Ten minutes from Lucca lies a verdant valley, unknown even to locals. It is the valley of Vorno, on the northern side of the Monti Pisani, which gathers the most beautiful and ancient villas in the area. This itinerary traverses the valley, ascending in altitude and then descending again until it reaches the final pearl: theNottolini Aqueduct, a work of engineering and art at the same time, which among artificial canals, small bridges and a lush forest, fits with wonderful harmony into the natural context of the surrounding valley.

Technical description:
From Vorno we climb up beside a wild stream on a steep path. We cut across the mountain at altitude from west to east to descend through meadows, mountain huts and breathtaking views of Lucca and the Apuan Alps to the Golden Words, the magical water catchment of the ancient Nottolini Aqueduct.
The route has no criticality: the uphill elevation gain is concentrated in the first part on a single track path. This is followed by comfortable forest tracks and trails.

Route type: loop
Length: 15 km
Height difference in ascent: 515 m
Downhill elevation gain: 515 m
Highest point: 588 m
Lowest point: 90 m

Technical tips:
Clothing suitable for hiking. Not recommended in July and August.

Municipality of departure: Capannori
Starting location: Vorno
Municipality of arrival: Capannori
Place of arrival: Vorno

Recommended period:
All year round

Where to park:
Parking near the hostel “Il Rio di Vorno”