An 85-kilometre loop through breathtaking landscapes, historic villages, and artistic and natural treasures in the Bolognese Apennines — a perfect adventure for e-bike lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike.
The route is divided into 3 stages for e-bikers and 6 stages for hikers, starting and ending in Vergato. The trails are well-marked and maintained by CAI (Italian Alpine Club), and while they are suitable for e-bikes, they are not recommended for gravel bikes.
The journey begins in Vergato, riding along Provincial Road 24 toward Grizzana Morandi. After the first climb, you’ll reach Cà Piretti, where stunning views open up over the Reno Valley and Corno alle Scale. From here, follow CAI Trail 174, which enters the protected area of the Monte Sole Regional Park. At this point, you can choose between a challenging trail for experienced bikers, climbing towards Mount Pezza, or an easier trail with a compact surface, suitable for less experienced riders. Both paths lead to Grizzana Morandi, where you can visit key landmarks connected to the painter Giorgio Morandi, such as the Campiaro Barns and his House Museum. The journey continues on the flat, paved CAI 100 trail, leading to the Monument to the South African Fallen Soldiersof World War II. Riding along the ridge with panoramic views of the Reno and Setta valleys, you’ll reach Mount Vigoand Mount Montovolo, home to the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Consolation and the Oratory of Saint Catherine of Alexandria.The stage ends with a descent towards Riola. You can choose the more technical CAI 039 trail or take the paved road toward Campolo, which rejoins the main path after about 1 km. Along the way, admire the village of Campolo and the ancient hamlet of La Scola. Before reaching your destination, catch a glimpse of the majestic Rocchetta Mattei and the modern Alvar Aalto Church, a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture.
This stage begins with a long climb. Leaving Riola, the trail passes near the Tarot Museum and the medieval fortress of Costonzo. Continuing on, you skirt the base of the massif that hides the Soprasasso Caves, accessible via a short walking detour. Between the Reno and Aneva valleys, the path gently rises and falls, becoming more technical near the Aneva stream, where you can admire the stunning Labante Waterfalls and cave formations.After crossing the provincial road, a final demanding climb leads to Castel d’Aiano, passing through oak and chestnut forests—rich with porcini mushrooms in late spring and early autumn. A quick visit to the old town offers the chance to explore the Museum of the Gothic Line Stories. The route continues toward Rocca di Roffeno, following the ridgelines that once marked the Gothic Line during World War II. After stopping at the military observatory on Mount Spe’, descend into the Vergatello Valley to reach Santa Lucia, where you’ll find an ancient Abbey and the Museum of Rural Life. From there, the trail leads to the historic village of Lamari, and one last steep ascent brings you to the summit of Mount Rocca, with its breathtaking views. The stage ends with a steep descent into Rocca di Roffeno, where you can visit traditional Appennine tower houses, unique examples of local architecture.
This final stage is an open-air art experience, featuring over 100 works of art, including paintings and sculptures scattered along the route. Departing from Rocca di Roffeno, follow CAI Trail 176 toward the ancient village of Pieve di Roffeno and its historic Church of San Pietro. The path climbs up to the hamlet of Amore. After crossing the provincial road and the village, it joins CAI 201, turning into a pleasant series of rolling hills until reaching Tolè—known as the “village of art and fountains.” The trail continues uphill to the Alpine Chapel of Madonna della Neve and a set of restored German trenches from WWII, before descending gently through forests and meadows to Cereglio. After crossing the village and enjoying views of Suzzano, continue southeast on CAI 150, entering the Monte Pero forest, a natural oasis where wild peonies and orchids bloom. You’ll also come across more trench remains and fortified positions from the Second World War. A final descent leads to the Church of Liserna and into Vergato’s historic center, where the loop trail comes to a close.
Check the official website regularly for updates on special events and possible route changes.
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The route winds along paths, dirt roads or cobbled streets and short paved sections.
Technical cycling clothing
First aid kit
GPS navigation system
Telephone and charger + power bank
E-bike charging stations are located in Labante (on the provincial road near the caves), in Castel d’Aiano (town hall square) and in Rocca di Roffeno (opposite the bar).
The trail is accessible all year-round, but the best times to visit are in spring—when wildflowers are in bloom and the weather is mild—and in early autumn
Credentials are available to collect stamps at each stage. You can purchase them at the eXtraBO info point in Piazza del Nettuno (BO).