How to Plan Your Colonnata Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Jeep

If you’re looking for an adventurous experience while also learning about the excavation process of Carrara marble, then the Colonnata Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Jeep is the perfect activity for you. This tour takes you on a journey through the winding roads of the Colonnata Valley, where you will have the opportunity to look inside the vast white wounds that open up on the wild slopes of Carrara. This ultimate guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your tour to the Carrara marble quarries in Colonnata, Italy.

Experience

The Colonnata Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Jeep provides you with an opportunity to experience the unique and stunning views of the vast white marble quarries located in the Tuscan hills. During the tour, you will ride in a 4×4 Jeep with an experienced and knowledgeable local guide who will take you to the different active quarries of up to 1000 meters above sea level. You will get in touch with the people, places, and machinery of an ancient tradition and learn about the old and modern excavation process.

Highlights

There are several highlights of the Colonnata Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Jeep that make this activity a must-do when visiting Colonnata.

Adventurous Jeep Tour

The tour is an adventurous Jeep tour that takes you through the winding roads of the Colonnata Valley, providing stunning views of the Tuscan hills.

Learn about the Excavation Process

During the tour, you will learn about the excavation process of the Carrara marble quarries. You will get detailed explanations about the old and modern excavation process and how the quarries have provided marble to towns and cities across Italy for more than 2000 years.

Taste Delicious Lardo di Colonnata

The tour also takes you to taste the delicious Lardo di Colonnata IGP, a type of salumi made with pork fatback that matures in white Carrara marble basins. Lardo di Colonnata is a traditional speciality of Colonnata and is considered a gourmet food.

Full Description

The Colonnata Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Jeep starts with a panoramic stop at a terraced quarry in the Miseglia Valley, where you can take pictures of the stunning views. Here, you will see how the marble quarries are integrated into the landscape and how they have transformed the Tuscan hills. After the panoramic stop, you will continue the tour by driving to the different active quarries of up to 1000 meters above sea level. You will get in touch with the people, places, and machinery of an ancient tradition and learn about the old and modern excavation process. During the tour, the guide will provide detailed explanations about the excavation process and how the quarries have provided marble to towns and cities across Italy for more than 2000 years. You will also learn about the history of the marble used to build the Pantheon and Trajan’s Column in Ancient Rome along with many sculptures of the Renaissance. The tour also includes a visit to a unique underground quarry, where you can look inside the vast white wounds that open up on the wild slopes of Carrara. Before heading back to Colonnata, the tour stops for a Lardo di Colonnata IGP tasting. Lardo di Colonnata is a traditional delicacy of Colonnata made with pork fatback that matures in white Carrara marble basins. It is considered a gourmet food and is a must-try when visiting Colonnata.

How to Book

To book the Colonnata Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Jeep, visit book here. It is recommended to book in advance to guarantee availability. The tour is suitable for all ages, and no previous experience is necessary.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous experience, consider booking the Colonnata Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Jeep during your visit to Colonnata, Italy. You’ll enjoy stunning views of the Tuscan hills while learning about the excavation process of Carrara marble and tasting delicious Lardo di Colonnata. Book your tour in advance to guarantee availability and enjoy this unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Colonnata, Italy

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you may be considering visiting Colonnata, a small village in the Tuscany region of Italy. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.

1. Where is Colonnata located?

Colonnata is located in the Tuscany region of Italy, about 120 kilometers northwest of Florence. It is situated on a hilltop about 500 meters above sea level in the Apuan Alps and is known for its beautiful scenery and traditional foods, particularly lardo di Colonnata.

2. What is lardo di Colonnata?

Lardo di Colonnata is a traditional cured meat made in Colonnata. It is made from strips of pig fat that are salted and then aged for at least six months in marble containers. It has a creamy texture and a rich, slightly salty flavor that makes it a favorite of foodies and chefs.

3. What are some of the top things to do in Colonnata?

Some of the top things to do in Colonnata include visiting the marble quarries, hiking in the Apuan Alps, exploring the village and its historic buildings, and trying the local cuisine. You can also take a guided tour of a lardo di Colonnata producer to learn about the history and process of making this famous product.

4. Can I visit the marble quarries in Colonnata?

Yes, visitors can take organized tours of the marble quarries in Colonnata. The tours are led by experienced guides and offer a unique chance to see where the world-famous Carrara marble is mined. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear and dress for the weather, as it can be chilly and damp in the quarries.

