Cycling in the hills of Bologna: the Via Casaglia scenic loop

The route in detail

Following via Saragozza from the center towards Casalecchio, we turn left at the junction with via di Casaglia: this is where our ride begins. The ascent starts immediately, with some challenging ramps flanking the picturesque Villa Spada Park. After the first steep section, you'll encounter a couple of hairpin bends which, once cleared, give way to a gently sloping stretch that leads into the hilly area.

Here we find San Pellegrino Parkand the Trecento Scalini (Three Hundred Steps) on the right, iconic spots for picnics and summer aperitifs on the Bologna hills, while on the left, several clubs, small restaurants, and farmhouses will certainly pique our post-ride fantasies. But let's refocus on the road towards Monte Albano. The climb to this cluster of buildings continues in a pleasant and linear fashion. (Here you can opt for option 1*).

We are at the end of the actual climb and ahead of us, on the left, a green clearing opens up where we spot the historic church of Santa Maria Assunta di Casaglia. This marks the beginning of a more varied section, made of rolling hills with breathtaking panoramic points, until reaching the demanding gradients of Cavaioni Park (the Strava segment is aptly renamed "Muro di Cavaioni," with gradients between 15%-20% in the final stretch). After this grueling ramp, you can choose to take a break to enjoy the panoramic view over the Reno Valley (from the parking lot on the right) or a break at the park's kiosk. (At this point you can opt for options 2 and 3**).

The itinerary continues and further on we turn right at the intersection onto the scenic Via delle Lastre; here too, the road climbs and dips towards Monte Donato, in the heart of ForteBandiera Park. There is no shortage of evocative views and steep ramps, but these are the last ones. From here, in fact, begins a fun descent which, first via via Siepelunga and then via via Santa Barbara, leads back to the city by the GiardiniMargherita. Coasting along this city park, you finally arrive at Via Castiglione, which reconnects to the "Viali," the ring road system of Bologna's historic center.

Via the cycle path, we head back towards the starting point, turning left to close our loop on the pedals.

Map from Garmin Connect

Practical tips for your bike ride

• When to go: The ideal seasons are spring or autumn, when temperatures are mild and the landscape offers beautiful foliage or blossoms.
• Hydration: Make sure your water bottle is full; although there are refreshment points in the parks (Villa Spada, Cavaioni), public water fountains are not frequent along the ridge sections.
• Safety: The roads are paved but narrow. Always keep to the right, especially on blind descents.
• Equipment: Even though the ride is short, bring a puncture repair kit with you. The hills can be lonely, and a mechanical issue could cost you a long walk.
• E-bike Rent: If you don't have your own bike, you can rent one in the center of Bologna to enjoy the climb without a worry.