Sassi di Roccamalatina Loop Trail
Sassi di Roccamalatina Loop Trail
4.6
(137)
362
hikers
Sassi di Roccamalatina Loop Trail
05:10
16.1km
580m
Hiking
Embark on the Sassi di Roccamalatina Loop Trail, a difficult hike that takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the regional park. You will cover 10.0 miles (16.1 km) and ascend 1909 feet (582 metres), a journey estimated to take 5 hours and 9 minutes. As you hike, you'll witness towering sandstone spires that define the area, offering views from various angles as the route winds around them. The terrain shifts from gravel roads to quiet forest paths, following natural springs and historic mills along the Rio Tregenda and Rio delle Vallecchie. This challenging route demands good fitness and sure-footedness, rewarding you with a truly immersive experience in nature.
To begin your adventure, head to the ancient Romanesque church of Pieve di Trebbio, which serves as the starting point for this loop. While some sections of the trail are exclusively for pedestrians, be aware that others, particularly on asphalt roads and cart tracks, are shared with cyclists and even horses. Given the difficult rating, ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear and sufficient water. Planning an early start is advisable to comfortably complete the route within the estimated duration and enjoy the natural surroundings.
This trail offers more than just a challenging hike; it's an opportunity to explore the unique geology of the Parco Regionale dei Sassi di Roccamalatina. The route also incorporates a segment of the historic Via Romea Nonantolana, an ancient pilgrimage path, adding a layer of cultural significance to your journey. Keep an eye out for the Pieve di Trebbio, a historical landmark that anchors the trail. This blend of natural beauty and historical context makes the Sassi di Roccamalatina Loop Trail a notable regional experience.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.35 km
Path of the Little Bridges
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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3.86 km
Zio Teofilo Fallen Tree – Sassi di Roccamalatina Regional Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
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4.24 km
Sassi di Roccamalatina
Highlight • Natural Monument
Admission is paid, for a negligible amount
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4.56 km
Trebbio Parish Church
Highlight • Religious Site
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4.98 km
View of the Sassi di Roccamalatina
Highlight • Viewpoint
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5.80 km
Sassi di Roccamalatina
Highlight • Natural Monument
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7.20 km
Riva Mill
Highlight • Structure
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8.22 km
Roccamalatina Rocks
Highlight • Natural Monument
The road that runs along the cliffs of the Sassi in late spring is painted of rare beauty due to the flowering of the cherry trees.
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10.3 km
Sulitura Water Spring
Highlight • Natural Monument
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13.5 km
View of the Panaro Valley
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
16.1 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.62 km
4.08 km
2.86 km
2.06 km
473 m
Surfaces
5.40 km
4.25 km
2.50 km
2.17 km
1.64 km
118 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 13 May
19°C
11°C
56 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of this loop tour?
This loop tour is classified as a difficult hike, requiring very good fitness and sure-footedness. It's comparable to a SAC 2-3 difficulty level, meaning while many paths are accessible, some sections demand careful footing.
Is this a loop trail or an out-and-back route?
This is a loop tour, offering a circular route that brings you back to your starting point without retracing your steps.
Where does the trail start and where can I park?
The loop typically begins at the Pieve di Trebbio, an ancient Romanesque church. Parking facilities are usually available near this historical site, which serves as a convenient trailhead for the Sassi di Roccamalatina Regional Park.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this hike?
The trail features diverse terrain, including gravel roads and sections winding through forests. While many paths are accessible, some parts may require particular attention to foot placement. You'll encounter both pedestrian-only sections and others shared with cyclists and horses on asphalt roads and cart tracks.
What are the main natural and historical highlights along the route?
You'll experience the spectacular rocky formations of the Sassi di Roccamalatina, views of the Panaro Valley, and the historic Trebbio Parish Church. Other notable features include the Path of the Little Bridges, natural springs like Sulitura Water Spring, and the Riva Mill. The route is also part of the ancient Via Romea Nonantolana pilgrimage route.
Does this loop connect with other trails in the region?
Yes, this route intersects with several other official trails. You'll find sections that are part of Itinerario 8, Itinerario 9, CAI 400/2, Cammino dell'Unione, and the Via Romea Nonantolana Orientale (pedonale), among others.
Is the trail dog-friendly?
While the Sassi di Roccamalatina Regional Park generally welcomes dogs, it's always best to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Check local park regulations for any specific restrictions.
Are there any permits or fees required to hike in the Sassi di Roccamalatina Regional Park?
Typically, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking this trail within the Parco Regionale Sassi di Roccamalatina. However, it's always advisable to check the official park website for the most current regulations before your visit.
What is the best time of year to hike this route?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking this trail, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot, while winter may present challenges with snow or ice, especially on higher or shaded sections.
What should I bring for a hike on this difficult trail?
Given the trail's difficulty and length, you should bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, plenty of water, snacks, a map or GPS device (like komoot), appropriate layers of clothing for changing weather, and sun protection. Trekking poles can also be helpful on steeper or uneven sections.
Are there any facilities like cafes or accommodation near the trail?
While the trail itself is primarily a natural and historical experience, you can find small villages and towns in the vicinity of the Sassi di Roccamalatina Regional Park that offer cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. It's recommended to check in advance for specific services along your planned route.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Nice ride, today the park was gorgeous. Mud only at the penultimate km, where there is a small swamp and the last km in the woods all uphill, exhausting. But he lacked training. The path of the bridges is beautiful. The passage around the stones as well.
The route was redone again this year and it is always beautiful, you meet enough people along the route because the little bridges attract families (not always organized for trekking). The last three kilometers are always the most ferocious ones, they are on asphalt exposed to the sun at a time usually in the afternoon. I usually do much more demanding routes but these last km in the sun are the ones that make you arrive at the car destroyed
Before leaving we paid a visit to the river bank... if I were to do this tour again I would probably bring slippers so I could soak my legs at the end of the tour. First section, that of the bridges, very cute and suggestive, very popular (too much😅). Along the route, about halfway, you can find a water source. All in all a very nice route, the only flaw is the last four kilometers of asphalt, which combined with the great heat, cooks you from your feet down to your lower parts.
For those wishing to do so, I suggest to park near the La Quiete kiosk in order to reduce the stretch of asphalt to just over 3 km to do all at the beginning.
Beautiful very varied route, it begins and ends with the Sassi and in the middle takes the path of the bridges, where there are about 20 fords on the stream. There is also a bit of sunny asphalt, but also lots of woods and meadows.
Very beautiful and panoramic ring. If you leave early in the morning, it is better to follow it in the opposite direction, leaving the path of the bridges at the end. The path from the parking lot towards the Mulino della Riva passing through Sant'Apollinare is largely exposed to the sun.