Modena Outdoor
An invitation to take it slow
Whether you want to immerse yourself in uncontaminated nature, dedicate your days to sport, or simply unwind and recharge without a care in the world, the Modena area is the ideal place to do it, taking your time and embracing the pace of each season. All year round, from the plains to the mountains, you’ll find opportunities to discover new experiences that combine well-being, fun, and unforgettable scenery.
Explore trails and nature reserves
Whether you are walking or cycling, nature trails take you on a journey through a world of genuine beauty. Parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries not only protect biodiversity, they also embody the geological history of the Apennines. It’s no coincidence that a large part of this region has been recognised by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, a priceless ecosystem within which humans and nature have coexisted in harmony for centuries.
Apennine hospitality
The Apennines are the beating heart of outdoor travel in Modena, with Mount Cimone rising up to over 2000 m and offering commanding views reaching as far as the Adriatic, the Tyrrhenian, and even Corsica on a clear day. Around it, valleys, villages, and resorts welcome visitors every season, for trekking and mountain biking in summer, to gather mushrooms and search for truffles in autumn, and to enjoy skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The ever-changing scenery of Modena’s mountains never ceases to amaze.
Sports and leisure
The opportunities for all kinds of sports are endless here in Modena. Tennis, golf, horse riding, paragliding, skating, swimming, whatever your passion, facilities are widespread and accessible, whether you want to keep up with your training or try out a new experience. In winter, the Cimone area turns into the largest natural gym in Emilia-Romagna, with around 50 km of ski slopes and plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favourite snow sports, from sledding to ski mountaineering.
Water = Wellbeing
The water that flows here, through streams and waterfalls, has health-giving properties. At the Salvarola Spa, whose therapeutic waters were already appreciated in Roman times, travel becomes a sensory experience, an oasis of relaxation where you can recharge after a day spent outdoors, making the most of all the activities the area has to offer.
An experience for everyone
Whether you are looking for a quick getaway or a full-length holiday, the Modena Apennines offers something that families, athletes, and explorers will all appreciate: a unique blend of uncontaminated nature, outdoor activities, and opportunities to relax and unwind. A combination that makes every stay an all-round experience that will remain in your heart and mind forever.
The villages of the Modena Apennines
Nestled in the heart of the Apennines, this little gem offers a combination of nature, sport, and culture through the beauty of its medieval castle, high-altitude lakes, and the slopes of Emilia-Romagna’s largest ski district.
Awarded “Orange Flag” status, Fanano lies at the foot of Mount Cimone; the village combines art and nature, with its glacial lakes, waterfalls, woods, and its Sculpture Park, which attracts lovers of outdoor art .
A mountain town located in the heart of the Frignano area amidst castles and ancient churches, Pavullo retains its historical charm through buildings such as the Ducal Palace and overlooks the rugged beauty of the Sassoguidano nature reserve.
A town in Modena’s foothills, that brings together woods, hamlets, and waterfalls, Serramazzoni is the perfect place for hiking and biking, especially along the trails leading to the spectacular Cascate del Bucamante waterfalls.
A small village nestled in the woods at the foot of Mount Cimone, Montecreto combines peace and quiet with sport, with its walking and biking trails, its ski slopes, and its famous Natural Bike Park, making it the perfect place to enjoy the mountains all year round.
The birthplace of Italian rock star Vasco Rossi, Zocca is a lively town in the Modena Apennines known for its Chestnut Festival, its Chestnut and Borlengo Museum, and the nearby Sassi di Roccamalatina park.
Set amidst chestnut groves and surrounded by views of the Apennines, the village of Montese is dominated by its 13th-century fortress, a testament to the epic battles and a present-day reminder of the Gothic Line.
With its 14th-century castle and historical village, Guiglia looks out onto the plains below, hence its affectionate name “the balcony of Emilia”.It is the gateway to the Sassi di Roccamalatina Park area, which brings together nature, history, and local delicacies such as borlenghi.
Lying at the foot of Mount Cimone, Riolunato has a medieval old town and nearby hamlets steeped in history that tell the story of centuries of mountain life.
Sitting just this side of the border with Tuscany, Fiumalbo has “Orange Flag” status, an untouched medieval old town, and a wealth of sacred art.It is an ideal destination for hiking and winter sports.
Among woods and glacial lakes such as Lago Santo and Lago Baccio, Pievepelago is a popular destination for day trips and skiing.The village preserves local traditions such as the Corpus Christi Flower Festival.
Surrounded by chestnut groves, historical hamlets, and views of Mount Cimone, Polinago preserves memories of distant eras, making it perfect for lovers of nature, history, and peacefulness.
Lying in the lands of Matilda of Canossa, Frassinoro is imbued with spirituality and authenticity. It offers a combination of over a thousand years of history, untouched nature, and also snow sports in the Piandelagotti area.
Overlooked by a thousand-year-old fortress, Montefiorino was the seat of the first Partisan Republic in Italy.Combining history, nature, and tradition, this village embodies the essence of Modena’s Apennines.
Nestled in the valley of the Dragone river, Palagano brings together nature and history in its trails and medieval hamlets. At its heart lies the Santa Giulia Park, a living memory of the Resistance and the stories of the Frignano area.
Overlooking the Secchia river valley, Prignano is a haven of tranquillity and nature, perfect for hiking, biking, and for taking in the views from atop its Big Bench.
Set amidst the Frignano woodlands and crossed by the ancient Via Vandelli, Lama Mocogno is an ideal base for enjoying hikes and outdoor activities in the Piane di Mocogno area, surrounded by breathtaking views, and exploring local traditions.
Its river park, nearby hamlets, and historical watermills make Marano an ideal destination for walking, unwinding, and exploring nature in the foothills of Modena.