Bologna, the quintessential university city, is not just gothic palaces and porticoes. Surrounded by the hills and mountains most famous in Emilia Romagna, it is actually a city rich in greenery, a true gateway to nature where you can have enchanting experiences, on foot or by bike, to clear your mind and recharge your spirit. Whether you are a local or just a passing hiker, discover with us the most beautiful walks in Bologna, among parks, mountains, and historic routes!
The Way of the Gods: From Emilia Romagna to Tuscany
Among the routes starting from Bologna, the Way of the Gods is undoubtedly the most famous and popular hike. Its fame is not recent; its origins seem to date back even to theEtruscan era.
However, the route was only revived around the 1980s thanks to some hikers who wanted to breathe new life into the ancient paths connecting Emilia Romagna to Tuscany, particularly Bologna and Florence.
The trail is just over 120 km long and passes the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca, Sasso Marconi, the Pliocene Ridge area, Madonna dei Fornelli, the Futa Pass, the Church of Sant’Agata, up to San Piero a Sieve and Fiesole.
Don’t be intimidated by the length: the route is not difficult at all and is not reserved only for the most experienced trekkers, but anyone can venture out. The terrain it crosses is mostly mountainous and wooded, so in summer it offers good protection from heat and sun. Along the way, you will also encounter important historical landmarks and walk on ancient Roman pavement.
Regarding the name, the Way of the Gods crosses an area dotted with mountains such as Monte Adone, Monte Vener and Monte Luario, all named after Roman deities. Mount Luario, all of which bear the names of Roman deities.
To join the group trek along the Way of the Gods organized by Meeters, click on this link!
Routes to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca
Anyone who knows Bologna even a little or has visited it at least once will know how much the entire city is connected to one particular place: the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of San Luca.
The basilica seems to watch over and protect the city from atop the Colle della Guardia and it’s not hard to spot it from various points throughout the historic center. The hikes leading to the sanctuary are many and all very popular and well frequented. We want to suggest two particular treks here, let’s see them together!
From the Historic Center
Even from Bologna’s historic center, it’s possible to reach San Luca with a truly characteristic walk. This one starts from Porta Saragozza, crosses all of via Saragozza following the longest portico in the world: a full 666 arches over 3796 meters!
The walk isn’t overly strenuous, but you will find yourself climbing stairs uphill and if you’re not very fit, you might need to take breaks now and then. Once at the top, you can visit the Basilica and its crypt and enjoy an unparalleled view of Bologna!
The sanctuary is also a very popular spot for spending Sundays and Easter Monday, perhaps with a nice picnic!
The Bregoli Trail
Another very scenic walk leading to San Luca is the Bregoli Trail. In this case, you don’t start from the city of Bologna, but from its surroundings, namely the municipality of Casalecchio di Reno.
The starting point is therefore the Church of San Martino, inside the Parco della Chiusa, a large area that once included the gardens of two noble villas and today is perfect for hikes and outdoor trips in the company of new friends!