Pratovecchio, now merged with Stia into the municipality of Pratovecchio Stia, is a jewel of Tuscany nestled in the heart of Casentino, the valley traversed by the first stretch of the Arno river. Its location is strategically important as a privileged access point to the Casentinesi Forests, Monte Falterona and Campigna National Park. This location is renowned for its deep spirituality and history, linked to figures like St. Francis (La Verna) and St. Romuald (Camaldoli), and for a landscape dominated by ancient parish churches and millennial forests. It is the ideal place for slow, cultural, and nature tourism.

What our local experts recommend seeing: Spirituality and History

• Parish Church of San Pietro a Romena (Pieve di San Pietro a Romena) – A splendid example of Romanesque architecture in Tuscany, with a strong spiritual and historical connection.
• Monastery of Camaldoli (Monastero di Camaldoli) – The sacred hermitage founded by St. Romuald, nestled in the forest, a place of peace and contemplation.
• Romena Castle (Castello di Romena) – Imposing ruins offering a magnificent view of the valley and often hosting cultural events.
• Casentinesi Forests Park – Hiking trails to discover the oldest beech forests in Europe (UNESCO Heritage).

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Acquacotta Casentinese – A simple but tasty dish, a soup based on vegetables and stale bread, often enriched with an egg.
• Red Potatoes of Cetica (Patate Rosse di Cetica) – Slow Food Presidium, an ancient and very flavorful variety of red potato.
• Marzuolo Truffle (Tartufo Marzuolo) – Typical of the Casentinesi forests, used to enrich local dishes.
• Raviggiolo Cheese – Fresh soft cheese, a symbol of the Apennine dairy tradition.

Experiences and Activities selected by our travel designers

• Trekking in the Lama Forest (Foresta della Lama) – An unforgettable excursion through the wildest part of the Casentinesi Park.
• Visit to the Hermitage of Camaldoli (Eremo di Camaldoli) – An experience of immersion in monastic spirituality and history.
• Casentinese Crafts – Particularly textiles and wrought iron works, testimonies of ancient traditions.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Pratovecchio Stia
• Official Casentinesi Forests National Park Website

Top 3 Recommended Accommodations

• Agriturismo Il Borgo di Villa Cellaia – Offers a charming stay in a rural and historic setting.
• Albergo San Francesco – Near the Monastery, an excellent choice for tranquility and immersion in nature.
• Hotel Falterona – Cozy structure, ideal for hikers in the Park.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Ristorante Mulino di Luscignano – Traditional Casentinese cuisine with seasonal ingredients in a rustic setting.
• Bistrot del Castello di Romena – Perfect for a lunch with a view and local flavors.
• Ristorante Vecchia Cantina – Known for dishes based on truffles and porcini mushrooms from the forest.