
|
|
Description:
This trip combines the chance to discover the earth’s natural wonders
within the realms of geology and geomorphology, with a visit to a city
rich in art and history. Visits to the medieval city and archaeological
sites, at the heart of Etruria, enable us to see why an area which already
fascinated the Etruscans, can still holds surprises for its modern
inhabitants. These places are unique because of local geothermal
activity, and we will be taking a look at how this has affected the
history of mankind since Etruscan times. This is a trip for those who are
curious to learn about the “life, death and miracles” of one of the most
famous geothermal areas of the world, and see for themselves the workings
of the industrial process, geothermal features and naturally occurring
mineral outcrops of the so-called “Valley of the Devil”.
Day 1°:
Visit to Larderello: the Geothermal electricity plant in the Secolo
Valley; the active fumarole; the lagoon and Geothermal Museum; free time
for lunch; bus transfer to the Sasso Pisano geothermal area; excursion on
foot through this unique geothermal area, as far as Mount Rotondo
Marittimo (exploring natural geothermal features, fumaroles, mineral
outcrops and natural lagoons)
Day 2°:
Visit to the city of Volterra, the archaeological park and Roman
theatre, free time for lunch; visit to the Balze di Volterra.
Level of difficulty: none,
Description:
This trip
takes us to the Migliarino-San Rossore-Massaciuccoli Regional Park
and the Pisa Mountains
Day 1°
Visit to the famous Tenuta di San Rossore, discovering its romantic pine
forests and waterways, where flora characteristic of the Mediterranean and
humid areas flourish in the unusual climate. Wild boars and deer abound
on the Estate, and can often be seen, along with herons and buzzards. Free
time for lunch.
In the afternoon, visit to the Massaciuccoli lake, where Giacomo Puccini
spent some of his life, and where aquatic birds live all year round.
Optional visit to Puccini’s villa and other Massaciuccoli Roman villas.
Day 2°:
Trip to the Pisa mountains
Level of difficulty: none for day one, moderate on day two.
tHE Islands of
THE Tuscan Archipelago
Description:
Either
as a trekking weekend with overnight stay in hotels or alternatively
transfer and accommodation on board a yacht or catamaran
Isola di
Capraia:
This is the only volcanic island in the archipelago. It is a wild area,
with difficult paths and few trees, where the views and fragrances
delight. The island appeals to those who are looking for an escape from
everyday life. A trip can be taken to the Stagnone lake, to the old
prison, to Mount Arpagna or simply visit the island by boat, passing by
the Zenobith point, which is actually the red area of a crater.
Level of difficulty: difficult, suitable for those with a good
level of physical fitness
Isola
d'Elba:
There is a wide choice of trips available on this diverse and fascinating
island where the vegetation ranges from Mediterranean to that typical of Apennines on Mount Capanne (1019 m). There are coastal paths visiting
splendid beaches or others inland, easy or difficult, the choice is yours.
Level of difficulty: dependent on participants
Trip duration: from 3h to 5h a day
Isola
del Giglio:
In contrast to Capraia, this island has more tourism, yet still maintains
its charm with its pretty coves, the ancient village of Castello, and
luxuriant vegetation. On the first day, the island of Giannuti can be
visited, a small gem covered in low Mediterranean scrub, home to a
substantial colony of royal seagulls.
Route type:
Giannutri is
relatively flat, Giglio has extensive up and downhill slopes, and roughly
5.5 km of moderate paths; height difference 405 m;
Level of difficulty: Giannutri is easy going, Giglio moderately so.
Under the stars on Apuan Alps
The Park of the Apuan Alps comprises a
rather particular mountain chain, that in spite of the vicinity with the
sea and the summits not particularly high, it has been deserved the name
of “Alps” thanks to the geo-morphologic conformation, characterized from
sharp tops, steep slopes and tight and deep valleys. The beauty of the
panoramas is unique. The nature of ground allows karst formations that
originate spectacular cave and gorges.
|