Parco Nazionale dell'Appennino Tosco-Emiliano

The Parco Nazionale dell'Appennino Tosco-Emiliano is a large protected area in the mountains between Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany with peaks over 2000 meters (6500 feet). The territory contains diverse landscapes from forests and meadows to steep rock formations and lakes, supporting a rich variety of plants and animals.

The park was established in 1997 to protect this unique mountain region. The old paths that still cross the territory date back to the Middle Ages and show how people have traveled through these mountains for centuries.

The park straddles two regions and brings together different mountain landscapes and ways of living. Local communities use the forests and meadows as part of their daily rhythms and connect with the changing seasons.

The park is easily reached by car from nearby cities like Reggio Emilia, Parma and Milan, with roads following historic passes. Train stations at Castelnuovo Garfagnana and Fivizzano connect to buses that travel into the park interior, and airports at Bologna, Pisa, Florence and Parma are nearby.

The Pietra di Bismantova is a remarkable rock formation with steep vertical walls that captures visitors' attention. This distinctive structure stands out from the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot to admire while walking through the area.