The best walks and hikes around Vagli Sotto
4.4
(778)
2,988
hikers
30
hikes
Hiking around Vagli Sotto offers diverse terrain within Italy's Garfagnana region, situated between the Apuan Alps and the Tusco-Emilian Apennines. The landscape features towering peaks reaching around 2000 meters, extensive forests, and significant waterways. A central feature is Lake Vagli, an artificial lake created by a dam on the Edron River. The area provides a range of physical challenges, from lakeside paths to demanding mountain ascents.
Best hiking trails around Vagli Sotto
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Vagli…
Last updated: November 2, 2026
4.4
(64)
249
hikers
5.16km
01:23
70m
60m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(83)
291
hikers
14.5km
06:54
1,140m
1,140m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(23)
101
hikers
9.89km
04:31
830m
830m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(29)
143
hikers
14.1km
05:36
900m
900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.1
(15)
61
hikers
Moderate hike. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
The construction of the hydroelectric dam, designed by Count Eng. Ignazio Prinetti Castelletti, began in 1941, slowed down during wartime, and was completed in 1947 under the supervision of SELT Valdarno (now Enel). In the period 1951-53, the dam was raised by about 30 m, bringing the overall height to about 88-92 m. The ordinary arch and gravity dam, built in concrete, has a crest 150 m long and 5 m wide, while the width at foundation level is about 70 m. The crest is accessible to the public all year round. The lake, artificially formed in 1947 by damming the Edron stream, constitutes the dam's reservoir. Upon filling, the rising lake waters submerged some villages, the main one being Fabbriche di Careggine, a small village of blacksmiths from Brescia, founded in the 13th century, which re-emerges with every emptying of the basin. Since the Vajont disaster, the basin has not been filled beyond 80% of its maximum capacity. The basin holds about 35 million cubic meters of water and is exceptionally emptied in case maintenance intervention is necessary. This has happened four times: in 1958, 1974, 1983, and 1994. In the latter year, almost 1 million tourists from all over the world arrived in Vagli.
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The Eremo di San Viviano (or San Viano) is a suggestive place of worship carved into the rock, located on the eastern slopes of Monte Roccandagia, in the municipality of Vagli di Sotto (LU) in Garfagnana, at about 1090 meters above sea level. It is an excellent example of spontaneous architecture or "rock shelter sanctuary". It is a chapel embedded in an overhanging rock face, closed by stone and lime walls, with the roof formed by the rock itself. Place of life of the hermit San Viano (15th-16th century), patron saint of the Apuan Alps Park, protector of shepherds and quarrymen. Reaching the Eremo is not very easy by bicycle as once the tracks are finished, you have to descend a steep path for over 800m, which then has to be climbed back up. Very often water flows along the path coming from the mountain above and there are an infinite number of stones on the ground, but the effort of the descent and subsequent ascent is rewarded by the place and the atmosphere that you breathe at the Eremo, and then there is the stone on which the Blessed Viviano prayed, where you can sit to meditate or pray.
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Currently closed due to construction work
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A fantastic bridge with a fantastic view of the reservoir. There are also a few glass panels in the middle of the bridge, but due to the pattern, they're not quite as transparent.
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There are some statues of current / Trump and past people here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Vagli Sotto?
There are over 25 hiking routes around Vagli Sotto. These include 6 easy trails, 10 moderate routes, and 10 difficult paths, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Vagli Sotto?
The terrain around Vagli Sotto is highly diverse, ranging from gentle lakeside paths around Lake Vagli to challenging ascents in the Apuan Alps. You'll encounter extensive forests, dramatic mountain peaks, and significant waterways, with elevations reaching around 2000 meters.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Vagli Sotto?
Yes, Vagli Sotto offers several family-friendly options. Easy routes, such as the Lake Vagli - Ring tour, are suitable for all ages and provide pleasant walks along the lake's banks. The VagliPark also offers adventure activities like a suspension bridge and zip line.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking?
Hikers can explore several unique natural features. The artificial Lake Vagli itself is a central attraction. The Apuan Alps provide a dramatic backdrop, and you might encounter the Monte Forato Natural Arch, a distinctive rock formation. For a historical curiosity, the submerged village of Fabbriche di Careggine occasionally re-emerges from Lake Vagli during dam maintenance.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. Experienced trekkers can tackle difficult routes like the Mount Tambura Summit – Tambura Pass loop from Vagli Sopra. This route ascends Monte Tambura, the second-highest peak in the Apuan Alps, offering extensive mountain views and a significant elevation gain.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Vagli Sotto?
The hiking trails in Vagli Sotto are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from serene lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents, and the stunning views of the Apuan Alps and Lake Vagli.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, many routes around Vagli Sotto are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Tambura Pass – Tambura Pass loop from Pozza dell' Arnetola, which takes you through the Apuan Alps.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest accessible by hiking?
Yes, you can hike to historical sites such as the San Viano Hermitage, nestled in a rock face overlooking the Valle di Arnetola. It's reachable via a steep mule track from the Natura di Campocatino trail. You can also explore routes that follow sections of the historic 18th-century Via Vandelli.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Vagli Sotto?
The best time to hike in Vagli Sotto is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable for exploring both the lakeside paths and the higher mountain trails. Summer offers warmer temperatures, while spring and autumn provide pleasant conditions with vibrant foliage.
Are there any specific attractions near the trails that are worth visiting?
Beyond the trails, you can visit the Lake Vagli and the Ghost Town. Additionally, the Lake and Dam of Vicaglia and the Grotta del Vento (Wind Cave) are notable nearby attractions.
Are there any hikes that offer views of Monte Tambura?
Many routes in the Apuan Alps provide views of Monte Tambura. For a direct experience, the Mount Tambura Summit – Campocatino Mountain Village loop from Vagli Sopra offers impressive vistas of this prominent peak and its surroundings.
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Most popular attractions around Vagli Sotto
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