Reggio Emilia’s Apennines is the perfect destination for those looking for cool and nature during the summer.
This itinerary of two days takes place in the Ozola Valley, in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park not far from the border with Liguria and Tuscany.
The route between Ligonchio and the apennine ridge, starts from 1000m of altitude, alternates excursions into the woods, stops in the refuges and open views, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, perfect for escaping from the summer heat.
Without forgetting the tasty breaks based on recipes and with traditional Km 0 ingredients ;-)
Useful info
Hiking paths suitable for different levels, with the possibility of choosing between short walks and more difficult excursions.
Tips
Ligonchio, a village of medieval origin, is the starting point of the itinerary, immersed in the green beech forests of the Ozola Valley.
Arriving from Reggio Emilia (Emilia Romagna) or Lunigiana (Tuscany), take the SS63 to Busana and here you can turn off following the signs that will take you to Ligonchio in 20 minutes.
You can start directly from the village and do more or less long and demanding walks, depending on your physical preparation.
To do
To know
In summer, you can use the Ozola Bus tourist shuttle to reach higher altitudes effortlessly (reservations required). The most popular destinations are the Rio Re area, Mount Sillano and Cavalbianco, and Prati di Sara starting from the village of Casalino.
Curiosity
Those who arrive in town in summer are struck by the surrounding green and blue water from the basin of the ENEL Hydroelectric Central built in liberty style, which divides the village into two historic districts. Inside the Central is active the Atelier “Di onda in onda” by Reggio Children, a popular destination especially for children and teenagers, but often also for adults, as it offers interesting workshops and activities. Opening times vary, so it’s best to check in advance to see if a visit is possible.
This first day among woods and views, with the possibility of choosing short routes or longer excursions according to your own pace, can only end with a good dinner, enjoyed in one of the local restaurants and the well-deserved rest in one of the facilities in the area, some even very characteristic and with a wellness center
On the second day you will climb toward the ridge up to the Pradarena Pass, at 1600 meters of altitude.
On the border between Emilia Romagna and Tuscany, the Pass can be reached passed by taking a road with big wide hairpin bends and immersed in beech forests that climb for about 10km from the town of Ligonchio but also from the Tuscan side, going up to the Lucca Serchio Valley turning off to Sillano and then climbing up to Pradarena.
To do
At 1600 meters, the landscape changes, silence and open panoramic views make this stage particularly rejuvenating. On the pass there are big meadows to stop in and a refuge where you can enjoy excellent dishes or stay overnight. After a weekend like this you can return: with a good supply of pure air in your lungs, with the memory of the beautiful views and with the taste of delicious dishes you have tasted.
