An easy trek to discover the Pliocene spur

If you are looking for an easy and surprising trek, to be done with the whole family (including the dog), you absolutely must try the Monte Adone ring, approximately 4.5 km long, which can be done in peace in a couple of hours.

It will be an opportunity to discover the typical and fascinating formations of the Pliocene Buttress, its flora and fauna. We also remember this path is part of the longer Via degli Dei, which connects Bologna to Florence.

For the most attentive observers, it will be possible to notice some trenches and bomb fragments along the way. It is in fact a path not only of naturalistic but also historical interest, due to its positioning on the Gothic Line.

Starting in Brento

The adventure begins from Brento, a small hamlet in the heart of the Bolognese Apennines approximately 15 minute drive from our farmhouse. Leaving the car along the streets of the village, take via Vallazza, climbing between the houses. After about 5 minutes, on your left, you will find the entrance to the path.

From here you proceed uphill, between viewpoints that offer views of the valley, juniper bushes, helichrysum, absinthe and heather.

The soil is a mixture of sand and clay, dug by the rains and vaguely resembles, in some places, a lunar landscape.

After about thirty minutes of climbing, you finally arrive at the cross of Monte Adone, just over 600 meters away. high, from which we can enjoy a breathtaking view. On the clearest days it is possible to clearly see the most important peaks of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, such as Corno alle Scale or Cimone.

In a small iron box, on the cross, a notebook preserves the thoughts of the many pilgrims who travel the Way of the Gods.

At this point you have two choices: go back along the path you just followed (quickest route) or complete the ring, taking the path that descends from the cross to the right.

To return to Brento it will take another hour of walking but it will certainly be worth it! On the way back you will also notice the Center for the Protection and Research of Exotic and Wild Fauna of Monte Adone, a unique place that you can visit on weekends upon reservation – for info https://centrotutelafauna.org/modalita-di-prenotazione/

Finally, you can reward yourself with a nice lunch/dinner at Trattoria di Monte Adone!