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Guided Tours of Tuscany Marble Quarries: Definitely Worth It!
I know, I know, the marble quarries of Carrara may not be the most renowned attraction in Tuscany, despite being the source of the exquisite marble that Michelangelo used for his iconic David. I assume that had I not explored this unique part of northern Tuscany, I likely wouldn’t have considered this to be an interesting attraction. But it really is!
The Garfagnana and the Apuan Alps, a rugged and hilly area in northern Tuscany, presents a stark contrast to the more popular destinations like Siena or the Orcia Valley. Here, the gentle, rolling hills typical of Tuscany, adorned with vineyards, give way to imposing peaks that create a captivating and distinctive landscape.
Credit: Ariela Bankier/Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist
This region is rugged and enigmatic, yet also serene and untouched—a true paradise for nature enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers alike. This is where Tuscans flock to hike, raft, and engage in a variety of adventurous pursuits.
Marble quarry tours in Tuscany
The only way to explore the caves is with a guided tour. There are a number of options, including Carrara Marble Tours, Marmo Tour Michlengelo, and Cave di Marmo Tours, among others,.
Our tour of the quarries took place on a clear spring day, and we were lucky enough to be alone in the jeep; it was just myself and Y., my partner in crime and fellow hedonist. Accompanied by Gabriele, our knowledgeable yet somewhat moody guide, we spent 2.5 delightful hours navigating trails reserved exclusively for miners (and, it seems, our guide's jeep). We reveled in breathtaking, monumental views while absorbing fascinating insights into the world of marble.
Credit: Ariela Bankier/Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist
Did you know, for example, that some yogurts contain marble dust?
credit: Ariela Bankier/Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist
The drivers of the massive trucks transporting marble are true acrobats. They skillfully maneuver 15-ton trucks along incredibly narrow and winding roads in this mountainous region. Navigating these perilously tight paths while handling trucks filled to capacity with hundreds of tons of marble requires remarkable skill and expertise!
Credit: Ariela Bankier/Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist
Credit: Ariela Bankier/Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist
If you need some help with building the perfect itinerary in this area, and booking the right tour for your group, simply email us at ariela@hamagaf.com
To discover other top attractions and activities in Tuscany, as well as top tips about the best shops, restaurants, wine tours and panoramic spots, consult our best selling travel guide, Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist 2024.
