This route is part of the official hiking network "I Petali della Ginestra" of Riolo Terme. The itinerary runs near the Regional Park of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for the geological significance of its evaporite karst landscape in the Northern Apennines.
A trek through the landscapes of the Senio Valley to the summit of Monte Ghebbio, a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.
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Starting from the Historic Village
The hike begins at the Town Hall in the centre of Riolo Terme. Before leaving the town centre, you can admire the Rocca di Riolo and the remains of the ancient walls.
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Landmarks of Faith
Leaving the town behind, the route reaches the Church of San Giovanni Battista, which houses Sante Ghinassi’s large majolica Crucifixion and Angelo Biancini’s Via Crucis, as well as the Chiesina dei Caduti of the First World War in Viale delle Rimembranze, designed by architect Francesco Bagnaresi.
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Cuffiano
After observing the remains of the Abbey of San Pietro in Sala, the route continues through the small hamlet of Cuffiano, passing by the Memorial Park, where a monument is dedicated to the Jewish Brigade, which liberated the area and Monte Ghebbio from occupation on 11 April 1945.
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The Ascent to Monte Ghebbio
Continuing eastwards, the trail climbs along Via Monte Ghebbio until reaching the maximum elevation of 220 metres. Here you will find the highlight of the route: the Panoramic Bench. It is the perfect place for a photo stop, with an open view stretching across the Senio Valley.
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Return to Riolo Terme
The route descends gently from Monte Ghebbio back towards the centre of Riolo Terme, completing the hike after approximately 2 hours of walking.
Come and Discover the Vena del Gesso Romagnola
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Useful information
What to know before you go
Starting point:
Start/finish point: Riolo Terme Town Hall, Via Aldo Moro 2.
Directions:
The route begins at the Riolo Terme Town Hall (Via Aldo Moro 2), where the Church of San Giovanni Battista is also located. Continue to the roundabout on Corso Matteotti, cross the road and follow Via Rimembranze, home to the charming Chiesina dei Caduti (Little Church of the Fallen). The route then continues along Via Ripa to the Abbey of San Pietro in Sala. From here, the trail becomes a country track running alongside cultivated fields, following Via Molino Maschi. Upon reaching Via Bologna (the provincial road), cross over to join the cycle path on the opposite side. Turn right and continue towards the hamlet of Cuffiano, passing through it before taking Via Ossano on the left. Here, the route begins to climb until reaching the summit of Monte Ghebbio, where spectacular panoramic views await. Continue along the gently descending road, where you can also stop at the panoramic bench. The return journey follows a downhill route back to the town centre, continuing straight along Via Martiri di Marzabotto, then Via Oberdan, and finally Viale Mazzini, which leads back to the Town Hall.
Sportswear and shoes with studded soles.