Route of the two valleys

This cycle touring route offers full immersion along the high ridge of the Tuscan–Emilian Apennines, in pristine environments rich in biodiversity between the Reno and Limentra valleys. It is ideal for mountain-bike and gravel-bike enthusiasts, for horseback trekking, and—when there is snow—for fat biking and snow walking. The route provides a complete experience of sport and nature.

It starts from the Pracchia railway station, which is easily reachable by train from the provinces of Bologna and Pistoia. From the village, follow the uphill road to the right near the Mellini hotel-restaurant, continuing through striking landscapes and lush forests.

The route passes through the village of Frassignoni, in the municipality of Sambuca Pistoiese, with its many hamlets, and reaches Monte Pidocchina, from where, taking the right-hand junction, you descend toward the Passo della Collina, crossing the Acquerino Forest Reserve, a natural area of great scenic value. Once you reach Monachino, the itinerary connects with the Ciclovia del Sole, which links Bologna to Pistoia, integrating the route into a wider national cycling network.

Continuing to the left, the road gently rises and falls for about 4 km until reaching the cross above the village of Posola, where a local tourism office is active in summer and where private accommodation is available. Additional lodging options can be found in the nearby hamlets of Canal di Sasso and Sambuca Castello, which offer bike shelters and welcoming facilities, enriching the experience among the historic and natural beauty of the Apennines.

From Posola, the paved road quickly descends from 1000 to 550 meters at Taviano in just 4.5 km. From Taviano, follow the SS64 Porrettana to Pavana, where you can either continue on the main road or take the left turn that passes through the village. Upon reaching Ponte della Venturina (Bologna), take the road to the left, which leads back to Pracchia via the Via Traversa for 12 km, returning to the starting point.

During the summer months, it is possible to stop along the way at the equipped river beach of Molino del Pallone, on the Bologna side, for a refreshing swim, or at other river beaches along the Reno River.