Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carciano, Piemonte to Serravalle Pistoiese, Toscana
If you're looking for an adventurous road trip through Italy, the drive from Carciano, Piemonte to Serravalle Pistoiese, Toscana is an excellent choice. This scenic route takes you through rolling hills, quaint villages, and historic towns. The two cities are definitely worth exploring but in between these two amazing destinations, make sure to stop and explore these five unexpected places that will surely make your trip memorable.
Halfway Point: Parma, PR
Before embarking on the rest of your journey, make sure to take a break at Parma. Parma is a small town known for its cured meats, cheeses, and wine. This town offers a perfect combination of culture, history and gastronomic delights that is sure to leave you speechless. Stop by the Piazza del Duomo, to admire the majestic architecture of the cathedral and marvel at the grandeur of the Baptistery. Don't forget to visit Teatro Farnese, a beautifully preserved theater that is an excellent example of Renaissance architecture.
Favorite Food: Prosciutto di Parma - Parma ham is one of Italy's most famous specialties. Thinly sliced and perfectly cured, it is a must-try in Parma.
1. Castles of Canossa, RE
Located in the hills of Reggio Emilia, Canossa is a small medieval village made up of cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and fortified castles. The castles of Canossa are impressive fortresses perched high on the hills that offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. The ruins of the castle of Countess Matilda of Canossa is a popular attraction. Visitors are amazed by the incredible architecture and the natural beauty of this historical site.
Favorite Food: Tortellini in Brodo - A delightful dish of handmade pasta filled with cheese or meat served in a delicately flavored broth.
2. Lucca, LU
Located in the heart of Tuscany, this beautiful town is surrounded by walls that has been preserved for many centuries. Walking through the narrow streets of Lucca is a magical experience, where visitors can admire stunning architectural masterpieces, such as the Lucca Cathedral, Torre Guinigi, and the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. It is also known for its music scene and hosts many festivals and events throughout the year such as the Lucca Summer Festival and the Puccini Festival.
Favorite Food: Farro Salad - Made from a locally grown whole grain that is cooked like risotto, served with fresh herbs, tomatoes and sometimes shaved parmesan.
3. Pitigliano, GR
Known as the "Little Jerusalem" of Tuscany, Pitigliano is a charming town built on tufa rock. The town offers a unique mix of Etruscan and Renaissance culture. The Etruscan tombs are a must-visit attraction where you can see the ancient burial sites of the early inhabitants of the region. The central piazza is surrounded by medieval buildings that are home to cafes, restaurants, and shops offering the local specialties.
Favorite Food: Acquacotta - A soup made with stale bread, fresh vegetables, poached eggs, and a rich tomato broth.
4. Val d'Orcia, SI
The Val d'Orcia stretches from Montalcino to Monte Amiata in Tuscany. This stunning region is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and cypress trees that evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. The area is also home to several medieval towns and breathtaking landscape that has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Favorite Food: Pici with Wild Boar Ragu - Pici is a thick handmade pasta served with a rich sauce made from wild boar meat, tomatoes, and red wine.
5. Saturnia, GR
Saturnia is a town in Tuscany, famous for its natural hot springs. The thermal waters are set in a breathtaking landscape surrounded by rolling hills and fields of wildflowers. The hot springs are rich in minerals and have been said to have therapeutic properties. Visitors can enjoy the natural pools that range in temperature from 37 to 42 degrees Celsius.
Favorite Food: Pecorino Cheese - Made from the milk of sheep that roam the surrounding hills, this cheese is perfect with a glass of red wine.
In conclusion, this road trip is the perfect way to experience the charm and beauty of Italy. Don't miss the opportunity to explore all the hidden gems along the way. From the castles of Canossa to the hot springs of Saturnia, every destination on this journey has something unique to offer. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Italy with a road trip from Carciano, Piemonte to Serravalle Pistoiese, Toscana.