Birillina Guest House

Hey, I'm Laura

Laura and Silvio are the managers of the Birillina Guest House. After leaving Florence thirty years ago, they chose Garfagnana as their new home, drawn by the wild nature and the slow pace of this valley. With dedication, they have sustainably renovated their dispersed residence, using natural materials and implementing environmentally friendly solutions. They live a simple and authentic lifestyle, tending to their vegetable garden, making cheese, restoring wood, and engaging in gardening, particularly with the hydrangeas in their garden called “Peripato.” Accompanying them on this journey are Zoe, their large dog affectionately known as "Birillina," and Gigi, the house cat, who help make the hospitality feel even more homey. Their philosophy is to provide hospitality that respects nature and the local culture, giving guests the chance to experience Garfagnana in an authentic and mindful way.

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The Garfagnana, nestled between the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, is a valley that retains the charm of its historical and natural roots. Here, landscapes alternate between chestnut forests, flowering meadows, clear rivers, and tranquil lakes, creating an ideal environment for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is a land that encourages a slower pace of life, where time seems to slow down, and every view offers genuine emotions.

The medieval villages scattered throughout the valley tell the stories of ancient mountain communities. Notable among them are Barga, with its cobbled streets and Romanesque cathedral, Castelnuovo di Garfagnana featuring the Ariostesque Fortress, and San Romano with its impressive Verrucole Fortress. There are also hermitages and Romanesque churches, often hidden in the woods, that preserve centuries of spirituality and culture.

The region is also rich in underground natural wonders: the Grotta del Vento and the Antro del Corchia present spectacular scenes filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and tunnels that reveal the hidden essence of the mountains. For adventure seekers, activities such as trekking in the Apuan Alps, canyoning, rafting along the rushing streams, e-bike excursions, and rock climbing are readily available.

Garfagnana is also home to a genuine culinary tradition. Here, products like IGP spelt, Formenton 8-row corn, chestnut flour, potato bread, honey, mushrooms, and trout reflect the strong agricultural identity of the valley. In local restaurants and village festivals, one can enjoy simple and hearty dishes that are tied to the seasons and rural culture.

Beyond nature and food, the area holds a rich heritage of folk traditions, festivals, and events that allow for a connection with the authentic spirit of the local community. Historic routes such as the Via Vandelli and the Via Francigena traverse the valley, offering evocative paths that combine history, spirituality, and scenic beauty.

Thus, Garfagnana is a place that surprises and captivates: an invitation to slow down, take a deep breath, and immerse oneself in a powerful and generous nature, amidst spectacular views, ancient villages, and sincere hospitality that makes one feel right at home.