The Emilian Apennines is confirmed as an ideal landscape for lovers of Trail Running, running in nature, full of events and breathtaking routes, is one of the most versatile and evocative territories for this off-road discipline.
Running in these places means entering into symbiosis with a landscape that changes at every bend and stands out for its morphology shaped by rivers, dense forests and high-altitude trails, ideal for intense and shady trails. In addition, the gentle slopes and panoramic openings towards the plain are perfect for those who love medium distances and direct contact with nature.
Between challenging climbs, panoramic ridges, centuries-old woods and small villages that seem suspended in time, our valleys offer enthusiasts a real “natural laboratory” to train and compete.
Whether you’re an experienced athlete looking for ultra-challengers or newbies drawn to the beauty of natural trails, trail running has something to offer everyone. The important thing is to approach gradually, respect for the environment and the right equipment: trail shoes with good grip, hydration pack, technical clothing and poles for longer stretches.
This sport is also becoming a tool for promoting the territory, enhancing smaller villages and supporting the local economy. The races are often accompanied by cultural, gastronomic events and family activities, making Appennino Emilia a complete destination for those who love to travel actively.
In the foreground is the race “The Abbots Way“, one of the most fascinating on the national calendar held in June. A real legend among the paths of the Apennines that follows the ancient path of the monks from Bobbio to Borgotaro, crossing some of the most remote and fascinating landscapes of the Apennines. The Abbots Way is much more than a race: it is an immersive experience along the Via degli Abati, among fords, wild woods, medieval ruins and an authentic welcome that involves local communities.
The calendar of races in the Emilian Apennines is full of events, with races suitable for every level of preparation, from short trails on 10-20 km to ultras over 100 km.
In June, the Ferriere Trail Festival includes mountain running races in a natural environment, in semi-food self-sufficiency, on various tracks of old tracks and historic paths with 4 races. The Ginestrail di Vernasca, also in June, is a free walk with a route that winds for a total of 10 km, (5 outward and 5 return) through the hills and gullies of the Piacenziano in a particularly beautiful period, enriched by the flowering of brooms. At the end of June we also find the Monte Caio Trail, an event not to be missed with guaranteed fun. The town of Schia comes alive with colors and smiles to make you enjoy a weekend of wellness and sport.
In August, the Monte Sporno Trail in Langhirano passes through the splendid landscape of the Parma Valley adjacent to Langhirano, a UNESCO MAB area (Man and Biosphere intergovernmental program) that develops among the hills and vineyards around the Castle of Torrechiara.
In September, the Castelnovo ne’ Monti Stone Trail , which develops on the paths around Bismantova, and is now an event known far beyond the provincial borders. Also in September, the Scarpa della Val Trebbia di Bobbio which develops entirely in Val Trebbia also touching the municipalities of Corte Brugnatella and Coli, through the paths you can admire unique scenery of the bends of the Trebbia river.
In October, the Trail Running Truffle of Calestano, a unique opportunity to run in the Parma Apennines between history and nature, to rediscover old tracks and paths.
Finally, in November, the Winter Tarsogno Trail in Tornolo, an event characterized by a welcoming and sporty atmosphere, immersed in the natural landscapes of the Parma Apennines, offering participants a winter running experience on scenic and technical trails.
The watchword is to listen to your body and enjoy the landscape. Because every step, in these places, is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and with oneself.
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