Cycling in the hills of Bologna: on the roads of the Tour de France

The route in detail

Our loop begins in San Lazzaro di Savena near Parco della Resistenza, an ideal starting point to immediately get a feel for the hilly landscape. Leaving the town behind, you cycle toward Farneto, where the surroundings change rapidly: traffic thins out, the urban landscape recedes, and the view begins to open up onto the first rolling hills of the area.

From here, continue toward Botteghino: we are entering the famous Val di Zena, one of the cycling paradises in the area around Bologna. The road running alongside the Zena Stream crosses the Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi e Calanchi dell'Abbadessa, offering picturesque views of the hills as the slope begins to rise almost imperceptibly.

Once you reach the village of Botteghino di Zocca, turn right and begin the Botteghino climb (variant 1*). Short, steady, and moderately challenging, it offers a beautiful view of hills and badlands. There isn’t a true summit, but you reach a plateau where, if nothing else, the constant uphill climb ends. Then it’s a steep descent toward Pianoro.

The passage through Pianoro marks one of the route’s moments of respite. Here, the route heads back toward Bologna, but upon reaching Rastignano—another symbolic point marking the Tour stage’s passage through the Bologna area—you take the climb leading to Montecalvo (variant 2**). This climb is also short but features much steeper gradients than the previous one and will certainly make itself felt in your legs. It’s one of those spots where it’s worth looking up, taking a breath, and remembering why you chose to cycle through the hills: for the effort, yes, but above all for what comes right after.

Once past Montecalvo, the route offers one of the most beautiful stretches of the entire loop. The road descends toward Croara, winding through a green, elegant, and peaceful setting, with very pleasant views and a sense of immersion in the landscape that is truly rare so close to Bologna.

The final segment leads to Ponticella, where the descent and the straighter stretches gradually guide you back toward the finish (variant 3***). Your legs start to loosen up, the pace eases, and the route heads back toward San Lazzaro, completing a loop that successfully combines the charm of the hills, the memory of a great day of sports, and the simple pleasure of a beautiful bike ride.

Map from Garmin Connect

Practical tips for your bike ride

• When to go: Spring and early fall are the best times, with milder temperatures and light that’s particularly well-suited to highlighting the hilly landscape.

• Hydration: Bring at least one full water bottle with you, especially during the warmer months.
• Safety: The roads are generally pleasant to ride on, but in some places they remain narrow and require caution, particularly when descending.
• Equipment: Even for a relatively short ride, it’s useful to bring a spare inner tube, a pump or canister, and a small kit for mechanical emergencies.

• Pace: tackle the climbs at a steady pace; this route is best enjoyed as a scenic experience, not as a time trial.

• E-bike: this is an excellent option for those who want to take the route at a relaxed pace and focus primarily on enjoying the scenery.