h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I had the *pleasure* of working here for 6 months in 2002. Only take the 3 hour tour if you are interestes in caves, or have no fear of heights whatsoever. Your guide for the 3 hour tour may be smiling, but believe me it's not really all that much fun for us! I would really recommend the 2 hour tour - the one hour tour seems to be over all too quickly and the three hour tour just drags on a little too much. Plus the 2-hour tour is really fun - especially the way I did it!!
If you go there, you can get and english speaking guide no problem ( but in April and August most tours will be Italian-only. If you come out of season it may be possible to request a certain guide. Michela is the best english-speaking guide as she has worked there over 8 years now; she's so friendly and really knows how to explain it, but you'll have to tune in to her accent beforehand as it can be quite strong at times. Otherwise ask for Norah - half Glaswegian, she isn't shy, it's just her way of speaking. If you're Scottish like me, she'll automatically broaden her accent to match yours!

A good place to stay if you're in the Garfagnana is Canaleccia - a gorgeous self-catering apartment about five minutes from Gallicano (not mine - i'm a poor student, I just stayed with the people who run it while I worked at the cave). It's run by Scots who are so nice. Call 0039 0583 760255.

Also if you go to the cave at easter or summer i might be working there again. Ask for the "scoccese" student girl (so you don't confuse me with Norah) - it's pronounced "scotch-ais-ai" and see if i'm there!