The quaint village of Borgo a Mozzano is home to a clutch of historic churches as well as pretty café- and restaurant-lined streets. Wander along the banks of the Serchio River to the asymmetric Ponte della MaddalenaOpens in a new window and discover the interesting legend behind the bridge’s construction. Amble slowly around the small village centre and revel in the relaxed atmosphere.
Most people come to this riverside village to admire the majestic medieval Ponte della Maddalena. This 12th-century bridge is made up of arches of varying sizes, with the largest one dominating the 131-foot (40-metre) long structure. Ask the residents of the village about its construction. The story goes that it was completed after the local people made a deal with the devil to help them finish it in exchange for the soul of the first person to cross it. Take your camera along to this attraction as the unusual-shaped bridge makes an excellent backdrop for photographs.
Make your way into the heart of the village and stop for a coffee and a fresh pastry at one of the charming cafés here. Look for the Church of St. Jacopo, which is known for its tall, stone bell tower. Examine the arched portals and clock face of the exterior and go inside to inspect the engraved 16th-century baptismal font.
Elsewhere in town, the Baroque façade of the Convent of St. Francis is another highlight. Gaze up at the round stained-glass window and walk through the arched cloisters.
Beyond the narrow streets and alleyways of the village, winding paths lead through the thick mountainous woodland that surround the Serchio Valley. Find a quiet spot in the shade or sit in the grass under the warm sun and enjoy superb views over the village and along the river.
Borgo a Mozzano is 12 miles (20 kilometres) north of Lucca. Visit here on a daytrip or stay overnight at one of the guesthouses or holiday rentals in town.
