SD-GRAVEL Stage: Canossa Castle – Vetto d’Enza (RE)
Notes: From Castellaro a MC section on P NCB avoidable on A.
Description of the stage
Matilde’s castles are left behind to enter the valleys of the Tassobbio and Tassaro streams. It will be a succession of villages and tower houses to be crossed by cycling on ancient roads: paved mule tracks, stone walls, paths in the woods. You will discover the anthropomorphic images of Ceredolo dei Coppi and Vercallo, the magnificent Church of Pianzo, Mount Staffola which dominates the entire Apennines, the still functioning Chichino Mill, the church and castle of Crovara, the archaeological site of Monte Lulseto , the magnificent villages of Pineto and Spigone. Sometimes it will be necessary to make the sacrifice of walking and pushing the bike due to the rough surfaces and the steep slopes. It is the price that history demands to be touched with the wheels and to be seen carved in stone. The oldest one and also the recent one, history of Resistance and partisan warfare that has one of its memorials in Legoreccio.
It will be better to leave early in order not to be in a hurry and to be able to fully enjoy the beauty of these places. You cannot miss a stop in one of the many trattorias where the cuisine is still authentically traditional and homemade.
Alternative routes
SDMTB.2A Monte Tesa
Difference in height: +90 m;
Length: 1,7 km;
Difficulty: BC+/BC
Notes: NCB and steep climb
Short detour to reach an exceptional 360 ° panoramic point. According to "local rumors" it was at this peak that the armed guard following Emperor Henry IV encamped.
Monte Lulseto
The short visit to the archaeological site is to be done on foot; it is neither protected nor fenced; it is recommended to respect it , in particular not to step on the rock carvings.
Technical notes
Suggested stops: B&B Belvedere Mamma Rina; B&B Nonna Rosina (2 km uphill).
Water-refill stations: Ceredolo dei Coppi, Barazzone, Crovara, Pineto, Vetto.
Facilities: Several bars, trattorias and alternative stopping places located along the route; please consult the list of facilities for additional information.