3 places where you can isolate from the world and enjoy some time away from your daily routine. The right places to avoid crowds as well, which is of the highest importance these days.

We’re not talking about atolls in the Pacific ocean or tropical jungles but rather of parks and natural areas close to Bologna, that in some cases you can reach on foot or by bike from the centre, and where you can experience the silence of nature. So, let’s warm up and head for the Eremo di Ronzano, take a look at the ravines of Varignana, and go for a hike on the Sentiero dei Bregoli path.

1. Walking up to the Eremo di Ronzano church

Going up to the hilltop of Eremo di Ronzano is like passing by the different souls of the city in a very short time. Setting off from San Mamolo gate, a few steps away from Bologna’s ancient city walls, we’re still in the middle of a refined neighbourhood close to the city centre. Entering Villa Ghigi’s park near Giardino Norma Mascellani we’re suddenly thrown in a completely different space, a wonderful oasis, big enough that you’ll barely meet other people on your way, especially on weekdays. Following the paths uphill towards the opposite side of the park we get to the CAI 904 hiking route, that leads to the top of the hill where the Eremo and its little church stans. After admiring its early 16th-century frescoes, it’s time to relax and enjoy the views over Bologna.

Villa Ghigi park

2. The ravines of Varignana

Geologically speaking, the creation of ravines depends on the erosion of clayish soil due to the action of rains. Seeing their irregular and rough profile running down the hills for the first time is really a unique experience, that reminds us of a lunar landscape.

There are many places around Bologna where you can see the ravines, but our suggestion is to look for them in the countryside of Varignana, a little village 20 kilometres south of Bologna. This place is ideal to discover the two contrasting faces of Bologna’s hills: tidy vineyards on the one side, wild nature on the other.
Bike lovers might also like to explore these places by MTB, for instance by joining our Off-road bike tour Liano and Varignana.

Ravines Bologna

3. Hiking on the Bregoli trail

Sentiero dei Bregoli trail in Bologna is very popular among bolognese especially on Easter Monday, that’s why we recommend going there on another day of the year!
The path was once used by pilgrims to connect the church of San Martino di Casalecchio, set at the entrance of Talon park in Casalecchio, with the famous Sanctuary of San Luca.
Walking towards San Luca, besides the many panoramic viewpoints you’ll also have the opportunity to live nature to the fullest by penetrating more and more in the wood that separates the two churches. Before setting off, just a couple of details: the Bregoli trail (CAI 112/A) is 1.7 km long and is obviously steep :)

Sentiero dei Bregoli Bologna