Bologna to Ravenna: Glittering Trails – Escorted
Duration: 8 days
Trip Dates:
This diverse journey offers a blend of nature, history, art and cuisine, showcasing the best of the region of Emilia-Romagna. We begin in Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna and one of Italy’s most culturally and historically rich cities, known for its medieval towers, extensive porticoes and as the home of the oldest university in the western world.
From Bologna, we embark on a walking adventure that takes us into the heart of the Apennine foothills. Our path winds through two Unesco-listed regional parks, renowned for their unique geological formations and rich biodiversity. The gypsum rock gives rise to fascinating sinkholes, caves and ravines. En route we visit the medieval town of Brisighella, famous for its medieval fortress and olive oil.
The trip culminates in the historic city of Ravenna, a city that once served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire. Enjoy a guided tour of its world-famous mosaics, dating back to the Byzantine era.
This diverse journey offers a blend of nature, history, art and cuisine, showcasing the best of the region of Emilia-Romagna. We begin in Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna and one of Italy’s most culturally and historically rich cities, known for its medieval towers, extensive porticoes and as the home of the oldest university in the western world.
From Bologna, we embark on a walking adventure that takes us into the heart of the Apennine foothills. Our path winds through two Unesco-listed regional parks, renowned for their unique geological formations and rich biodiversity. The gypsum rock gives rise to fascinating sinkholes, caves and ravines. En route we visit the medieval town of Brisighella, famous for its medieval fortress and olive oil.
The trip culminates in the historic city of Ravenna, a city that once served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire. Enjoy a guided tour of its world-famous mosaics, dating back to the Byzantine era.
Duration: 8 days
Trip Dates:
Itinerary
We drive (20 mins) from Bologna airport to Bologna and enjoy a tour of the inner city, before dinner in this renowned centre of gastronomy.
Known for its medieval towers, extensive porticoes, and as the home of the oldest university in the western world, Bologna serves as the perfect starting point. Here, we will wander through the historical centre, visiting iconic sites like Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio, and the famous Two Towers (Le Due Torri) that dominate the city’s skyline.
Charming 19th century hotel in the beautiful Piazza Maggiore
We enter the Regional Park dei Gessi Bolognesi e Calanchi dell'Abbadessa … to walk on paths glittering with gypsum crystals and across the karst site of the ‘Dolina della Spipola’ to reach San Lazzaro di Savena (11.5 miles, 7 hours).
San Lazzaro di Savena is in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, just a few kilometres southeast of Bologna. Known for its high quality of life, green spaces and proximity to the city. Notable features include the Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi e Calanchi dell'Abbadessa, a protected natural park with caves and hiking trails, plus a few historical churches and villas.
Contemporary restoration of an ancient villa set in parkland
We walk past Castel de' Britti, an ancient village built on the top of gypsum rocks, and cross the impressively eroded ‘Calanchi della Luna’ to reach the village of Settefonti, renowned for its impressive grey ravines and romantic legend ... from where we traverse ravines, enjoying fine views of the inner Apennines before walking up to reach Varignana (12 miles, 7 hours).
Varignana is a charming rural village with ancient Roman and medieval origins in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, located in the hills near Castel San Pietro Terme. The village is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and rolling hills, offering a peaceful and scenic escape with a strong focus on sustainability, local food and wellness.
Historic country house set in olive groves with pool & spa
We cross the national border between Emilia and Romagna, walking through ravines, woods, orchards and pastures to Borgo Tossignano, at the Western end of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola (Romagna Gypsum Vein) from where a short drive brings us to Casola Valsenio where we spend the night (14.5 miles, 8.5 hours).
Casola Valsenio is a charming small village (population approx. 2,600) nestled in the upper Senio Valley of the Emilia‑Romagna region, within the Province of Ravenna, about 60 km southeast of Bologna and southwest of Ravenna. Casola Valsenio is renowned for its cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants, especially lavender, earning it the nickname “Paese delle Erbe e dei Frutti Dimenticati” (Village of Herbs and Forgotten Fruits).
Family run restored Agriturismo producing wine & olive oil, with pool
After returning by road to Tossignano, we walk to cross into the Vena del Gesso Romagnola, a small mountain chain made entirely of gypsum minerals, where the karst formations create a unique landscape. We follow a ridge, the Rive di San Biagio, enjoying extensive views of the Apennines and exploring the woods where a famous robber ‘Il Passatore’ once roamed, and arrive back at Casola Valsenio to spend the night (5 miles, 4 hours).
