Pian Di Novello: Beech Forest Route and Snowshoe Loop

When planning a stay in Pian di Novello, the destinations described offer a range of options: a forest trail through a beech forest, a snowshoe loop hike to Monte Poggione, a viewpoint, and activities focused on nature education and art. If you are looking for a hotel, considering which of these activities you want to shape your trip can be a useful first step.

Loop Trail Through the Beech Forest

The “Itinerario della Faggeta” begins at Piazzale di Piandinovello. The 15-kilometre loop follows a forest road entirely through a beech forest and is rated easy. At the same time, it has numerous climbs and descents; for this reason, it is described as particularly suitable for mountain biking. Both its easy rating and its varied terrain are part of this route’s character.

After about three kilometres, hikers reach the Rifugio Lippi (Lagacciolo) hut. There, they can refill their water at a fresh spring and take a break. The hut is a named stopping point on the loop, while the starting point, length, and route type define the trail as a whole.

Viewpoint and Rest Area

Prato Bellincioni offers a different focus from the marked routes: it is a natural terrace and rest area with a table, benches, and a fire pit. The view from there extends to almost 360 degrees. If you would like to consider a scenic spot for a break or a view across the surrounding area as well as a trail, this location offers a specific point of reference.

Nature Education and Art

The “Fior di Pietra” visitor centre has a classroom used for environmental education events and screenings of nature films. The centre is open seasonally or in connection with events. If a visit is important to your travel plans, schedule it around the seasonal opening period or event dates, and check these in advance.

The installation “Un teatro per Beatrice” adds an artistic touch, offering a stage for performances, poetry readings, and sketches. Together with the visitor centre, it adds another area of interest alongside the routes and viewpoint. While the classroom focuses on environmental education and nature films, the installation is intended for various forms of performance.

Snowshoe Loop Hike to Monte Poggione

The “Ciaspolata CAI – Anello di Pian di Novello” starts in Pian di Novello and leads to Monte Poggione. At 1,754 metres, it is the highest point on this route. Its clearly named starting point and destination at the highest point give this snowshoe loop hike a different profile from the “Itinerario della Faggeta”: the latter centres on a forest road and beech forest, while this route focuses on snowshoeing and Monte Poggione as its destination. When choosing your outing, the planned activity and the type of route you want may therefore be decisive.

Road Directions for Trip Planning

For access to the Piano degli Ontani Biogenetic Nature Reserve, the described route from Pistoia initially follows the SR 66 and SS 12 as far as Casotti di Cutigliano. There, the SP 20 branches off towards Pian Ontani and Pian di Novello. These directions add a specific route to your outing plans.

Discover more destinations: Piano Degli Ontani

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