Highlight • Viewpoint
Burraia Meadows
Hiking
5.0
(77)
Mountain biking
5.0
(28)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona e Campigna
Tips
August 5, 2020
Hiking
•
June 12, 2021
Hiking
The toponym "burraia" recalls the activity …
•
June 21, 2022
Hiking
•
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Burraia Meadows
4.8
(29)
144
hikers
12.3km
04:54
570m
570m
Embark on the Monte Falco and Monte Falterona — Ring Tour, a moderate hike spanning 7.6 miles (12.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1884 feet (574 metres), typically completed in 4 hours and 54 minutes. You will traverse diverse terrain, from wide paths through ancient beech forests to steep sections leading to the Falterona meadows. Enjoy immense panoramic views from terraces marking the border between Romagna and Tuscany, looking out over the Apennine chain, Casentino valley, and Mugello. The route offers a mix of mountain paths, unpaved sections, and some alpine terrain, providing a varied and engaging experience.
To best enjoy this journey, ensure you wear sturdy shoes and are prepared for some steep sections that may require sure-footedness. While accessible for those with good fitness, parts of the trail demand attention, especially on alpine terrain. The fall season is particularly recommended for its vibrant foliage, transforming the forests into a spectacle of colors. In winter, snow can dramatically alter the landscape, offering a different, yet equally rewarding, experience for prepared hikers.
This trail takes you to Monte Falco and Monte Falterona, the highest peaks in the Casentino Forests National Park, often called the “roof of the Casentino Forests.” Monte Falterona is famously known as the source of the Arno River, a fact even referenced by Dante Alighieri. The area also holds historical significance, with routes potentially leading to the archaeological site of Lago degli Idoli, known for its Etruscan artifacts. An integral nature reserve protects the rare alpine vegetation around Monte Falco, which also marks the territorial boundary between Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany.
4.7
(25)
110
hikers
7.11km
02:59
350m
350m
Embark on the Monte Falco Ridge Walk (Sentiero 00), a moderate hike that takes you along the main Apennine watershed. This route covers 4.4 miles (7.1 km) with an elevation gain of 1155 feet (352 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 58 minutes to complete. You will experience ancient beech forests where the canopy forms a thick, tunnel-like passage, offering a unique atmosphere as you traverse the ridge.
To begin your adventure, head to the large parking area at Passo della Calla. The trail follows the GEA 00 ridge path, which also marks the boundary between Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. You can access the trailhead from the Tuscan side via Stia or from the Romagna side through Santa Sofia and Campigna. Plan your visit to allow ample time to enjoy the varied scenery and panoramic viewpoints along the way.
This trail leads you to Monte Falco's summit, the highest point in the Casentine Forests National Park. Along the way, you will pass a distinctive religious shrine carved into a tree trunk, dedicated to the Madonna della Foresta. The route also features the Prati della Burraia, large meadows with expansive views, and the historic Rifugio La Burraia, originally a grand ducal stable.
1
hikers
18.3km
07:08
710m
710m
Ancient beech forests and historic meadows along Italy's highest Apennine ridge trail.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,530 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Saturday 9 May
15°C
11°C
55 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December