First stop Villa Verucchio. The Marecchia from downstream

Car park: Parco Marecchia, Via Casetti 2229
Duration: approximately 45–60 minutes

The journey begins along the River Marecchia. From Parco Marecchia in Villa Verucchio, you reach the cycle and footpath and walk for a short stretch along the floodplain, amongst riverside vegetation, fields and river gravel.

This is the first change of perspective on the route: you view the Valmarecchia from below, following the course of the river.

Second stop Torriana. The Valmarecchia seen from above

Car park: lay-by beneath the walls of Scorticata,
Duration: approx. 30–45 minutes

From Villa Verucchio, head up towards Torriana until you reach the hamlet of Scorticata, on the summit of Monte di Scorticata.

Leave your car at the foot of the walls and walk up to the hamlet and the viewpoint. Here, the view changes: the Valmarecchia valley unfolds before you, amongst ridges, fields and the hills of the hinterland. On clear days, the view stretches as far as the coast and the Adriatic Sea.

Third stop Montefiore Conca – Between the village and the hills

Carry on towards Valconca until you reach Montefiore Conca, dominated by the Rocca Malatestiana.

A short walk allows you to explore the village and reach the viewpoints overlooking the valley, amongst farmland, olive groves and woods. From this elevated vantage point, the landscape changes once more: the hills become gentler and the coastline appears in the background.

A little bonus: along the route you’ll also find a Big Bench, ideal for a short break.

Fourth stop The underground landscape

In Onferno, in the Gemmano area, the journey takes on a whole new dimension.

You descend into the Onferno Caves, a karst complex carved out of gypsum, which can be visited with a guide.

The light, the temperature and the underground environments completely transform the landscape compared to the previous stops. Here there are no views to admire: you traverse the landscape from within.

Fifth stop Montegridolfo – The sea as seen from inland

The final stage leads to Montegridolfo, in the hills on the border with the Marche region.

Once through the castle gate, you can walk along the ramparts of the southern walls. After the river, the hills and the underground passages, the journey ends with a new perspective: the coastal plain and the sea, viewed from inland.

Tips for true professionals

• Book your visit to the Onferno Caves. The tour of the underground complex is guided: it is therefore important to check the days, times and booking procedures before you set off.
• Dress in layers. For walks in the open air, clothing suitable for autumn is sufficient, whilst for the caves it is advisable to bring a jumper or a light jacket and shoes with non-slip soles.
• Allow plenty of time. The route isn’t a race through five stages: its real appeal lies in the chance to stop, walk a short distance, take in the scenery and set off again.