Gessi di Gaibola Cycle Path

Part of the regional Ciclovie dei Parchi network, the Gessi di Gaibola Cycle Path is a half-day hilly route located just outside Bologna. The loop winds through the Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi e Calanchi dell’Abbadessa, a unique landscape defined by gypsum outcrops, dramatic karst sinkholes (doline), and lush river oases. With convenient access from both San Lazzaro di Savena and Ozzano dell’Emilia railway stations, this itinerary is an ideal train+bike outing.

The route starts on suburban cycle lanes before reaching Pizzocalvo, a hilltop hamlet with a charming church. From here, cyclists can choose to take a detour through the Molino Grande WWF Oasis along the Idice stream (a low-gradient but technical and often muddy trail best suited for MTBs) or climb directly toward Gaibola.

The steep, unpaved climb to Gaibola leads right onto bare gypsum rock surrounded by karst woods with vibrant spring blooms. After riding past the massive sinkholes of Buche dell’Inferno, Gaibola, and Ronzana, the paved Via dell’Eremo leads rapidly down into the Zena Valley. Here lies the “Luigi Fantini” Visitor Center and the famous Farneto Cave (Grotta del Farneto), a key historical and archaeological site. The loop ends at La Cicogna, where cycle paths easily return to either San Lazzaro or Ozzano station.