Vezzano Sul Crostolo: Trails, Nature and History

In Vezzano sul Crostolo, hiking trails, historic buildings and distinctive landscapes offer different focal points for a stay. Those who want to explore the area can choose between long-distance routes, a circular trail and places steeped in history. The geological features along the Crostolo and local festivals also shape the character of the municipality.

Hiking trails and a variety of routes

A rich network of hiking trails opens up the area around Vezzano sul Crostolo. The Anello Vezzano-Pecorile circular trail links dense oak woods with views of the badlands and stone villages. Forest, open countryside and built-up areas therefore sit side by side along one route—a different way of finding your bearings than on a trail defined mainly by its stages and endpoints.

The Via Matildica del Volto Santo 4 leads from Reggio Emilia to Castello di Canossa through the centre of Vezzano, then continues via the shared cycling and walking path to the EcoParco di Vezzano. The first section of the Cammino di San Pellegrino runs from the Chiesa di San Pellegrino in Reggio Emilia to Montalto in Vezzano sul Crostolo. The entire Cammino is divided into five stages and is about 120 kilometres long. It was designed to be rideable almost entirely by mountain bike; 95 percent of it is suitable for cycling.

Another historical, cultural and religious route leads from Vezzano to Canossa, with an alternative route to Montalto. The routes thus differ in their connections and focus: from a circular trail through woods and villages to a multi-stage Cammino and a route with Canossa as its destination. When planning a trip, take current trail conditions into account. The section of the Ciclopedonale Matildica between Via Kennedy and La Pinetina reopened to traffic on August 2, 2025, following safety work; check current conditions before setting out.

Traces of history and architecture

Several tower houses dating from the 15th century can still be seen in the town centre and hamlets. Montalto also preserves traces of the medieval history of the Canossa family. The grounds of the Chiesa vecchia di Montalto contain the remains of a church consecrated in 1172 and demolished in 1959. There is also a 17th-century bell tower, as well as a surviving perimeter wall and steps leading to the church square.

Other sites reveal different aspects of local architectural history. Cavazzone is a rural complex of architectural and historical interest, comprising a long portico, an oratory dedicated to the Annunciation and a defensive tower that may date from the 15th century. In Riolo, a 14th-century well and two towers incorporated into the middle row of houses preserve distinctive architectural features. Casa Rosini has a stately 16th-century tower and a smaller one dating from the 15th century. At Casa Caprari, architectural and pictorial traces remain of a 15th-century building identified as a former oratory of the Visitation.

Landscape, geology and nature

The landscape can also be understood through its geological features. Along the Torrente Crostolo, steep walls of Pliocene blue clay enclose the water; the clay contains numerous marine fossils. On the right bank of the Crostolo, the Natura 2000 site IT4030017 includes the Gessi di Vezzano. Alongside its trails, these geological and landscape features give the area a distinctive connection with nature.

Monte Duro is covered by an extensive woodland of natural and scenic interest, which preserves botanical and faunal features. Near Casa Casino on Monte Duro there is probably a spring that can serve as an important resting place for hikers. The description of the spring is qualified: it is likely to be there, but its presence should not be taken as certain.

Festivals throughout the year

Recurring events include the Sagra di San Lorenzo in Montalto, held from August 8 to 11. The local festival features food stalls, exhibitions and musical entertainment. The Festa dell’Asparago Selvatico takes place on the first Sunday in May; the programme includes tastings, food stalls and a market selling local products. The Fiera di San Martino falls on the second Sunday in November and combines a special market with exhibitions, crafts, music and an amusement park.

Dates and programme details may vary from one edition to another. If one of these events is central to your travel plans, check the programme for the relevant year. This lets you combine Vezzano sul Crostolo’s hiking and cultural attractions with a specific event date, without confusing the different routes or historic sites.

Discover more destinations: Cerreto Alpi, Cervarezza, Castellarano, Villarotta, Casale, Montecatini, Montecchio Emilia, Salvaterra

For the main travel overview: Reggio Emilia.