Stage 02: From Canossa to Monte Staffola
This stage features a wonderful view over the whole Reggio Emilia section of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines and the Pietra di Bismantova. Especially notable is the section between Barazzone and Pianzo and on Monte Staffola, perhaps the most panoramic place in the mid-Reggio Emilia hills. You will come across characteristic villages, with "apotropaic" representations on the houses, the enchanting Pieve di Pianzo, tower houses and small oratories to complement the natural landscape with the human one. The stage length is slightly above average, but it also benefits from the variety of the landscapes crossed and the wide views as far as the eye can see. Food and pharmaceuticals can be purchased in Trinità.
Notes
- Make sure to have up-to-date maps, as the original route has been modified in some points: the climb to Monte Barazzone has been crossed out and the last stretch of the stage from Monte Staffola has been changed.
- For an overnight stay, check availability in one of the accommodations around Monte Staffola. Therefore, allow for transfer time to the place of your overnight stay.
Description of the stage
Leaving behind Canossa's Castle, the eye is immediately attracted by the impressive gullies and, in the background, by the scenery of Rossena’s Castle of and its tower, Rossanella. After crossing the provincial road (SP73) with caution, the wide meadow plain of Mount Tesa is reached and from it, it's possible to see the Alpine cloister to the North. Going down the opposite side, the SD overlaps the SM (Matilde Path) for about one km, where a detour to the right is recommended to visit the village of Ceredolo dei Coppi (restaurant and bar). Resuming the SD path, you reach the other beautiful village of Vercallo and then Barazzone (tavern). Following the ridge and then descending towards North, you reach the suggestive and ancient Church of Pianzo (visit recommended), and afterwards the village of Trinità, where you continue to Monte Cavaliere, to enjoy the Apennines panoramic views. Remaining at the same altitude, ascend to Monte Staffola (featuring to the South an enormous landslide), destination of the stage and then head towards the place chosen for your overnight stay.
Useful Info
- If, upon your arrival in Canossa the previous day, you had not managed to visit the castle's vestiges and the museum on the top of the cliff, it is strongly advice to do so before your departure;
- For a guided tour of Pianzo's Church call in advance (only in Italian): Tel 0039 349 3400071;
- For food provision check Ceredolo dei Coppi and Trinità;
Along the way you will find some choices of food catering (taverns, restaurants): consult the site interactive map of this website to locate them. In the villages near Mount Staffola, there are some Bed & Breakfasts or farmhouses that can accommodate the traveler for an overnight stay: consult the interactive map of this website to locate them. It is always recommended to book in advance.
Please report any critical issues or proposals for the itinerary improvement by writing to cairesentierodeiducati@gmail.com. Thanks for your collaboration!