Discover the Acquerino State Biogenetic Nature Reserve, a pristine sanctuary nestled in the Pistoia Apennines, managed by the Carabinieri Biodiversity Unit.
Key Highlights
- Ancient Forests: This vast reserve is dominated by magnificent Beech forests and mixed stands, including important Douglas Fir seed areas used for reforestation.
- Wildlife Haven: Known nationally as the ‘Kingdom of the Red Deer’ (Cervus elaphus). Visitors often hear the deer’s famous ‘bellowing’ (bramito) during autumn. The area also hosts the Apennine wolf.
- High Biodiversity: Protecting the upper Limentra stream basin, the reserve is vital for species like the protected river crayfish and various rare mountain flowers.
- Trekking & History: Explore marked CAI trails that weave through the woods and past historical traces, including the medieval ruins of the Glozanno monastery.
The Acquerino Reserve offers an unforgettable immersion into the wild, unspoiled nature of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines.
Price € 160 per Group
Starting Altitude
830mt
Distance
10.9km
Elevation Gain
375mt
Duration
6h
Difficulty ⛰️
Medium-EasyThis hike presents no technical difficulties or exposure. The main challenge is the physical fitness required due to the several kilometers and substantial elevation gain. For those needing a break, the hike can be shortened if participants feel exhausted. The physical demands mean this hike is best suited for children aged 12 and older who are accustomed to regular walking and sustained outdoor activity. |
Must Have 🚩
To ensure the best possible experience and your personal comfort throughout the trek, please consider these items mandatory. Being fully prepared allows us to focus entirely on enjoying the beautiful Tuscan trails.
Participants are responsible for bringing all necessary gear, food, and water.
| Hiking Boots | ✅ |
| 1.5 LT of Water (minimum, per person) | ✅ |
| Backpack | ✅ |
| Layered clothing | ✅ |
| Windbreaker (Shell Jacket) | ✅ |
| High-Energy Trail Snacks | ✅ |
Starting point 📍
The hike starts directly at the Acquerino Nature Preserve. As public transport options are limited, participants must arrive via personal vehicle. Carpooling can be organized.
Approximate Driving Distances
- Pistoia: 24 km
- Prato: 36 km
- Montecatini Terme: 36 km
- Lucca: 64 km
- Firenze (Florence): 74 km
- Pisa: 86 km
The precise meeting location and starting point coordinates will be shared with all participants 24 hours prior to the scheduled hike date.
Private Experience 🌲️
- Group Size and Capacity: This is a private experience with a capacity of up to 8 participants. For larger groups, an additional guide is required, and a surcharge will be applied to cover the added resource.
- Customization Options: This is a fully customizable private experience. We can adjust the route, starting point, and start time to perfectly fit your group's needs and preferences. Customizations can include an early start to catch the sunrise or modification of the route for different difficulty levels.
All gallery images are original photographs taken on location by me.
Your Guide 🧭
Stefano Gabryel
I am a certified GAE Hiking Guide and Nature Photographer in Tuscany. I specialize in exclusive, slow-paced trekking on hidden mountain tracks, showing private groups the region's wild, pure beauty with a photographer's discerning eye.
| Nationality Italian | Languages English, Italian |