This hike to Scaffaiolo Lake guides you along one of the most stunning ridges of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. This is a linear (non-loop) route that offers a constant, rewarding ascent.
Views and Destination
- Border Walk (360° Vistas): The path runs along the Crest Path (Sentiero di Cresta), guaranteeing spectacular views in all directions. You will be literally walking on the border: seeing the valleys of Tuscany on one side and the landscapes of Emilia-Romagna on the other, across the majestic Apennine peaks.
- Scaffaiolo Lake: The destination is Lago Scaffaiolo (1775 m a.s.l.), one of the highest natural basins in the Apennines and a place rich in history and legend, situated right on the regional border.
Refuge and Logistics
Upon reaching the lake, you will find the historic Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi.
- Dining Option: The refuge (when open) provides an optional spot for lunch or a warm drink. Alternatively, you are welcome to enjoy your own food outside, taking in the panoramic views.
- Return: As this is a linear route, the return journey follows the same magnificent path, allowing you to appreciate the landscapes from a new perspective.
Prepare for a highly rewarding mountain experience along the windswept ridge, where every step marks the boundary between two beautiful regions.
Price € 165 per Group
Starting Altitude
1500mt
Distance
9.5km
Elevation Gain
370mt
Duration
6h
Difficulty ⛰️
MediumThis hike presents no particular difficulties or exposure. The main challenges are related to the terrain:
Physical Fitness: 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 in a small mountain village high in the Apennines.
Due to limited public transport options serving this historic site, participants must arrive via personal vehicle.
Approximate Driving Distances
- Pistoia: 53 km
- Lucca: 67 km
- Montecatini Terme: 68 km
- Prato: 72 km
- Pisa: 85 km
- Viareggio: 93 km
- Firenze (Florence): 106 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 |