Between hills and plains...
Among the chestnut forests, vineyards, olive groves and fertile farmlands is an area divided into several villages and towns. Lifting up our gaze toward the hills, we find the castles of Massa and Cozzile, while in the plains, we cross Molina, Vacchereccia and Vangile.
Cozzile and its views
Now we’ve got our breath back, our first stop is the Rocca di Cozzile, three kilometres from Massa, known for its well-preserved castle perched on a hill with a spectacular view. We enter the village from the south from Porta di Mezzodì and find ourselves in front of a magnificent terrace from which we enjoy a sweeping view. I gasp... it's amazing. From its alpine location, on particularly clear days, you can see all of Tuscany’s provinces.
Unspoiled nature and fortified towns
Off we go again, we’re travelling along the ancient Romanesque road that connects the old towns of Massa and Cozzile. The road starts at the end of Via Romana and climbs steeply among olive groves and fertile fields. In the distance, we can see the Palazzo De Gubernatis, a massive structure which rests on the ridge. Continuing forward, you can see the town of Massa, one of the oldest fortified centres in the area, once surrounded by walls, of which only some 14th century sections remain. Massa has a main road that connects the fortress with the opposite end of town, where you’ll find the Pieve di S. Maria Assunta and the Palazzo del Podestà, which dates back to the 13th century. Massa also offers glimpses of a truly unique landscape, from the 'Sottolemura’ walk, the view is impressive with the city of Montecatini to the south and the villages of Colle and Buggiano to the east. To the southeast, the Pisan mountains are visible with Monte Serra ensuring, on sunny days, sunsets worthy of a painting. A relaxing break in a small and enchanting corner of Tuscany!
Massa e Cozzile extend into the Tuscany “From Leonardo to Pinocchio”, that
is, from the hills of Vinci and Montalbano to the steep slopes of Collodi. A
land that “is a sort of suspended wonder”.