Best mountain passes around Valmozzola offer routes through the Apennine mountains in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region. This area features historical routes that once served merchants and pilgrims, now providing opportunities for exploration. The landscape includes forests and elevated viewpoints, characteristic of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park. Valmozzola is characterized by its naturalistic landscapes and mountainous terrain, offering various trails.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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The Passo della Cisa is a mountain pass in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, located at 1,041 meters above sea level, which serves as the geographical and historical border between the provinces of Parma (Emilia-Romagna) and Massa-Carrara (Tuscany). It formally separates the Ligurian Apennines from the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, connecting the upper Val di Taro with Lunigiana. Strada Statale 62: The SS 62 della Cisa is the historic panoramic road that crosses the pass, famous among motorcyclists and cyclists for its hairpin bends and evocative views. Slopes: The Tuscan side from Pontremoli is 18 km long with slopes up to 8.5%, while the Emilian side from Ghiare di Berceto measures approximately 19.6 km with slopes up to 8%.
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Definitely to do, fantastic road
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wonderful view of the mountains (Mount Orsaro)
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Pass between the provinces of Massa and Parma
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The Passo della Cisa is a mountain pass in Italy that marks the separation between the Ligurian and Tuscan Apennines. For the Via Francigena, there is now a descent to Pontremoli of 18 km. We descend 799 meters in altitude. The average descent percentage is therefore 4.4%. If you ride in the other direction, you have conquered this climb.
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The church is located at the top of a steep staircase just after the Passo della Cisa. The church was built between 1919 and 1922 by Eugenia and Flavio Fasce, and designed by the famous architect Lamberto Cusani. The church was consecrated on August 16, 1921. However, the first mass was already celebrated in September 1920, when the construction work was almost completed. The church has a single nave with an attached bell tower. In 1926 the bell tower was demolished to build a deambulatory around the building, which was connected to the nave through four openings. The church thus took its current shape, and the following year the bell tower was also rebuilt, now separate from the church. The church was declared a Marian shrine in 1930 and has since attracted hundreds of pilgrims from Tuscany, Emilia and Liguria every year on August 29.
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The Passo della Cisa is a mountain pass in Italy that marks the division between the Ligurian and Tuscan Apennines Before the Via Francigena there is now a descent to Pontremoli of 18 km. We descend 799 meters in altitude. The average decline percentage is therefore 4.4%. If you drive in the other direction, you have conquered this climb 👍
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This saint statue adorns the Sella Di Monte Marina mountain pass at an altitude of 939 meters.
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The most popular mountain pass is Passo della Cisa, known for its historic role connecting the Po Valley and the sea, and its appeal to cyclists. Another highly regarded spot is Brattello Pass, nestled within the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park and featuring a network of historical paths.
Yes, the area offers spots suitable for families. For instance, the Shrine of Mary at Sella di Monte Marina is noted as family-friendly, offering a peaceful memorial at 939 meters altitude.
The mountain passes around Valmozzola are rich in natural beauty. You'll find yourself surrounded by the extensive forests of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park, especially around Brattello Pass. The landscape also features elevated viewpoints, offering scenic vistas of the Apennine mountains, and historical paths winding through woods, lakes, pastures, and chestnut groves.
The region is steeped in history. Passo della Cisa itself is a historic link, and nearby you'll find the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Guard, a Marian shrine attracting pilgrims since 1930. Brattello Pass is also crossed by ancient paths once used by merchants, pilgrims, and shepherds.
The Valmozzola area provides diverse outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, including challenging climbs towards Passo della Cisa. Hiking is also popular, with trails like the CAI 838: Ghiare di Berceto to Monte Marino Trail. For more options, check out the dedicated guides for Cycling around Valmozzola, Running Trails around Valmozzola, and Hiking around Valmozzola.
Yes, there are several hiking trails accessible from the mountain passes. For example, the Brattello Pass is a starting point for historical paths through forests. You can find moderate to difficult hiking routes in the area, such as the Lavacchielli Ghost Village Trail or the Monte Barigazzo and Monte Grosso Loop. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Hiking around Valmozzola guide.
The best season for hiking the mountain passes around Valmozzola is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are more accessible. Summer offers pleasant conditions for exploring the forests and enjoying the elevated viewpoints.
While Passo della Cisa can be popular, especially with cyclists, the broader network of historical paths around Brattello Pass and within the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park offers opportunities for quieter exploration. Many trails wind through dense forests and less frequented areas, providing a more secluded experience.
The trails around Valmozzola's mountain passes cater to various difficulty levels. You can find routes with gentle slopes, particularly appealing to cyclists on Passo della Cisa, as well as more challenging ascents. Hiking routes range from moderate, like the Monte Barigazzo Summit Trail, to difficult, such as the CAI 838: Ghiare di Berceto to Monte Marino Trail. Always check specific route details for difficulty before heading out.
Yes, the mountain passes around Valmozzola are known for their scenic viewpoints. The elevated positions within the Apennine mountains offer panoramic views of the surrounding forests and valleys. Both Passo della Cisa and Brattello Pass provide excellent opportunities to take in the picturesque landscape of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The gentle slopes and wide curves of passes like Passo della Cisa are a favorite for cyclists, while the ancient paths and serene forests around Brattello Pass offer a rich historical experience. The area's elevated viewpoints and the presence of religious sites also contribute to a memorable visit.


See even more epic mountain passes by checking out these guides around Valmozzola: