The Devil’s Bridge, or Ponte Della Maddalena
This blog post introduces you to a video that I shot specifically for our place in Tuscany, to highlight The Devil’s Bridge, or Ponte Della Maddalena. It’s also part of our You Ask, We Answer series, where we answer tonnes of FAQs and give you lots of information to help you get the most out of your Tuscan stay with us.
At Woodfarm Barns & Barges, we understand that planning the perfect getaway involves many questions and uncertainties. To help you navigate through these and to ensure you have the best experience possible, we’ve launched our ‘You Ask, We Answer’ initiative. This approach isn’t just about promoting our Barns, Cottages and Barges; it’s about providing valuable information, solutions, and peace of mind to our prospective guests.
We have lots of ideas for days out and about from Casa Trebbio.
Anyway, this is the video, and the transcript is below it if you wish to go back over anything.
This is what I said…
Discovering the Fascinating Devil’s Bridge Near Casa Trebbio
Welcome to another insight into the beautiful surroundings near Casa Trebbio, our holiday home just outside Lucca in Tuscany. In this post, I want to introduce you to The Devil’s Bridge, or as it is traditionally known, Ponte della Maddalena. This historic landmark is only about 25 minutes from Casa Trebbio, and it’s an incredible spot to visit during your stay.
The Legend of The Devil’s Bridge
The bridge itself has an intriguing legend attached to it. According to local folklore, the builder of the bridge found it difficult to complete and made a deal with the devil to finish the construction. In exchange, the devil demanded the soul of the first being to cross it. Fortunately, the story goes that the locals tricked the devil by sending an animal, possibly a dog or a pig, across first! Whether you believe the tale or not, the bridge is a marvel of ancient engineering and adds to the mystical charm of the area.
Exploring the Area Around The Bridge
The Devil’s Bridge is set in a scenic location with a number of quaint bars nearby. My personal favourite is the one with the red umbrellas, which I often visit to enjoy a refreshing beer. They sometimes serve little snacks like bread and cheese, which adds to the relaxed, cosy atmosphere. You can also grab a bite to eat at these bars if you’re feeling peckish.
The bridge itself is a pedestrian-only walkway, and although the climb is quite steep and the surface a bit uneven, it’s well worth the effort. The views from the top are breathtaking, and as you make your way up, you’ll notice the river Serchio below, which flows all the way down towards Ponte a Serraglio. Depending on the season, the river’s water levels can vary greatly. I’ve seen it both full and almost dry, as the local energy company, Enel, manages the water flow with dams along the river.
A Walk With a View
One thing to note as you walk up the bridge is that the walls are relatively low, so you’ll want to watch your step! The views of the surrounding houses perched on the hillside and the railway line in the distance make it an interesting place to explore. As you look up towards the Apuan Alps, you’ll spot the village of Abetone, a well-known ski resort just over an hour from Casa Trebbio. Even though Tuscany is famed for its sunshine and wine, it’s also home to some amazing ski spots during the winter!
A Must-Visit While Staying at Casa Trebbio
Whether you’re fascinated by legends, love scenic walks, or just want to take in the local charm, Ponte della Maddalena is definitely a place to add to your itinerary. It’s one of the many gems of the area and gives you a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Tuscany while soaking in a bit of history.
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Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you in the next post!
