Barga is a beautiful, medieval town with a population
of about 5000, set in spectacular mountain scenery in Northern Tuscany.
It nestles on the hillside above the valley of the River Serchio
and looks out to the West over the white marble and limestone peaks
of the Apuan Alps, and to the East over the peaks of Apennine chain.
Dominated by its eleventh century cathedral (il Duomo),
the town is a delight, and will repay close exploration of its narrow
cobbled streets and small atmospheric squares.
The town has the facilities you would expect from a cosmopolitan
spot which historically has attracted, and today continues to
attract, those who wish to experience the essence of Tuscany without
necessarily having to confront mass tourism.
All the
local shops, including a supermarket, are within walking distance. There
is also a small, friendly, general store seconds away from the apartment.
The town has several cafes and excellent restaurants.
Excellent leisure facilities include a fine swimming pool and tennis
courts. There is also access to such sporting activities as horse riding,
hill/mountain climbing, skiing in the winter, fishing and rambling in
the countryside.
For those
who must have their golf, there is a prototype affiliated golf facility
at the Golf Club of Garfagnana, 30 minutes from the town. Down in the
valley the 'Skylab' nightclub is a popular venue for disco seekers.
The
town is a base for artists, musicians, historians and those who, quite
simply, appreciate Barga's and the Serchio Valley's particular combination
of past and present.
