Borgo Rivola is a locality within Riolo Terme, nestled in the heart of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola Regional Park, which is part of the UNESCO serial site "Evaporitic Karst and Caves of Northern Apennines." Situated on the banks of the Senio River, it is located in the Ravenna hinterland, just a few kilometers from Faenza and Imola.
Passing through Borgo Rivola means immersing yourself in a unique natural dimension, waiting to be explored.
The village lies at the foot of Monte Tondo and is framed, on one side, by the lunar gypsum formations of the Vena del Gesso and, on the other, by spectacular clay gullies (calanchi). Together, they create a rugged and diverse landscape, perfect for authentic outdoor experiences.
As a gateway to the Vena del Gesso Romagnola Regional Park, Borgo Rivola hosts the Visitor Center for Karst and Speleology, the ideal place to gain a deep understanding of karst phenomena.
Three itineraries of great cultural, spiritual, and natural interest pass through here, drawing hikers and pilgrims to the valley every year:
A network of trails, variants, and loop routes—starting from or passing through Borgo Rivola—leads into the heart of the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines, in search of breathtaking viewpoints and subterranean landscapes.
Following the Ferns’ Trail (Sentiero delle Felci), a steep and scenic path, you reach the King Tiberius Cave (Grotta del Re Tiberio). It is one of the most significant caves in the Vena del Gesso, an ancient rock-cut place of worship and a sanctuary for fans of underground exploration.
The first section is easily accessible to everyone with appropriate clothing: a 70-meter stretch leading to the grand "Gothic Hall," a circular chamber with a highly evocative natural vault. Beyond this point, access is only permitted via guided speleological tours to discover the karst phenomena that have carved the tunnels deep into the heart of the gypsum mountain.
In July, Borgo Rivola hosts A Gès, a multi-day event dedicated to sports and outdoor activities, featuring a program of initiatives tied to local tradition and the territory.
Trekking, running, and mountain biking take center stage during this three-day event, with excursions set in the spectacular landscape of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola, accompanied by excellent local gastronomy, meetings, and in-depth workshops.
A short distance away is the center of Riolo Terme, a thermal town renowned for the therapeutic properties of its waters.
Heading up toward the Tuscan border, you will find Casola Valsenio, the village of herbs and forgotten fruits, where you can discover the scents and flavors of this land's spontaneous essences.
