Salsomaggiore Terme is the ideal starting point for exploring a region of rolling hills, castles and culinary traditions.
This two-day cycling route takes you through natural landscapes and historic villages, combining outdoor activities, cultural visits and stops to sample local delicacies.
From the Stirone Park to the castles of Scipione and Tabiano, the route offers panoramic views and opportunities to discover typical local produce, ending the day with a relaxing visit to the thermal baths.
Technical notes
A route of approximately 40 km with challenging sections. Recommended for experienced cyclists.
Tip
The best times to visit are spring or autumn to enjoy the blossoms or the beautiful autumn foliage.
The tour starts at the headquarters of the Stirone and Piacenziano Park, at Podere Millepioppi.
Things to do
• Self-guided or guided walks or bike rides
• A visit to the MuMAB – Museum of the Ancient Sea and Biodiversity, with the option of guided activities focusing on fossils.
Walking amongst the willows and poplars lining the Stirone is like leafing through an ancient book of stone.
Here, the banks of the stream become a natural exhibition, where fossils embedded within the layers of earth reveal the secrets of an ecosystem that has changed over the millennia.
After the visit, we set off again towards Scipione Ponte, where we’ll stop for a break – perhaps to sample some Parmigiano Reggiano at one of the local producers.
Get back on your bike and cycle a few hundred metres to catch sight of the silhouette of a manor house: the Castle of Scipione dei Marchesi Pallavicino.
The building, which is open to visitors, offers a chance to delve into the ancient history of the area and enjoy the rolling countryside of the province of Parma.
Not to be missed
A chance to admire the ceilings, frescoes, coats of arms and decorations that have enriched the manor over the centuries and marked its most vibrant periods.
Interesting facts
The first records of the castle date back to 1025, and since then this place has played a central role in the historical struggles between the Guelphs and Ghibellines and amongst the families who vied for power over the territory during the Renaissance.
The day ends with a return to Salsomaggiore for a relaxing evening dedicated to spa and wellness!
On the second day, setting off from Salsomaggiore, the route heads inland.
Following the road towards the cemetery, you head towards Cangelasio for a scenic cycle ride to the Salsomaggiore Terme Golf Club (one of the region’s 19 golf clubs).
The club is the ideal place to stop for refreshments and immerse yourself in an oasis of tranquillity, far from the noise of the city.
Refreshed by a good meal, we make our way down the slopes towards the Boffalora road to reach Tabiano Castle.
Nestled in the cool shade of the Salsese woods, dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, it stands as the silent guardian of the village of Tabiano and is home to a charming Relais.
Good to know
The castle and village can be visited by appointment.
