From the center of Barga, near the Duomo, we head towards Porta Macchiaia. We take the narrow Via dell’Acquedotto and, at the Church of Fornacetta, we keep to the right. We continue along the same road until we reach a junction where a slightly uphill road on the right, running along a scenic ridge, leads us to the hamlet of Buvicchia. We stay on the paved road until the last houses. When the asphalt ends, a steep trail begins on the right (use caution if the ground is wet), descending to a small ford over the Loppora stream. From there, a forest track leads us easily to the thousand-year-old Pieve di Loppia.
WARNING: Due to a landslide in March 2025, the ancient “Solco” route is impassable. Before reaching the Pieve di Loppia, take a path to the left that will lead you to Filecchio.
We reach the center of the small village of Filecchio and continue on country roads toward Ponte all’Ania.
Shortly after crossing Ponte all’Ania, on the left we find a short but steep pedestrian path that climbs to Piano di Coreglia, first passing the Church of San Lorenzo. We continue straight towards Ghivizzano, which sits visibly on a hill, with its historic center and tower.
From Ghivizzano, we descend toward the Serchio River and cross the road bridge. Extreme caution is advised due to traffic. Just after the bridge, we turn right and, about 100 meters later, cross the road again (caution!) and follow the signs for the dirt path that climbs on the left.
This marks the final climb of the day — demanding, but on a wide and manageable trail. Once at the top, we enjoy a panoramic descent toward Rocca, and from there, it’s all downhill to Borgo a Mozzano, along a mix of paved and dirt roads.