Ideal for those seeking picturesque walks, botanical discovery, local flavours and a slice of authentic rural Emilia‑Romagna. Explore the Rocca di Monte Battaglia, a medieval fortress with panoramic views. The Abbey of Valsenio and picturesque old town streets add cultural depth. Surrounded by rolling hills and nature trails, Casola Valsenio is perfect for tranquil, off-the-beaten-path exploration.
Family run restored Agriturismo producing wine & olive oil, with pool
We walk from the hotel down to Casola Valsenio and up into the eastern part of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola, where we find evidence of ancient gypsum workings, traces of the World War II Gothic Line on the slopes of Monte Mauro, before continuing to Brisighella, famous for its three towers and its excellent olive oil (13 miles, 8 hours).
Brisighella is known for its fairytale medieval charm, scenic landscape and rich cultural traditions. It is perched on the hills along the Lamone River, surrounded by olive groves and rugged gypsum cliffs. The town is famous for its historic architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and high-quality olive oil (Brisighello DOP). Brisighella is a hidden gem offering history, nature and authentic Italian village life.
Historic, family run hotel with spa in village centre
We drive (1 hour) to Ravenna, where we spend the day visiting the city centre and its UNESCO World Heritage monuments, preserving the outstanding byzantine mosaics dating to 5th and 6th century. Free afternoon to enjoy the lively city centre.
Ravenna is a historic city in the Emilia-Romagna region and has a unique and illustrious history — it served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century, later becoming a centre of Byzantine culture. As a result, the city is famed for its early Christian and Byzantine art and architecture, especially its vivid mosaics, which are among the most important in the world. Major highlights include the Basilica of San Vitale, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo and Sant'Apollinare in Classe and Dante’s Tomb.
Former residence of a Ravenna Count in the heart of Ravenna
Return to Bologna airport (1 hour).
Trip Planner
Walking & Terrain
Moderate to challenging walking. This is an 8-day trip with walks offered on 5 days, plus sightseeing. The length of each day varies from 4 to a maximum of 8.5 hours walking. ‘Hours of walking’ does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing or rests.
The walking terrain varies as we move from the cityscape of Bologna into the natural landscapes of the Apennines. The terrain in the Parco Regionale dei Gessi Bolognesi e Calanchi dell’Abbadessa is characterised by its rugged, undulating hills and distinctive karst formations. The gypsum rock gives rise to fascinating sinkholes, caves, and ravines, which we will traverse along marked trails. This park is home to a variety of paths, some of which are relatively gentle, while others require a bit more stamina due to steeper inclines and rocky out crops or muddy ground. As we continue toward the Parco Regionale della Vena del Gesso Romagnola, the terrain becomes more dramatic, with long stretches of gypsum ridges, steep cliffs, and expansive views of the surrounding valleys. This area is renowned for its "vena del gesso", a large gypsum vein that creates a striking contrast with the verdant countryside. Here, the trails may become more challenging, especially in the more rugged sections, but the views and geological features make the effort worthwhile and we will provide several options each day.
On certain days, the walk takes you into the hills where the paths cross a more rugged terrain — please make sure that your footwear provides sufficient ankle support. Some of our walks are very weather sensitive. If it is not possible to do a walk due to inclement weather, an alternative will be organised at the discretion of the Tour Leader.
Our support vehicles allow you the flexibility to walk 'as much or as little as you like', with drop-offs and pick-ups appropriate to the given day's itinerary. The Tour Leader will tell you each evening about the following day's walking options.
Walking & Terrain
Moderate to challenging walking. This is an 8-day trip with walks offered on 5 days, plus sightseeing. The length of each day varies from 4 to a maximum of 8.5 hours walking. ‘Hours of walking’ does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing or rests.
The walking terrain varies as we move from the cityscape of Bologna into the natural landscapes of the Apennines. The terrain in the Parco Regionale dei Gessi Bolognesi e Calanchi dell’Abbadessa is characterised by its rugged, undulating hills and distinctive karst formations. The gypsum rock gives rise to fascinating sinkholes, caves, and ravines, which we will traverse along marked trails. This park is home to a variety of paths, some of which are relatively gentle, while others require a bit more stamina due to steeper inclines and rocky out crops or muddy ground. As we continue toward the Parco Regionale della Vena del Gesso Romagnola, the terrain becomes more dramatic, with long stretches of gypsum ridges, steep cliffs, and expansive views of the surrounding valleys. This area is renowned for its "vena del gesso", a large gypsum vein that creates a striking contrast with the verdant countryside. Here, the trails may become more challenging, especially in the more rugged sections, but the views and geological features make the effort worthwhile and we will provide several options each day.
