Hidden paradises of Emilia Romagna 20 minutes away from Via Emilia Route

The Via Emilia runs for over 200 kilometres through the plains and hills of Emilia Romagna, crossing the territory and city centres of the main towns. Built by the Romans more than 2000 years ago, the road is still the backbone of the region and one of the most frequently used routes.

Travelling along the Via Emilia at today’s speed, we are confronted with a beautiful succession of artistic cities and landscapes, almost like a “series” created by the hand of an artist: Rimini, Bologna, Parma and all the other art cities of Emilia Romagna.
But all you have to do is leave the marked route for a moment and take one of the many roads that criss-cross the territory to find yourself in front of paradisiacal landscapes, villages and towns far away from the daily hustle and bustle.

Today we take you on a tour of some of these places, just long enough to get lost in the hills and historic villages of Emilia Romagna. 5 destinations for lovers of relaxation, good food and the Italian countryside, no more than 25 minutes drive from the Via Emilia.

Saludecio

This pretty village, perched on the hills of the Conca Valley, is one of the most characteristic places in the province of Rimini: art, slow rhythms and that typical Italian lifestyle that is so much envied abroad.

Moreover, Saludecio is one of the painted towns of Emilia Romagna, and a stroll through its streets can be a truly artistic experience, as can a visit to its territory or the neighbouring villages.

During the week of 25 April, Saludecio hosts SalusErbe, an event dedicated to herbal medicine and organic food.

Saludecio Ph. Maxal Tamor via Shutterstock solo uso editoriale — Saludecio | Credti: Maxal Tamor, via Shutterstock (for editorial use only)

Oriolo Tower

Oriolo dei Fichi is a small, pretty village surrounded by vineyards, about 9 km south of Faenza, on the first hills of the Romagna Apennines, where you can enjoy outdoor sports, long walks and the good food of this part of Romagna.

We recommend it to those who love landscapes at sunset, good food and, of course, the good wine of these parts.

Oriolo dei Fichi Ph. ermess via Shutterstock — Oriolo dei Fichi | Credit: ermess, via Shutterstock

Dozza

The painted village of Emilia Romagna, which hosts the Biennial Art Exhibition of Painted Wall, needs no introduction.

An authentic open-air masterpiece, Dozza is also the headquarters of the Enoteca Regionale Emilia Romagna Regional. It is the ideal place to stroll among the colours and taste the local wines.

Dozza (BO) Ph. Vivida Photo PC via shutterstock solo uso editoriale — Dozza (BO) | Credits: Vivida Photo PC, via Shutterstock (for editorial use only)

Busseto

We are in the province of Parma, the birthplace of Maestro Giuseppe Verdi.

Busseto is a small pearl in the flat landscape of the Po Valley, surrounded by castles and green areas. It is an ideal destination for those who love food, music and the intense atmosphere of the banks of the Po.

Busseto (PR), Statua di Giuseppe Verdi — Busseto (PR), Giuseppe Verdi Statue | Credit: Trabantos, via Shutterstock (for editorial use only)

Travo

This charming village on the left bank of the River Trebbia is ideal for those wishing to explore the beautiful province of Piacenza.

The countryside of the Travo area is neatly cultivated up to the heights, where thick woods cover the mountain slopes. The Trebbia river, with its crystal-clear waters, is one of the few Italian rivers that can still be bathed in, and meanders spectacularly through one of the most evocative valleys of the Apennines.
This is a place for nature lovers and those who enjoy long walks in uncontaminated greenery.