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The region of Valleriana, to the north of Pescia, owes its better-known name of “Svizzera Pesciatina” to Giovan Carlo Sismondi, a Genevan historian and economist who was reminded of his native land by the scenery and colours of the valleys. Among the hills and mountains stand ten medieval hamlets, known as “castella”, constructed with a local stone, pietra serena, which is still quarried in the area: Pietrabuona, Medicina, Fibbialla, Aramo, Sorana, San Quirico, Castelvecchio, Stiappa, Pontito and Vellano. Streams and chestnut woods, mills and paper mills, ruins and picturesque glimpses across the valley make for a delightful visit and pleasant walks immersed in history and nature. All the castelli are conveniently connected by asphalted roads and by walking trails. The most charming is the Valleriana Trekking which visits Svizzera Pesciatina and its castelli in five stages, with 4-6 hours walking each day, and offers the possibility of staying in the “Uso di sotto” refuge (“I montagnardi” association).

Sightseeing:
Paper Museum, Centro di documentazione sulla lavorazione della carta archives in Pietrabuona