On certain days, the walk takes you into the hills where the paths cross a more rugged terrain — please make sure that your footwear provides sufficient ankle support. Some of our walks are very weather sensitive. If it is not possible to do a walk due to inclement weather, an alternative will be organised at the discretion of the Tour Leader.
Our support vehicles allow you the flexibility to walk 'as much or as little as you like', with drop-offs and pick-ups appropriate to the given day's itinerary. The Tour Leader will tell you each evening about the following day's walking options.
Your Personal ATG Route Manager
Route Book
The ATG Route Book is a detailed, day-to-day guide. The book anticipates your needs with easy-to-follow instructions, maps, plans and other information that will guide you to discover the best that the area has to offer and is the key to the success of an independent holiday with us.
Walking App
Your Route Manager can provide you with a link to download an app to your smartphone. This app provides the GPS track for your route on your phone. You can use this digital support to find your position and navigate the route, even without an internet connection or mobile phone reception.
Accommodation & Meals
The hotels we stay in are characteristic of the area and the towns we visit.
There are some smart-casual restaurants on this trip where a jacket would be appropriate, but not necessary. All evening meals are included and are taken either in the hotel or in local restaurants. At dinner, the Tour Manager will tell you about each evening’s menu and if there is anything else that you would prefer, you only have to ask.
Each day the Tour Manager will meet you with one of ATG’s celebrated picnic lunches. You will be greeted with mineral water and a starter followed by wine and an abundant lunch of local organic produce and specialities. Picnics are colourful, varied and nutritious. Buffet-style, there is a choice of meats, cheeses, substantial salads, bread and fruit…and pudding. If it is cold there will be a hot dish.
Food & Wine
One of the joys of this trip is the opportunity to sample the local cuisine, which is deeply rooted in tradition. Bologna is world-renowned for its contribution to Italian food, and we will have the chance to try classic dishes like tortellini in brodo (tortellini in broth), tagliatelle al ragù, and lasagna. The city is also famous for its cured meats, such as mortadella, which has been produced here for centuries. As we move into the countryside, the food becomes more rustic, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Castel San Pietro Terme and the surrounding area are known for their hearty pasta dishes, often served with rich sauces made from wild game. Piadina, a traditional flatbread from Romagna, is a staple in many of the towns along our route, typically filled with cheese, cured meats, or vegetables. The fertile plains and rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna are renowned for their abundant production of high-quality fruits and vegetables. The region is particularly famous for its pears, peaches and tomatoes, with the countryside around Bologna and Romagna producing fresh, seasonal ingredients that are staples in the local cuisine. In Brisighella, we’ll have the opportunity to taste local olive oil, known for its delicate flavour and often used in salads or drizzled over fresh bread. The Romagna side of the region is also famous for its desserts, including ciambella (a type of cake) and the rich, custard-filled zuppa inglese.
Wine is an integral part of the Emilia-Romagna experience, and our trip will pass through some of the region’s most famous wine-producing areas. Sangiovese, a bold red wine, is the dominant variety in Romagna, known for its deep colour and robust flavour. It pairs beautifully with the rich, meaty dishes of the region. In the hills surrounding Bologna, Pignoletto is the star — a light, sparkling white wine that is perfect for refreshing the palate after a long walk. Albana, another white variety, can be found in both dry and sweet styles, offering a versatile accompaniment to various dishes.
