Abetone Forest Botanical Garden
Via del Brennero 49, Fontana Vaccaia, 51021 Abetone Cutigliano (PT), Italy
Set at around 1,300 metres in the Upper Sestaione Valley, the Abetone Forest Botanical Garden is a living introduction to the plant life of the northern Apennines. Its paths bring together mountain flowers, medicinal and carnivorous plants, mature woodland species and the cool, clear waters of the Sestaione stream.
The garden is especially valuable for the alpine species that reach the southern edge of their natural range here. Among its highlights is Norway spruce, a botanical survivor of the last glaciation that still regenerates naturally in the nearby Campolino Reserve. The educational centre at Fontana Vaccaia adds scientific and interpretive context to the outdoor collections.
Visiting in 2026: open from 27 June to 6 September, Tuesday to Sunday, 09:30–12:30 and 15:00–18:00. Guided visits start at 09:30, 10:30, 11:30, 15:00, 16:00 and 17:00. The garden closes in bad weather, so checking conditions before travelling is recommended.
Sources: Ecomuseo della Montagna Pistoiese; Comune di Abetone Cutigliano; Visit Pistoia; Wikimedia Commons image and coordinates.
