle Ages and justifies the defense of the area and the valley, which was subject to raids and wars. It is priceless to walk through the steep and narrow streets of Pontito (750 meters above sea level), the highest castle, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley; or to stroll through the characteristic alleys of San Quirico, one of the most beautiful places, which hosts an interesting Farming Museum.
Often neglected by mass tourism, these villages deserve to be rediscovered, not only for their beauty but also for their rich artistic heritage, rescued from neglect and abandonment thanks to the will of the inhabitants.
Like the precious Oratory of the Most Holy Rosary, in Castelvecchio, entirely decorated with stories of the Virgin and Christ, by an unknown author and dating back to around the 16th century, a treasure chest of rare beauty. Not far away, the Church of Saints Ansano and Tommaso, of Lombard origin, is the oldest religious monument in Valleriana. Documented since the 9th century and repeatedly remodeled, it has a suggestive crypt and a pediment decorated with “mysterious” figures, not yet deciphered.
Between the castella and along the valleys, there are also many connecting paths, with different types of routes, mostly signposted by the C.A.I. for a total of over 150 km. Rich in waters and ancient woods, this territory is perfect for those who love nature and slow tourism, the ideal place for trekking and mountain biking enthusiasts, who can explore the Pistoia and Lucca Apennine side, reach the Apuan Alps and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Along the bank of the Pescia River, there is a path accessible to all; it is 30 km divided into stages, on foot or by bicycle, reaching the Natural Reserve of the Padule del Fucecchio.
This vast protected area (about 1800 hectares), divided between the Province of Pistoia and the Province of Florence, is the largest inland swamp in Italy and you can observe the flora and fauna, immersed in silence. We recommend relying on local guides, particularly knowledgeable and passionate. The park has a well-equipped museum and lends itself to pleasant day excursions, for the joy of adults and children.
