Montefegatesi: Hiking to Monte Coronato

Montefegatesi sits on a rocky spur and is a small medieval village with ancient origins in the highest part of the municipality of Bagni di Lucca. When choosing a destination for your stay, you’ll find a long local history, the circular route to Monte Coronato and the Orrido di Botri nature reserve. The approximate duration of the hike and the reserve’s seasonally regulated visitor conditions are particularly relevant for your planning. Montefegatesi can be reached by two roads; as road conditions can change, check them before setting off.

Rocky landscape and nature reserve

The Orrido di Botri biogenetic nature reserve is located near Montefegatesi and was established in 1971. In the upper Fegana basin, the gorge forms where the Mariana and Ribellino streams meet to create the Rio Pelago river. Montefegatesi is an access point to the reserve; access is seasonal and regulated. Check the current conditions before visiting.

History, church and Dante

The name Montefegatesi first appears in a document in the archiepiscopal archives dating to 983, and again in another document from 991. Historically, the village served as a strategic outpost of the Republic of Lucca on the border with the territory of Modena. The parish church of Montefegatesi is dedicated to San Frediano Vescovo and dates back to the 13th century.

The Dante Alighieri monument was erected in 1908; the bust is by Francesco Petroni, a sculptor from Lucca. From the monument, you can see Rondinaio, Tre Potenze and Mosca. The story of Dante is also part of the local lore, though only as a local legend: he is said to have passed through Montefegatesi while fleeing Florentine assassins, and to have found inspiration for the Inferno while crossing the Orrido di Botri.

Hiking to Monte Coronato

A circular route connects Montefegatesi with Monte Coronato, taking you up the 1,218-metre mountain. The varied landscape along the route has been shaped by a long history of human use. The route also passes through the Mulini di Montefegatesi area, with its old ruins, streams and small waterfalls.

The circular route is rated E+ (slightly difficult). For fit, well-equipped hikers, it takes approximately four to five hours; the difficulty and duration may vary depending on conditions. This time estimate is a guide for planning your hiking day and applies to the hiking profile described. Check trail conditions locally before setting off.

Places to stop along the way

There are several places to stop along the route, including agriturismi and farms. Meals are available, and local products such as honey, chestnut flour, cheese and ricotta are also sold. Offerings and product selection may vary by season. If you plan to stop somewhere, check what is available for the dates of your visit.

Discover more destinations: Longoio-Mobbiano, Pieve Di Monti Di Villa, Lucchio, Benabbio, Granaiola, Scesta, Crasciana, Lugliano.

Back to the main travel overview: Bagni Di Lucca.