Day 52 IT Aulla to Sarzana

Aulla to Sarzana

I woke up this morning to thick fog blanketing the hills around Aulla. Visibility was so poor, I had to change my plans. Instead of following my original route, I took a less scenic detour, sticking to the roads for part of the journey. The route ended up being shorter than expected.

By 10 o’clock, the fog had finally lifted, and the sun began burning through the mist, warming the air. The final stretch into the valley was breathtaking. The landscape transformed, growing more vibrant as I passed through small villages, each one more picturesque than the last.

Along the way, I met a few fellow hikers. They were from Holland and had been walking for over 80 days. Starting in their home country, they’d crossed into France, reached Calais, and were now following the Via Francigena all the way to Rome. Their dedication was inspiring, and our brief exchange reminded me of the beauty of slow travel and shared journeys.

Lunigiana Coastal Plain

As I moved through the valley, I entered the Lunigiana Coastal Plain, a region renowned for its fertile land and scenic beauty. The landscape here is a perfect blend of nature and history, with medieval villages dotting the plain, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. It’s a peaceful route, offering plenty of opportunities to pause and soak in the surroundings.

On the approach to Sarzana, I passed the Fortezza di Sarzanello, a 14th-century fortress built by the Genoese to defend against invasions. Perched on a hill, it provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. I spent some time wandering the grounds, admiring both the history and the landscape. If you’re ever in Sarzana, this fortress is a must-see!

Sarzana

When I finally arrived in Sarzana, I was immediately charmed by the town’s blend of mountains and sea. Known for its historical significance and strategic location, Sarzana is a cultural crossroads. Its narrow streets are lined with quaint cafes, shops, and beautiful squares, while the architecture combines medieval and Renaissance influences. Every corner offers a glimpse into the past.

I made my way into the town center and stopped for a coffee and pastry at Bar Massimo. Little did I know, this wasn’t just any ordinary café. The walls were adorned with photos of legendary musicians like BB King, Sting, Robert Plant, and Dave Grohl. Apparently, this is the hangout spot for local musicians when they’re in town. I picked it at random, but I quickly realized I had stumbled onto something special. As I sat there, sipping my coffee, I could feel the history and energy of the place. It’s one of those spots that, once discovered, you can’t help but return to.

While wandering the streets of Sarzana, I also stumbled upon posters for the upcoming Guitar Festival—tonight! The best guitarists from Italy will be competing, and I’m lucky enough to be here for it. It’s amazing how this trip is unfolding—completely unplanned, but full of spontaneous and unforgettable experiences. What a great day! Early start in the morning (depending on how good the guitar players are)!!!! LOL