Fortresses, parish churches and a single trail around Brisighella
Itinerary: Borgo Rivola, Orsara, Baffadi, Sant’Andrea, Rontana, Zattaglia, Borgo Rivola
This circular itinerary is ideal for mountain bike experts that are well trained: 60 kilometres and a vertical rise of 2,000 metres are undoubtedly numbers that only those with a good degree of training behind them can manage during a day off-road. But don’t worry, because the route is spectacular thanks to the itinerary’s natural backdrop, which is well-sign posted and well-known, like the Corolla delle Ginestre. The nature park of the Vena del Gesso and the hills around Borgo Rivola, Casola Valsenio and Brisighella offer breath-taking paths and single trails and obviously, enchanting panoramic views. Hidden in the mountains, you’ll find some treasures that bear witness to the ancient history of this territory, like the fortress of Mount Battaglia, the towers of Sintria and the parish church of Monte Mauro.
Curiosities
The fortress of Mount Battaglia
Situated 715 metres above sea level in Casola Valsenio, the fortress of Mount Battaglia was the setting in autumn 1944 of a bitter battle with the partisans of the 36th Garibaldi Brigade and the Allied forces fighting against the German infantry. Today, there are many headstones and memorial plaques to the fallen, including some commemorating the Germans, to symbolise peace and reconciliation. Every year, on the first Sunday in September, ANPI (National Association of Italian Partisans) organises a ceremony to remember the victims of the battles that took place at the fortress in 1944.
