The 5 Mountain Passes of Romagna

Duration:  3 days
Total Distance:  approx. 330–350 km
Difficulty:  Medium (mountain roads with tight curves)
Recommended bikes:  Touring, Naked, Road Enduro

Day 1: Forlì – Meldola – Rocca delle Camminate – Predappio
Total km: 70 km | Riding time: 2 hours | Difficulty: Medium

Our journey begins in Forlì, an ancient city along the Via Emilia. The tour starts at Porta Schiavonia, the only surviving medieval city gate. From there, we head to the historic center to visit the Abbey of San Mercuriale, a fine example of Lombard Romanesque architecture, and the San Domenico Museums, which house Italian art masterpieces. Leaving Forlì, we cross gentle hills to reach Meldola, where a majestic medieval fortress overlooks the town. Just a few kilometers away, nestled in the woods, lies the former Monastery of Scardavilla, a serene and contemplative site. We then climb toward the Rocca delle Camminate, once Mussolini’s summer residence, now a panoramic terrace over the valley. The day ends in Predappio, a town known for its 1930s Rationalist architecture, with landmarks like Mussolini’s birthplace and the monumental cemetery.

Where to eat  :
Agriturismo Al Colle Meldola – A true taste of Romagna: local cured meats and cheeses, handmade cappelletti, and wines from the Bidente Valley.

Points of Interest:

• Forlì: San Domenico Museums, Abbey of San Mercuriale
• Meldola: Medieval Fortress, Rocca delle Camminate

Day 2: Predappio – Rocca San Casciano – Cento Forche – Muraglione – Tre Faggi – Stia
Total km: 130 km | Riding time: 4 hours | Difficulty: High

We begin the day in Predappio, heading smoothly toward Rocca San Casciano, a hidden gem among the hills. From here, we tackle one of bikers’ favorite routes: the SP23, with its hairpin turns leading to the legendary Passo delle Cento Forche. Descending into Tuscany, we follow the SS67, the iconic Traversa di Romagna, until we reach the famed Muraglione Pass, an icon of Italian motorcycling and a gathering place for riders. After a well-earned break, we continue to Passo dei Tre Faggi, where ancient forests and winding roads guide us to Corniolo and Fiumicello. The day ends with the spectacular Passo della Calla, one of the most scenic crossings of the Apennines, offering breathtaking views over the Casentino Forests, before descending into the Tuscan village of Stia.

Where to eat  ):
Locanda Il Muraglione – A legendary biker stop: mushroom tagliatelle, wild boar stew (cinghiale in salmì), and homemade desserts.

Points of Interest:

• Muraglione Scenic Viewpoint
• Woodland roads of Passo della Calla
• Medieval bridge in Stia

Day 3: Stia – Camaldoli – Fangacci – Badia Prataglia – Mandrioli – Viamaggio – Caprile
Total km: 130–140 km | Riding time: 3.5 hours | Difficulty: High

The day begins with a spiritual and natural touch: we ride to the enchanting Hermitage of Camaldoli, nestled deep within the Casentino Forests. Founded in 1012, this sacred site radiates peace and beauty. We continue on a short, easy unpaved stretch to Passo dei Fangacci, surrounded by towering silver fir trees. Then we descend into Badia Prataglia, one of the most authentic mountain villages in Tuscany. Next comes the panoramic Passo dei Mandrioli, offering sweeping views over the Savio Valley, followed by a thrilling final series of curves that lead us to the majestic Passo di Viamaggio. From here, the landscape opens to red gullies and the Tiber Valley, the natural border between Tuscany and Umbria. Our journey concludes in Caprile, a quiet village surrounded by greenery, where the “blue line of the sea” can be seen in the distance on clear days.

Where to eat:
Locanda dei Monaci Camaldoli – Simple dishes full of tradition: chestnut soups, forest cheeses, mushrooms, and monastic desserts.

Points of Interest:

• Hermitage of Camaldoli among the trees
• Panoramic curve at Passo dei Mandrioli
• Source of the Marecchia River in Caprile

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Best travel times: May–June or September–October
Recommended bike types: Touring, road enduro, naked
What to bring: Light rain gear, camera, reusable water bottle, power bank