Trekking in the Apennines : The Grande Escursione Appenninica

Linking Bocca Trabaria on the Umbrian border to Passo Due Santi on the edge of Liguria, the GEA winds through the heart of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, crossing two National Parks and visiting ancient towns, crystal-clear lakes, and the highest peaks, including Monte Prado, the summit of Tuscany. This comprehensive guide describes the GEA in 23 daily stages (8–25km each), with clear stage gradings, distance, elevation profiles, and estimated walking times. Thanks to excellent public transport links along the route, the GEA can be tackled as a classic three-week trek or enjoyed in shorter, flexible sections, perfect for walkers with limited time or those seeking a taste of Apennine adventure. Follow waymarked mountain paths, forestry tracks, and quiet rural lanes through unspoilt landscapes rich with wildlife, wildflowers, and panoramic Mediterranean views, far from the crowds and deep in authentic Italian countryside. Each stage concludes in an Apennine town or village, offering comfortable guesthouses, alpine refuges, or camping, with comprehensive notes on local accommodation, food, and facilities along the route. Detailed information boxes for every stage cover start and finish points, distances, elevation changes, terrain, estimated times, grades (1–3), and transport options. You'll also find practical tips on preparation, packing, navigation, and safety, plus an English–Italian glossary. Clear sketch maps, elevation profiles, and summary tables support flexible itinerary planning, while sections on the region's history, wildlife, flora, food, and culture enrich your understanding of this remarkable corner of Italy. Plan your journey with guidance on ideal seasons—July–August offers the most reliable walking conditions and open services.