Italy
Tuscany – Massa Carrara
Massa e Carrara: an introduction
In addition to beautiful beaches, Massa e Carrara also has a stunningly beautiful hinterland in the form of the Alpi Apuane. This regional nature park offers hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders a fantastic backdrop to be in the heart of nature.
The northernmost point of Tuscany is the province of Massa e Carrara. It is named after its two (!) capitals. The province is best known for its marble quarrying, which is concentrated in Carrara. None other than Michelangelo himself sourced his marble here to create sculptures such as the David. To this day, trucks drive back and forth here with large blocks of marble, which are subsequently shipped all over the world.
Bergen
The largest part of the province is mountainous, as it is situated in the Apennines. Only the western part bordering the sea is flat. In terms of cities, Massa e Carrara is very compact: besides Massa en Carrara, only Aulla is of any significant size. The rest of the province consists of villages and hamlets.
Massa e Carrara: a piece of history
Marble plays an important role in the history of the province of Massa e Carrara. Carrara originated as a village for marble quarrymen during the time of the Romans. This was part of Lunigiana, a region of the Roman Empire.
The village of Massa emerged somewhat later, in the eleventh century. The Obertenghi family built a castle there, around which the village of Massa developed. It was a popular place, given the fact that it was constantly fought over and therefore kept changing hands. In 1442, it eventually came into the hands of the Marquises of Malespina, who united it with Carrara.
The province of Massa Carrara was not established until 1859. Until 1871, it was part of Emilia, and only then of Tuscany. For a long time, the province was called Massa-Carra. The hyphen, which had been in the name since 1938, was replaced by an 'e' in 2010.
On the road in the province of Massa Carrara
Nature
Since 2013, Massa e Carrara has had a beach that is among the most beautiful and cleanest in Italy. This is because it has a so-called Blue Flag qualification awarded. This beach is located just outside Carrara, on the Tyrrhenian Sea.
In addition to beautiful beaches, Massa e Carrara also has a stunningly beautiful hinterland in the form of the Alpi Apuane. This Regional Park offers hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders a fantastic backdrop to be in the heart of nature.
Another remarkable natural phenomenon is the underground caves: the Grotte di Equi. Here, the most beautiful stalagmites and stalactites can be admired, and it is surprisingly refreshing during the warm summer months.
Culture
The province of Massa e Carrara has countless castles, churches, and religious sites. The castles in Bagnone, Carrara, Licciana Nardi, Fivizzano, Mulazzo, and Tresana, in particular, are certainly worth visiting.
For beautiful churches, you should visit Massa, Carrara, and Casola in Lunigiana. With their bell towers, these are unmissable attractions in the region. The cathedral of Carrara is made entirely of marble.
The marble quarries are best visited on foot. From Carrara, you walk past the various quarries towards Colonnota. This route takes about 4 to 5 hours.
In Carrara, there is also a museum dedicated to marble: the Museo Civico del Marmo. Here, you can see in a multimedia way how the marble is quarried and what is subsequently made from it.
Various museums in the province are dedicated to Lunigiana, an ancient Roman settlement. Aulla, Villafranca in Lunigiana, Pontremoli, and Mulazzo all have museums devoted to it. The museums in Mulazzo highlight Dante's research into this civilization.
culinary
Like every Italian province, Massa e Carrara also has its own specialties. These are very diverse:
- Lardo di Colonnata: marble-cured sausage with a salty taste.
- Honey from Lunigiana: the first Italian honey to obtain DOP status. It comes in two varieties: made from chestnut blossom and from acacia.
- caciotta di mucca: the most distinctive cheese of the province. Slightly sweet and not too pronounced, making it a good match for the local honey.
- fagiolo di Bigliolo: a type of bean already eaten by Cosimo Malaspina.
- testarolo: a type of pancake that, when cut into pieces, can serve as a substitute for pasta.
- Marocca di Casola: bread made from 70% chestnut flour. Pairs well with local honey or lardo di Colonnata.
- Torta d' erbi della Lunigiana: a type of quiche with countless fresh herbs. Especially in the countryside, this dish is made using whatever is available in the garden.
Walking
The most popular hiking trail in the province of Massa e Carrara is without a doubt the Via FrancigenaThis medieval road connected Canterbury in England with Rome. Now it is especially popular with pilgrims and walkers.
Walking route
The section of the Via Francigena that runs through Massa e Carrara can be divided into four stages: from Cisa to Pontremoli, from Pontremoli to Aulla, from Aulla to Avenza, and from Avenza to Pietrasanta. These are walks of between 5 and 8 hours, making them easily doable in a day. Along the way, there are countless sights that could offer a moment to pause.
