The best mountain hikes in Emilia-Romagna
4.6
(23)
159
hikers
27
hikes
Mountaineering in Emilia-Romagna is defined by the Apennine Mountains, which traverse the region and form its southern boundary. This diverse landscape features hills, extensive forests, high pastures, deep valleys, and karst formations. Notable peaks like Monte Cimone (2,165 m) and Monte Cusna (2,120 m) offer challenging ascents and expansive views. The region also includes unique geological formations such as Pietra di Bismantova, providing varied climbing experiences.
Best mountaineering routes in Emilia-Romagna
- The most popular mountaineering route is Monte Cusna loop from Febbio, a 6.6 miles (10.7 km) trail that takes 4 hours 43 minutes to complete. This difficult route ascends one of the highest peaks in the Apennines.
- Another top favourite among local mountaineers is Monte Penna Via Ferrata loop from Civago, a difficult 2.8 miles (4.4 km) path. This route includes a via ferrata, offering an alpine experience with technical sections.
- Local mountaineers also love the Altaretto – Monte Giovo loop from Lago Santo modenese, a 5.7 miles (9.2 km) trail leading through high-altitude landscapes, often completed in about 4 hours 2 minutes.
- Mountaineering in Emilia-Romagna is defined by the Apennine mountain range, high-altitude lakes, and unique rock formations like Pietra di Bismantova. The network of routes offers options for various ability levels, from easy paths to difficult ascents.
- The routes in Emilia-Romagna are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 200 mountaineers have used komoot to explore Emilia-Romagna's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
5.0
(4)
31
hikers
6.49km
03:30
540m
540m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.3
(3)
15
hikers
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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5.0
(1)
13
hikers
11.1km
04:55
960m
960m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
11
hikers
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
2
hikers
Easy mountaineering route. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
12.8km
04:54
740m
750m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(1)
9
hikers
4.78km
02:43
470m
470m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
8.91km
04:23
670m
670m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(2)
4
hikers
13.3km
05:33
740m
740m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
6
hikers
13.9km
06:05
920m
920m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
In summer, Balzi dell'Ora is a challenging CAI trail due to its exposure and some technical sections. In winter, with snow and ice, it's a winter mountaineering route that, depending on snow conditions, could be quite respectable. I climbed it alone with two ice axes and crampons. If you're climbing as a team in the conditions I encountered, I think sure-footedness and experience are essential, as there are many traverses and ridge sections with sparse protection, and you'll obviously need adequate winter mountaineering gear. In any case, it's a beautiful climb with magnificent views and a very rewarding experience.
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A refuge on Lago Santo Parmense. Located in a magnificent setting, it's a delightful place to stop. It's managed; all the information is on the website. It can be reached on foot or by chairlift from Lagdei.
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There's not much to say here. Lago Santo is on the list of top places in our Apennines. A quick web search and a few photos are all it takes to understand what it's all about.
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In winter, with the right snow conditions, the Punta Sofia cross is a popular destination, ascending from the Balzi dell'Ora or the north gullies, or from the east face (a more complicated option). In other seasons, it's a beautiful hike along the various CAI trails. On clear days, you can admire a breathtaking view.
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Easy to reach and convenient for starting your walk.
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From the outside, it's a beautiful refuge. We couldn't see the inside because it was closed. It's easily accessible by parking in Case di Civago.
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Large stone fountain with significant water flow (at least in January)
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In winter, the second gully (starting from the left) has the steepest exit, 60/70 degrees, depending on the snow. I recommend tackling it with two ice axes. If you're climbing in a roped-up rock, about 60 meters from the gully exit, there's a bolt on the right that's useful for a belay. Another bolt is located at the gully exit, but it's often covered by the ship. It's obviously a good idea to check the snow conditions and equip yourself with the appropriate winter mountaineering gear.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountaineering routes are available in Emilia-Romagna?
There are over 40 mountaineering routes available in Emilia-Romagna, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has explored these trails over 200 times, highlighting the region's diverse terrain.
What is the best time of year for mountaineering in Emilia-Romagna?
The Apennine Mountains in Emilia-Romagna offer opportunities year-round. During warmer months, you can enjoy extensive hiking and trekking. In winter, the mountains transform into ski resorts, with areas like Monte Cimone and Corno alle Scale offering ski-mountaineering and other snow sports.
Are there any easy mountaineering routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Emilia-Romagna offers several easier routes. For instance, the Monte Rocce Memorial Area – Marzabotto Massacre Memorial loop from Parco regionale Monte Sole is an easy 6.2 km (3.8 miles) trail, perfect for those looking for a less strenuous experience.
Where can I find challenging mountaineering routes in Emilia-Romagna?
For experienced mountaineers, Emilia-Romagna offers 22 difficult routes. Consider the Monte Cusna loop from Febbio, which ascends one of the highest peaks in the Apennines, or the Alpe di Succiso – Il Torrione loop from Succiso Nuovo, a challenging 11.1 km (6.9 miles) route with significant elevation gain.
Are there any circular mountaineering routes in the region?
Many of the mountaineering routes in Emilia-Romagna are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lago Scaffaiolo – Punta Sofia loop from Madonna dell'Acero, which takes you through high-altitude landscapes, or the Altaretto – Monte Giovo loop from Lago Santo modenese.
What kind of natural landmarks or attractions can I see along the routes?
Emilia-Romagna's mountaineering routes often pass by stunning natural features. You can encounter unique rock formations like the Bismantova Rock, or visit high-altitude lakes such as Lake of the Nymph. Many routes also lead to prominent summits like Monte Cimone Summit and Sofia Peak, offering expansive views.
Are there any routes that include via ferratas?
Yes, for those seeking an alpine experience with technical sections, the Monte Penna Via Ferrata loop from Civago is a notable option. This difficult 4.4 km (2.8 miles) path includes a via ferrata, providing a thrilling challenge.
What do other mountaineers say about the routes in Emilia-Romagna?
The mountaineering routes in Emilia-Romagna are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Users often praise the varied terrain, from high pastures to deep valleys, and the well-maintained trails that lead to breathtaking views.
Are there any multi-day mountaineering options in Emilia-Romagna?
Yes, for multi-day adventures, the **Alta Via dei Parchi** is a prominent 500 km long-distance trail that spans the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. It passes through multiple national and regional parks, offering diverse landscapes including forests, volcanic cliffs, and mountain lakes.
Can I find routes that lead to mountain refuges?
Absolutely. Some routes offer the opportunity to reach mountain refuges, which can be great for a break or an overnight stay. An example is the San Leonardo al Dolo Refuge loop from Civago, a difficult 13.4 km (8.3 miles) route.
Are there any routes near historical sites or castles?
While primarily focused on natural landscapes, some areas in Emilia-Romagna are rich in history. You can find routes that pass near historical sites or castles, such as the Vignola Castle or the Malatesta Fortress of Verucchio, which are part of the region's cultural heritage.
What kind of flora and fauna can I expect to see?
The Apennines in Emilia-Romagna are rich in biodiversity. You can expect to see mixed forests at lower altitudes, extensive beech and conifer forests higher up, and alpine flora like heaths and meadows at the highest elevations. The region is also home to various animal species, including marmots in parks like Corno alle Scale.
Most popular routes in Emilia-Romagna
Most popular attractions in Emilia-Romagna
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