5. When is the best time to visit Colonnata?

The best time to visit Colonnata is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. In the summer, the village can become crowded with visitors, and temperatures can soar, making it less pleasant to explore.

6. How do I get to Colonnata?

The easiest way to get to Colonnata is to fly into Pisa International Airport, which is about 70 kilometers from the village. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus or train to Lucca, which is about 25 kilometers from Colonnata. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or hire a private driver from Pisa.

7. Are there accommodations in Colonnata?

Yes, there are several accommodations in Colonnata, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. It’s best to book your accommodations in advance, particularly during the high season when rooms can fill up quickly.

8. What is the currency used in Colonnata?

The currency used in Colonnata, as in the rest of Italy, is the Euro (EUR). It’s best to bring some cash with you, as not all businesses accept credit cards, particularly in the smaller villages like Colonnata.

9. What are some traditional dishes to try in Colonnata?

In addition to lardo di Colonnata, there are many other traditional dishes to try in Colonnata. Some favorites include pasta with porcini mushrooms, tortelli stuffed with ricotta and spinach, and roasted chestnuts. The village is also known for its desserts, particularly chestnut cake and castagnaccio, a type of chestnut flour cake.

10. Is Colonnata wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, Colonnata is not wheelchair accessible, as it is situated on a hilltop and has narrow, steep streets. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging to navigate the village and its sights.

11. What are some nearby attractions to visit?

There are several nearby attractions to visit from Colonnata, including the cities of Lucca and Pisa, the beaches of Viareggio, and the picturesque village of Barga. You can also explore the Apuan Alps Natural Park, which offers stunning views and hiking trails.

12. Is English widely spoken in Colonnata?

While some residents of Colonnata may speak English, it is not widely spoken, particularly in the more rural areas of the village. It’s a good idea to learn some basic Italian phrases before your trip, or bring a phrasebook or translation app to help you communicate.

Book Your Tour Now

Colonnata is a charming and picturesque village in the Tuscany region of Italy. Whether you’re interested in food, history, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of the country. By following these frequently asked questions, you’ll be well on your way to planning an unforgettable trip to Colonnata.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Colonnata, Italy

Colonnata is a small village nestled in the Tuscan mountains near Carrara. Known for its unique delicacy, Lardo di Colonnata, the town is a hidden gem that offers tourists a unique experience. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top things to do and see in Colonnata and how to make the most of your visit.

1. Visit the Marble Quarries

One of the most popular attractions in Colonnata is the Carrara Marble Quarries. These massive marble pits date back to ancient Roman times and are still active to this day. You can take a guided tour of the quarries and see firsthand how the marble is extracted from the mountainside. You’ll also get an up-close look at the massive machines used to cut the marble into blocks, which can weigh several tons.

2. Sample Lardo di Colonnata

The village is famous for its unique delicacy, Lardo di Colonnata. This cured meat is made from the back fat of pigs and is seasoned with salt, pepper, rosemary, and other herbs. You can sample Lardo di Colonnata at one of the many restaurants in the village or purchase it from a local producer.

3. Visit the Church of San Bartolomeo

The Church of San Bartolomeo is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Completed in the 12th century, the church is located in the heart of the village and was restored in the 16th century. Inside, you’ll find several frescoes and a beautiful altar that is well worth a visit.

4. Explore the Natural Beauty of the Region

Colonnata is located in the Tuscan mountains, surrounded by beautiful scenery. You can go on a hike through the mountains or take a drive along the winding roads to take in the views. There are several hiking trails that lead through the mountains, including one that takes you to the summit of Monte Sagro.

5. Attend the Lardo Festival

Every year, Colonnata hosts the Lardo Festival, a two-day celebration of the village’s most famous product. The festival features local food stalls, live music, and of course, plenty of Lardo di Colonnata. If you’re visiting the village in August, be sure to plan your trip around the festival.

6. Take a Cooking Class

If you’re a foodie, consider taking a cooking class in Colonnata. You can learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes using local ingredients, including Lardo di Colonnata. Many of the cooking classes are held in local homes, giving you an authentic experience of Italian life.

7. Visit the Marble Museum

The Marble Museum in Carrara is a great place to learn about the history of marble production in the region. The museum features exhibits on the geology of the area, the tools used to extract marble, and the artists who have used Carrara marble in their creations.

Book Your Tour Now

Colonnata may be a small village, but it’s packed with unique attractions and experiences. From exploring the marble quarries to sampling Lardo di Colonnata, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of Tuscany. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or a nature lover, Colonnata is a must-visit destination in Italy.