The inland of the Cinque Terre Villages and their cultural background, to be visited to understand its diversified nature, long history and unique flavors.
The Val di Vara is the largest and least populated territory of the Cinque Terre area, and offers a unique historical background. Its strategic importance is evident, and it is from the Val di Vara than many artisanal and craftmanship activities spread. A real landmark in northern Italy.
With a low density of human settlement and large spots of unspoilt nature, today the Vara Valley winds along the Vara River, on the banks of which stand ancient castles and villages, in a territory which in the Middle Ages was often disputed between Genoan wealthy families and Florence and Tuscany feuds for the control of important routes and trading centers.
Explore the Vara Valley Area
Val di Vara
Brugnato
Brugnato è un borgo antichissimo della Val Vara, un tempo importante centro religioso ed economico, fondato dai monaci che scendevano dall'Emilia al mare.
Calice al Cornoviglio
Il territorio di Calice al Cornoviglio è totalmente montuoso, attraversato da strette vallate e torrenti trasversali alla Val di Vara. La città di Calice sorge su una collina e la sua fortezza era contesa dalle dominazioni feudali che in alternativa dominavano l'area.
Pignone
Pignone è uno dei borghi più importanti della Valle Vara, in particolare per le sue colture biologiche di ortaggi e allevamento.
Bolano
Arroccato in una posizione strategica su una collina che domina la confluenza del fiume Vara con la Magra, Bolano offre splendide viste sulla Val di Vara, sull'Alta Lunigiana, sulla Val di Magra e su un ampio tratto di costa. Il centro storico ha mantenuto l'aspetto di un borgo fortificato medievale.
- Where are you?
Cinque Terre Area
I borghi delle Cinque Terre
Il Golfo dei Poeti: Portovenere, Lerici e La Spezia
Val di Vara e Distretto Biologico
Lunigiana, antichi castelli e pievi
BRUGNATO AND THE "ROUND HAMLETS"
At the foot of the Cornoviglio Mountain.
CALICE AL CORNOVIGLIO
A charming rounded shape for the capital of the Bio District.
PIGNONE
A strong community, that rebuilt the village after a tragic flood.
BOLANO
A dominating outlook on the Valley.
Not to miss in the Vara Valley
The Vara Valley in 6 points
1
Find the Cinque Terre History
Visit its ancient villages to know more about history and art of the whole Cinque Terre area.
2
The first Bio District
Brugnato is the Capital of the first European Bio District, for the sustainable management of local resources.
3
Genuine Food
Cheese, ham, honey, bread, sausages, potatoes, jams, are just some of the local delicacies.
4
Swim in the Vara River
There are a few perfect spots along the River for a refreshing swim
5
Trek the Mountains to the sea
Walk the “Bardelloni”, the ancient suggestive mule tracks from the mountains to the sea.
6
The Cinque Terre Outlet Village
If you like shopping, enjoy the great designers shops and offers of the Cinque Terre Outlet Mall in Brugnato.
Useful Advice to explore the Vara Valley
How to travel the area
- There are no railways in the Vara Valley, you can reach the many villages only by bus or by car, and with our transfer service.
- The highway crosses the Valley from La Spezia, the exit to get to the Valley is in Brugnato.
- From La Spezia, it is also possible to drive the Aurelia road, crossing the valley. It takes longer, but you can enjoy the view of the green valley and the many villages.
Top Experiences in Vara Valley
Vara Valley top stories
- Where are you?
Cinque Terre Area