Hotel Belvedere - Minucciano, Italy 

The Garfagnana is a wonderful region with a mild climate, situated in the north-east of Tuscany, between the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine. More than the 60% of its territory is covered with woods and forests. Almost 20,000 hectares are so-called Sylvas: chestnut woods, dating back to the Middle Ages, when they provided food and timber. Garfagnana’s natural heritage is immense and well preserved, being safeguarded and enhanced by public parks (such as the Apuan Alps Natural Park and the Orecchiella Park) and wildlife shelters (Lipu and WWF).
The historic and architectural heritage is equally important, featuring ancient villages, Romanesque churches, retreats, churches, castles and fortresses that still bear witness to the humbleness and creativity of the population that used to dwell in the Great Sylva, in the dark Medieval Era.