Emilia Romagna – Bologna to Parma Cycling

Cycling information

Routes are mainly paved with under 5% along gravel roads (strada bianca). Routes on days 2, 4 and 6 are relatively flat with only gentle undulation; the optional rides on days 3, 5 and 7 have climbs, some of which are steep in places. The route follows bike paths along rivers and a former railway line, as well as quiet country roads.

Day 1: ARRIVE IN BOLOGNA

Arrive in UNESCO recognised Bologna. Home to the world's oldest university, explore the ancient porticoed streets, medieval towers and cobbled alleyways before choosing one of the city's wonderful restaurants for dinner.
You stay at the Hotel Touring, Bologna (breakfast included)

Day 2: BOLOGNA TO MODENA (64km/39.8mi)

A cycle path following the porticoes takes you out of Bologna and soon you are in the hills with lovely views of verdant countryside. Stop off in the pretty town of Bazzano, with its elegant fortress come Renaissance style manor house, before continuing to the beautiful village of Spilamberto, which specialises in the production of balsamic vinegar and where you'll find a museum in its honour. A tasting maybe, before a downhill stretch takes you to Modena and its cobbled centro storico.
You stay at the Hotel Canalgrande (breakfast included)

Day 3: CASTELVETRO LOOP RIDE (62km/38.5mi)

There's plenty to discover in Modena ranging from its UNESCO recognised Piazza Grande and Baroque Ducal Palace to the renowned Enzo Ferrari Museum (both Ferrari and Maserati have factories here), whilst opera lovers will be delighted by the former home of Modena's most respected son, Luciano Pavarotti. Alternatively head out to the foothills of the Apennines and the picturesque medieval town of Castelvetro, surrounded by rolling hills swathed in Lambrusco Grasparossa vineyards. There are lots of opportunities to try the local balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano cheese - as well as wine of course!
You stay at the Hotel Canalgrande (breakfast included)

DAY 4: MODENA TO AGRITURISMO (NEAR REGGIO EMILIA) (47km/29.2mi)

Pick up picnic provisions from Modena's historic covered market with its vast selection of fresh local produce, including breads, cheeses, prosciutti, and sweet treats. Back in the saddle, it's gentle pedalling across the plain past fertile fields to the Acetaia Cavalli estate, where they have been making their punchy balsamic vinegar for over a century (guided visit included). Then it's on along quiet country lanes to your accommodation, a stunning Agriturismo surrounded by vineyards, where they produce their own wine, parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar.
You stay at the Agriturismo la Razza (breakfast included)

Day 5: LOOP RIDE TO REGGIO EMILIA OR CANOSSA (20km/12.4mi or 56km/34.8mi)

It's a short ride along the bike path to the lively town of Reggio Emilia, renowned throughout Italy for its excellent gastronomy - Parmigiano Reggiano is from here - and being the birthplace of the Italian tricolour flag. It's a perfect place to try the local speciality, erbazzone - a tasty flaky pie stuffed with spinach, shallots and Parmigiano - followed by torta di riso, a traditional cake brimming with rice, nuts, liqueur and lemon. Alternatively, for those wanting a challenge, climb to the panoramic ruins of Canossa Castle, where in the 11th century, the excommunicated Holy Roman Emperor stood barefoot in the snow seeking penitence from an unforgiving Pope.
You stay at the Agriturismo la Razza (breakfast included)

Day 6: AGRITURISMO TO PARMA (67km/41.6mi)

Start the day with a visit to a parmesan cheese producer where you discover why this world famous cheese is so well loved. Then ride along a former rail road through sleepy villages and cultivated farmland to the 15th century fortified castle at Montechiarugolo - complete with moat! - before heading to the gastronomic and cultural hotspot of Parma. Renowned as much for its art and music as it is for its cuisine, famous former residents include Renaissance painter Correggio and composer Giuseppe Verdi, who is celebrated here in an annual opera festival. Wander through the town's leafy parks, visit the National Gallery housed in the monumental 16th century Pilotta Palace and explore the winding cobbled streets of the atmospheric Old Town. No visit to Parma would be complete of course without trying some prosciutto crudo di Parma (dry cured ham) which traditionally is served with a torta fritta, a crispy bread.
You stay at the Hotel Button (breakfast included)

Day 7: TORRECHIARA LOOP RIDE (50km/31.1mi)

Head into the hills as you make your way to the 15th century Torrechiara Castle which proudly stands guard over the Parma valley. This stunning fortress was also a nobleman's home and boasts perfectly preserved frescoed rooms. Take time to drink in the views, then it's downhill all the way back to Parma and your final delicious dinner of the week.
You stay at the Hotel Button (breakfast included)

Day 8: LEAVE PARMA