> Hike the first half of the Via degli Dei
> Spend the night in handpicked countryside accommodations
> Before and after: accommodation included in Bologna
Wake up to the scent of cypress trees and start walking. After just a few kilometers, you’re already surrounded by rolling Tuscan hills, tiny villages, and Roman roads that whisper stories. This is no lazy stroll. You’ll be clocking 6+ hours of hiking a day, conquering trails that demand your full attention, including stretches rated T3. The views? Worth every step.
This 5-day trip covers the first section of the Via degli Dei, from Bologna to Bruscoli. You’ll hike through the Apennines with overnight stays in Sasso Marconi, Monzuno, and Bruscoli. Expect proper trekking days — nothing fluffy here. We’ll take care of your stays before and after in Bologna, so all you have to do is bring your hiking legs.
The Via degli Dei officially starts in Bologna, but we skip the urban stretch and begin your adventure where nature takes over. Take a quick 30-minute train ride to Sasso Marconi, where the trekking begins.
The day starts in the open Mugnano Meadows, a gentle introduction to the trail with wide views and fresh country air. From there, the route enters the woods for a T3-rated section—a more technical part through dense forest that requires attention and good footing.
As the trees thin out, the landscape opens to rolling hills and classic Tuscan scenery, with farmhouses and wide horizons. The final part of the day includes a gradual ascent to Monzuno, a quiet village surrounded by green ridgelines.
From Bruscoli, the trail begins with an uphill hike to Lago del Passeggere, followed by a steady climb to Le Banditacce Summit (1,204 m)—the highest point on the Via degli Dei. From this scenic peak, descend through ancient forest trails along the Flaminia Militare, a Roman road that leads you to the German Military Cemetery at Futa Pass, a striking and solemn place of remembrance.
We leave the Via degli Dei here and continue towards Monte Citerna and the Rifiletti ruins, passing through quiet woodland to reach Valico della Crocetta. This final stretch connects with the Via della Lana e della Seta (*The Way of Wool and Silk*), guiding you past small rural settlements and wooded paths to Vernio.
Your journey ends here. From Vernio, take a 1-hour train back to Bologna, where a well-earned night of rest awaits.
