The spectacular Apuan Mountains mark the northern part of the Tuscan Apennines, bounded north-west by the river Magra (Lunigiana), east by the river Serchio (in the province of Lucca) and south-west by the Apuan Riviera (Versilia).
Their white tops are not as high as the Alps, and they are not covered in snow but in white marble: here, the most valuable white marble in the world has been quarried since the ancient Roman Empire times. It was probably already used during the Copper Age to produce various decorative utensils and commemorative objects.
This is why the these “Alps” owe their name to the Apui branch of the Ligurians, the indigenous population of the area.
Beautiful mountains, resembling the Alps, and the Versilia Coast make the Apuan Alps a unique setting for spectacular experiences. The upper Tuscany coast is a good shore for sailing and surfing, while the mountains offer extraordinary trekking opportunities to visit the marble quarries and enjoy the views. Up in the mountains, you can try the traditional food prepared for the marble quarrymen, like lard, focaccia bread and cheese.