History
Emilia-Romagna is a region with a deep and layered history, and our route takes us through places that have witnessed the ebb and flow of civilizations for centuries. Bologna itself was founded by the Etruscans and later became a key Roman city. It flourished in the Middle Ages, establishing the University of Bologna, which attracted scholars from across Europe. The medieval city’s architecture reflects this long history, with its towers, churches, and porticoes standing as testament to its past. The architecture of Bologna’s historical centre and the gypsum mines in the Parco Regionale dei Gessi Bolognesi e Calanchi dell’Abbadessa share an interesting historical and material connection. Gypsum, a versatile mineral, has been extracted from the area’s karstic hills since Roman times and has played a significant role in the construction and architectural heritage of Bologna. Mining activities in the park area, including quarries and tunnels, are part of a long tradition of using local natural resources to support Bologna’s growth. The extracted gypsum was transported to Bologna to meet the city’s architectural needs, and as such, the mines played a vital role in shaping the appearance of the historical centre. The historical connection between the architecture of Bologna and the gypsum mines is preserved today not only in the city’s buildings but also in the landscape itself. While mining in the park has ceased, the old quarry sites, tunnels, and caves are now part of the protected Parco Regionale dei Gessi Bolognesi, which highlights both the natural beauty and historical significance of the gypsum extraction industry. The Parco Regionale della Vena del Gesso Romagnola was historically a source of gypsum for building and plasterwork, a practice that dates back to Roman times. Brisighella, another medieval gem, developed around its fortress and benefitted from its strategic position between Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. The trip concludes in Ravenna, a city with one of the most remarkable histories in Italy, having served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later as a key Byzantine stronghold. Ravenna’s mosaics, preserved in churches and mausoleums, offer a glimpse into the artistic and religious life of the early Christian era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Escorted trips are accompanied by two of ATG’s fully trained Tour Consultants, from the moment they welcome you at the airport, through to the end-of trip airport transfer. The Tour Manager looks after the practical side of the trip – luggage transport, hotels, food and drink. The Tour Leader will lead each day’s walk, and after dinner each evening will tell you about the following day’s itinerary. Both Tour Consultants will explain their role, and how the trip will run, on the first evening at dinner.
Please let us know about any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so that our Tour Consultants can ensure that you are catered for during your holiday. Most dietary restrictions do not present a problem on our trips and the Tour Manager can discuss your requirements in more detail with you at the start of your trip.
The walks are graded according to difficulty but you can walk as much or as little as you like.
Easy: walking along well-established paths and tracks with some short ascents/descents. These trips are suitable for most people who enjoy occasional exercise.
Easy to Moderate: walking along well-established paths and tracks. Occasional loose (gravel) surfaces. Ascents/descents up to 1 hour. These trips are suitable for most people who have a reasonable level of fitness.
Moderate: walking along a variety of paths and tracks. Occasional uneven areas. Ascents/descents 1-2 hours. These trips are suitable for those who have a reasonable to good level of fitness.
Moderate to Challenging: walking along varied paths and surfaces, occasionally challenging, with ascents/descents of 2-3 hours. These trips are suitable for more experienced walkers who have a good level of fitness.
Single travellers will be booked into a double room which will carry a single occupancy supplement.
Flights are not included in the price of your ATG holiday and should be booked independently. We will advise you of the group meeting time at the destination airport and return transfer time to the airport at the end of your trip to enable you to book compatible flights.
Yes. All of our escorted trips can be booked privately, you can book a set departure or a date to suit you (subject to availability). In most instances if the group is 13-16 clients we will offer the trip at the published price. For 12 or fewer clients we would provide a bespoke costing.
On escorted trips everything is included (per the published itinerary) apart from items of a personal nature and snacks or drinks outside of the set meals.
We are delighted to book extensions for you at either end of your trip. We only book hotels with which we have an established relationship and where we can ensure a high level of service and enjoyment. If you would like an extension hotel booking please indicate this during the booking process and we will contact you with pricing information.
ATG does not provide any form of insurance cover. However, it is a condition of booking that you have fully comprehensive insurance cover, including:
Cancellation/curtailment up to the cost of the holiday (preferably including flights)
Medical emergencies and repatriation
Travel delay / missed departure
Lost or stolen personal belongings
Personal liability
Legal expenses
Natural Disasters
Although most credit card companies offer travel insurance as something that is included when paying the balance with the card, it may be advisable to check that the cover offered is what you expect it to be. Very few companies include cancellation and curtailment or medical expenses. Whatever the insurance policy you have taken out, please read the documentation carefully. Please ensure also that you take it with you on your trip and refer to it in the case of any claim or emergency.
Yes, please click here for what to bring. A packing checklist is also included with your booking confirmation.
Sustainability
ATG was founded on principles of conservation and sustainable development. It was the first company to win the tourism industry’s two top awards: Tourism for Tomorrow (UK) and the World Legacy Award (National Geographic and Conservation International USA) and also the first to have an accredited Environmental Management System.
Everyone who walks with ATG contributes to the ATG Trust, which funds projects that benefit local communities in the regions visited. By supporting these initiatives, ATG promotes sustainable tourism. Past projects have included heritage restoration projects, environmental conservation and educational projects.
