Vittoria Apuana, the dunes, and Lago di Porta

As always, we begin at the Pontile, opposite the historic Compagnia della Vela. Those traveling by bike can follow the stunning coastal cycle path, passing through Vittoria Apuana and crossing the boundary between Forte dei Marmi and Cinquale, in the municipality of Montignoso (province of Massa Carrara), until reaching the mouth of the Versilia River. This final stretch has been part of the Forte dei Marmi Dunes Protected Natural Area since 2008. It is the only lowland wetland area in northern Tuscany and the only section of the Tuscan coastline where natural dunes coexist with a coastal pine forest. Managed by WWF Alta Toscana, the area is home to many rare coastal plant species, including Solidago litoralis Savi, Centaurea aplolepa subciliata, and the striking Anthemis maritima.

Leaving this peaceful area of villas and gardens behind, we continue along Via Canova and Via Civitali toward the Palazzetto dello Sport, where roller hockey matches are held – a sport in which Forte dei Marmi has achieved both Italian and European titles. Along Via Civitali stands the Ugo Guidi House Museum (1912-1977), filled with sculptures and works of art by the master and professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Carrara, whose works are also exhibited at the Hermitage. One of his sculptures, “Calciatori” (1974), in travertine marble, is displayed at the FIGC technical center in Coverciano.

As you continue inland toward the mountains along the highway, the view unfolds into one of the most stunning panoramas of the Apuan Alps in Versilia. Below, traces remain of the early-20th-century industrial complex of SIPE, once dedicated to the production and export of explosives and gunpowder. Close by are the well-kept grounds of the renowned Versilia Golf Club. This area, originally marshland, borders the Lago di Porta protected natural reserve, a wetland ecosystem that can still be visited today, including through guided tours.

We then return toward the sea, following Via Padre Ignazio da Carrara – the main thoroughfare of Vittoria Apuana – until we reach the Church of San Francesco, fronted by a sculpture by Arturo Dazzi dedicated to the saint.

The name Vittoria Apuana was suggested by Florentine architect Adolfo Coppedè. Its compact town center offers welcoming cafés and places to gather and pause, from which Via Mazzini leads quickly to the beautiful Villa Bertelli. Once the administrative headquarters of SIPE, later transformed into a guesthouse, the villa is now owned by the Municipality of Forte dei Marmi and serves as a venue for exhibitions and cultural events. We conclude the itinerary by continuing along Via Mazzini, heading back to the heart of Forte dei Marmi.