Nature and parks
An itinerary full of suggestions, where nature is the protagonist. From the rugged beauty of the Marecchia Valley to the sweet harmony of the Conca Valley, one crosses parks, villages and valleys that tell of an authentic land, generous and deeply tied to its landscape.
From Rimini to the Marecchia Valley
Leave the sea behind and enter the Marecchia Valley. Follow the convenient cycle path from Rimini to Novafeltria. This valley is a tangle of rolling hills, historic villages and unique geological formations, such as the sandstone spurs that arrived here in ancient times from the Tyrrhenian coast.
First stop Torriana and Montebello Nature Observatory and Fauna Oasis
This is a super natural environment with all kinds of animals and plants: mammals and orchids, birds and pond vegetation.
In the exhibition rooms, you can take a real journey along the Marecchia River, from its source to its mouth, with faithful reconstructions of flora and fauna.
Outside, on the other hand, there is an amphitheatre that becomes an evocative "green classroom", an innovative sensory path (also for the differently abled) and a large picnic area equipped for relaxing in the open air.
Second stop Ca' Brigida di Verucchio, the fusion of nature and history
A paradise for wildlife and walkers. Nature is at home here: deer, hedgehogs, badgers, foxes, birds of prey of all kinds, and an infinity of butterflies and dragonflies. Not only fauna, but also history, with springs and traces of the Villanovan civilisation. The oasis is an invitation to explore, with 2.5 km of trails to explore. There are guided tours (hiking and educational), nursery activities and even work camps.
Third stop Sasso Simone and Simoncello Park 4,847 hectares of wilderness and views
In the heart of Montefeltro, amid historic villages and relaxing landscapes is a protected reserve of 4,991 hectares of pure beauty. Between Emilia-Romagna and Le Marche, it is a spectacular corner of the Apennines with wild nature and fascinating history. An ideal place to regenerate.
Fourth stop The Conca Valley and the fascination of water
The Conca Valley, too, is immersed in regenerating nature.
If you start from Cattolica and go up the river, you will come across San Giovanni in Marignano, Morciano and Montefiore Conca.
The Conca Valley cycle path is ideal for walks or leisurely rides, immersed in a landscape that alternates between spontaneous vegetation, cultivated fields and ancient chestnut groves. In the higher part, the greenery becomes more intense and wild, especially between Montefiore and Gemmano.
Sixth stop Onferno and the underground wonders Caves, bats and a protected reserve
The last stop, but an authentic jewel of the route, is the Onferno Nature Reserve in the municipality of Gemmano. Here you will find one of the most fascinating karst complexes in Italy: the Onferno Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 750 metres of tunnels carved by water into the chalky rocks and home to more than 6,000 bats.
Tips for true professionals
- For walkers, this is an area rich in marked trails perfect for trekking, mountain biking or even horse riding. One of the most classic walks is to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Saiano.
- Bring comfortable shoes, a light backpack and all the curiosity of those who know how to observe.