View our hiking destinations: Walking and hiking
Cycling
The landscape of Massa e Carrara offers routes for road cyclists, mountain bikers, and more recreational cyclists alike. Those seeking a challenge can head into the mountains, but a loop through one of the towns or the beautiful countryside is also an option. There are plenty of choices.
Cycling route
The mountains of Carrara are an interesting place to cycle. A route runs here from Carrara via Bedizzano, Colonnata, Fantiscritto, and Torano back to Carrara. Along the way, you pass various museums and sights, and of course, the marble quarries themselves. The route is about 24 kilometers long and can therefore be covered in a few hours, depending, of course, on the stops along the way.
View our cycling destinations: Cycling and mountain biking in Tuscany
Wellness
Near the Grotte di Equi are the Terme di Equi, natural springs where various treatments are available. For a few euros, you can spend the whole day here.
Events
Massa e Carrara hosts various small events centered around regional products. A selection:
- Spino Fiorito: a biennial event featuring products from the region around Castello Malaspina. This is held in April in Massa.
- Sagra del Lardo: an event in Colonnata dedicated to lardo di Colonnata. Every year in August.
- Sagra del Panigaccio: an event dedicated to Panigaccio, a typical dish from Lunigiana. Every year in August.
- Sagra della Castagna: an event entirely dedicated to the chestnut. Every year in October in Licciana Nardi.
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FAQ
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Absolutely. Many of our holiday homes in Tuscany feature a swimming pool. Often private, sometimes shared on a small-scale estate. A pool with a view of the hills or among the olive trees makes your stay even more relaxing. Imagine lounging on a sunbed with a book, splashing around with the children, or enjoying the starry sky in the evening with a glass of wine. We also have houses with fenced pools or shallow areas, ideal for young families.
Yes, Tuscany is a dog-friendly destination. The landscape is perfect for walks, there are many quiet paths, and in most villages you will receive a warm welcome, even with a dog. Many of our accommodations welcome pets and have a large garden or even fenced grounds. Let us know that you are bringing your dog, and we will ensure a stay where you both feel at home.
Yes indeed, Tuscany is still the place to be for a spontaneous holiday. Especially outside the high season (spring or autumn), there are often beautiful spots available, sometimes with a nice discount. Keep an eye on our website or contact us for personal advice. Before you know it, you’ll be sitting among the cypress trees with a plate of fresh pasta and a view over the Tuscan hills. A spontaneous getaway has never been so tempting.
Tuscany is actually beautiful all year round. In spring (April-May), nature comes to life, with blooming fields, fresh air, and quiet roads. Ideal for those who enjoy walking or cycling. The summer months (June-August) are warm and lively, with sun-drenched days, cultural festivals, and long evenings outdoors. In autumn (September-October), tranquility returns, the grape and olive harvests begin, and the soft light makes everything even more beautiful. Even in winter, Tuscany offers charm! Think of cozy village markets and museums without crowds.
Tuscany feels like coming home, even if it is your first time there. The rolling hills with rows of cypress trees, the sun turning everything golden, and the scent of freshly baked bread and lavender—it is Italy at its finest. You wander through medieval towns, sample local wines on a terrace among the vines, and discover quiet country lanes where you spontaneously stop for a picnic with a view. Tuscany lets you enjoy yourself at your own pace.
Certainly. Tuscany is very suitable for families with children of all ages. You will find holiday homes with enclosed gardens, safe swimming pools, playgrounds, animals on the property, or other families to play with. Some houses are located close to fun outings such as adventure parks, castles, or farms where you can help with feeding. Also handy: accommodations with washing machines, cots, and extra shaded areas for the little ones.
Absolutely. Tuscany is a wonderful destination for families, and many holiday homes are fully geared towards this. You will find spacious gardens, safe swimming pools, child-friendly amenities such as high chairs and cots, and often plenty of room to play. Some houses are located on estates where children can easily connect with other families, while others offer complete privacy for a relaxed family holiday. There are even accommodations with farm animals, pizza ovens, or playgrounds. Success is guaranteed.
You won't get bored in Tuscany. Stroll through atmospheric cities like Florence, Siena, and Lucca, admire the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or wander through smaller gems such as San Gimignano or Montepulciano. Nature lovers can hike in the Val d'Orcia or cycle through the Chianti region. And do you love water? Then there are natural hot springs, lakes, and even beaches along the Tuscan coast. A wine tasting at a local cantina or a cooking workshop with fresh pasta will make your holiday complete.