Walk from Bologna to Faenza – Via dei Gessi e dei Calanchi

Imagine a path that seems to glisten under the sun as it passes through amazing, varied landscapes. The Via dei Gessi e dei Calanchi is exactly this – a magnificent path that takes you from Bologna to Faenza, passing through Brisighella and the heart of Emilia-Romagna.

This 100-kilometre (62 mi) route is divided into seven well-balanced stages designed for anyone who enjoys hiking, regardless of level. The Via dei Gessi e dei Calanchi has breathtaking beauty and explores the rich history of the places it passes through.

The area is made from gypsum which gradually settled here over millions of years. You may be surprised to learn that gypsum is not actually white, but transparent. The purer it is, the greater its transparency. Ancient Romans even quarried chalk to make glass for windows. That's why the paths here literally glisten under the sun.

Your walk begins in Bologna San Ruffillo and winds through two regional parks and a series of picturesque villages. You'll immerse yourself in amazing nature as you explore the striking gullies and unique geological formations.

Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit unique villages such as Dozza, famous for its murals on house facades, and Brisighella, a village suspended in time. You'll also explore the Gessi Bolognesi and Calanchi dell'Abbadessa Regional Park and the Vena del Gesso Romagnola Regional Park.

I recommend trying the delicious local cuisine on your hike. The region of Emilia Romagna is renowned for its excellent gastronomy, and you'll find traditional osterias serving local specialties, as well as bars where you can taste fine wines.

This hike is suitable at any time of year, but it’s at its best during spring and autumn. In spring, you'll have the blossoms in bloom around you, fields are dotted with purple artichokes and green gullies, while the woods offer you shelter from the sun. In autumn, you'll find a myriad of warm colours, the scents of wild plants, and plenty of chestnuts to forage.

Accommodation is in ample supply along the way, but it’s still worth booking in advance. The arrival points are cosy villages where you can find hotels, B&Bs, farmhouses, and rental properties.

The public transport network is also convenient here. Most of the stage ends are well connected to local bus lines, while the cities of Bologna, Brisighella, and Faenza are easily accessible by train.

I recommend paying attention to weather conditions. If the weather is bad, you’ll need to be extra careful on the trail. The clay gullies and chalky soil become slippery and difficult to walk uphill after rain, so it’s best to avoid during wet weather.

You don’t need any special skills to tackle the Chalk and Gully Trail. However, as it’s a multi-day trail, it's best to have some hiking experience behind you.

My final tip is to make sure that you take time to see the Highlights en route. The gleaming chalk roads, the charming villages of Dozza and Brisighella, the local delicacies and the hospitality of the locals. There are also farms en route that produce oil and wine and where you can taste delicious food whilst admiring the surrounding hills.

The Via dei Gessi e dei Calanchi is an unforgettable experience through breathtaking landscapes, history, and culture. Whether you harbour a passion for hiking or want to learn more about the natural areas of Emilia-Romagna, this trail is a continuous discovery of emotions. Be enchanted by the beauty of the area on the Via dei Gessi e dei Calanchi. Enjoy your walk!