Scenic routes through charming villages, castles, and nature
The medieval village of Castell'Arquato, located on the hills of the Val d'Arda in the province of Piacenza, is a true journey back in time. Dominated by the majestic Rocca Viscontea, a 14th-century fortress, it offers spectacular panoramic views over the Po Valley and the Apennines.
The perfectly preserved village winds through cobbled alleyways, past historic buildings such as the Palazzo del Podestà and the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta, elegant examples of Romanesque and Gothic art. Castell'Arquato charms visitors with its romantic atmosphere and the rich history that can be felt in every corner.
Vigoleno, listed as one of the "Borghi più Belli d'Italia" (Most Beautiful Villages in Italy) and awarded the "Bandiera Arancione" (Orange Flag), is a perfect example of a medieval village in the province of Piacenza.
Dominated by imposing crenellated walls with a panoramic wall-walk, its defensive system is perfectly preserved.
Inside, the highlights include the keep, which can be visited on four floors, the square with a 16th-century fountain, and the Romanesque church of San Giorgio.
Salsomaggiore Terme, an oasis of relaxation between Parma and Piacenza, is a spa town with an elegant Art Nouveau and Art Deco style.
The city's symbol is the monumental Berzieri Thermal Baths, a 1923 masterpiece decorated by Galileo Chini.
In addition to its thermal wellness, the area offers trekking and cycling trails through the hills.
Strolling through the center, you can admire a true "artificial park" of Art Nouveau decorations on signs, balconies, and gates, in harmony with the garden architecture and the surrounding nature.
Velleia Romana, located in the Piacenza hills near Lugagnano Val d'Arda, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Northern Italy.
Strolling through the evocative ruins of the ancient Roman city, you can admire the forum, the basilica, and the thermal baths. The site also houses the Antiquarium, featuring unique artifacts and casts, such as the famous Tabula Alimentaria.
Every summer, the site comes to life with the Ancient Theatre Festival (Festival del Teatro Antico), offering a cultural experience that blends history, nature, and performance.
The Monte Moria Provincial Park, located at an altitude of about 900m between Morfasso and Lugagnano (PC), is a green oasis of over 1,000 hectares.
It offers charming woods of chestnut, beech, and oak trees, picnic areas, and easy trails for hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking. Also ideal for picnics, summer excursions, and mushroom picking, it provides a cool escape and relaxing views in close contact with nature.
The Labirinto della Masone in Fontanellato (PR) is the world's largest labyrinth, made of over 300,000 bamboo plants covering 8 hectares.
Created by Franco Maria Ricci, it offers an enchanting path that blends nature and art, featuring a central square for events, exhibitions, and a precious art collection.
Ideal for an adventurous family outing, it provides a unique experience of greenery, culture, and relaxation in the heart of Emilia.
Bardi Castle, an imposing medieval fortress on a red jasper spur in the Ceno valley (PR), dominates the confluence of the Noveglia and Ceno streams. Built in the late 9th century as a refuge from Hungarian invasions, in the 13th century it became the stately home of the Landi family, who transformed it into a luxurious princely residence.
Today, it is accessible with walkways, prisons, and museums, and offers an immersion into history and a unique medieval atmosphere. It is ideally suited for cultural visits and excursions.
Fidenza is the perfect shopping destination, thanks to the nearby Fidenza Village, a luxury outlet.
An ideal destination for lovers of designer brands, it offers a wide selection of fashion, accessories, and footwear at discounted prices.
The experience is enhanced by events and live performances, making the visit a complete and unforgettable one.
