Hiking in the Modenese Apennines isn’t just about steep climbs or long treks. In this lush green corner of Emilia-Romagna, a dense network of trails accessible to everyone winds through historic villages, ancient forests, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Whether you're traveling with kids, grandparents, or simply looking to take a break from the daily grind, these trails offer authentic experiences at a slow pace with no stress and no effort.
In this 72-hour itinerary, there are five easy selected hikes that can even be enjoyed with trekking strollers.
All trails have been carefully selected for their accessibility, scenic beauty, and proximity to local accommodations perfect for a comfortable and relaxing stay. You’ll walk along paved roads, forestry tracks, and well-maintained dirt paths, suitable for those seeking a nature-filled getaway, far from stress but close to breathtaking beauty. Each stop along the way is a small discovery to be experienced with all the senses, in every season. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of autumn foliage, the lush greens of summer, or winter’s shimmering frost, the Modenese Apennines are ready to welcome you.
Useful Information
These routes don’t require any special training, but we recommend wearing hiking shoes and comfortable clothing.
Tips
To easily reach the starting points of the hikes, we recommend staying at one of the many accommodations located in and around Fanano, Sestola and Montecreto.
Our first two hikes take us to Fanano, one of the most charming villages in the Modenese Apennines.
Park your car near the Tourist Office and take the green-marked paved path that leads to the charming hamlet of Lotta, home to the Church of Santa Margherita and the 17th-century Oratory of Sant’ Anna, both rich in history and charm.
Continuing towards Trentino, turn onto Via Le Ville and, after a short climb, you'll reach the majestic American Giant Sequoias the only ones in the area, brought directly from the United States by an ancestor of a local family.
Today, embracing their monumental trunks is a thrilling and rejuvenating experience. After a pause in the peaceful silence of this unexpected corner of America, you’ll return to Fanano along the same trail.
To reach the second hike, hop back in the car and follow the signs to Fellicarolo until you arrive at I Taburri.
From here, a short and accessible trail, which is safely lined with protective barriers leading to one of the natural wonders of the Modenese Apennines: the Doccione Waterfalls.
With a total drop of 120 meters, these cascading waters offer a unique sensory experience in every season, surrounded by the sounds, scents, and vibrant colors of lush nature:
Tips
Beyond the hikes, take time to explore the Fanano charming historic center, with its picturesque corners, the ancient Parish Church of San Silvestro, the richly decorated 17th-century Church of San Giuseppe, and the unique and surprising Open-Air Stone Sculpture Museum that is a true outdoor gallery nestled in the heart of the village.
On day two, we head to Sestola, an ancient village nestled beneath the impressive silhouette of its centuries-old castle. Steeped in history and charm, it's the perfect starting point for two more easy hikes in the heart of nature.
In the heart of the historic center, not far from the 19th-century bell tower of the Parish Church of San Nicolò, take Via Fratta and keep to the right on Via della Rocca. Follow the road until the entrance set within the impressive 16th-century fortress walls.
Just before the main gate, you’ll find the start of the flat Percorso Vita fitness trail, which runs along the walls and leads to Parco della Covetta, a peaceful picnic area offering breathtaking views of the Apennine ridge.
Back at the bell tower, follow the signs for Pian del Falco, a charming “alpine” village nestled at 1350 meters above sea level.
The destination is reached by following, in order, Via Cimone, Via delle Ville, and finally Via Pian del Falco, an old forest road built in the 1930s, now partially closed to traffic.
Along the way, you’ll cross sections of Municipal Trail No. 6, which gently guides you to the Chiesetta degli Alpini, a small chapel cherished by hikers for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views.
As an alternative, you can take the Sestola - Pian del Falco triple chairlift (for seasonal opening times, please check the official website https://www.cimonesci.it/ ).
Tips
Visit the Museums of the Sestola Fortress (ticket is required), that home several exhibitions of significant historical and cultural interest. Highlights include the Museum of Mountain Life, the Museum of Mechanical Musical Instruments, the “Room of Memories” dedicated to local soprano Teresina Burchi in Reiter, a 15th-century fresco cycle showing the life of Saint John the Baptist, and the “Artists of Frignano” exhibition.
Our journey ends in Montecreto, known as the “Town of the Chestnut” perched around the Church of Saint John the Baptist and the remnants of a medieval castle.
From the heart of the village, take Via dei Monti, a scenic dirt road that leads, in about 45 minutes, to one of the area’s most iconic spots: Solitary Pine.
It is a magnificent and towering black pine, standing alone on the ridge and overlooking the Scoltenna Valley. The view is expansive and refreshing, perfect for taking pictures or simply enjoying a moment of silence.
Near the pine, there is a charming picnic area, ideal for a packed lunch in nature while enjoying a breathtaking panorama.
Tips
Explore the Chestnut Park, a picturesque green area home to centuries-old chestnuts with winding, monumental shapes.
The park is easily accessible, even for families with children or those with limited mobility. It also features a historic metato (the traditional chestnut drying hut), a small playground, and several picnic tables. In autumn, particularly with the foliage and fallen chestnut husks, the park offers an immersive experience of nature, culture, and rural history.
