High Route of the Parks: Stage 15

The hike usually takes around 4 hours and 42 minutes to complete. This duration is for the full 13.9 km (approximately 8.7 miles) trail, assuming a moderate pace.

This trail is rated as 'moderate' and classified as 'E - Escursionistico' (Hiking). While generally accessible, it requires a good level of fitness and sure-footedness due to varying terrain, including uneven and gravel sections, as well as ascents and descents. It might not be ideal for absolute beginners.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll encounter gravel and uneven roads, reforested conifer areas, and sections along a carriage road. The path also follows the Santerno Riverbank, passes through scrubland, and includes both paved and unpaved surfaces on Via Guasteto, concluding with a forest road.

The most significant highlight is the historic Alidosi Bridge in Castel del Rio, a masterpiece of Renaissance civil engineering. You'll also pass the ruins of the Castellaccio Alidosi, enjoy picturesque views along the Santerno River, and experience the historic urban fabric of Castel del Rio's ancient Mercatale. The diverse landscape includes reforested conifers, scrubland, and typical Tuscan-Romagna Apennine vegetation.

The trail begins near Case Morara. While specific parking details aren't provided, it's advisable to look for designated parking areas in or near Case Morara to access the starting point of the CAI Trail 707. For the end point, parking would be available near Ponte degli Alidosi in Castel del Rio.

No, the route from Case Morara to Ponte degli Alidosi (via CAI Trail 707) is a point-to-point trail. It starts near Case Morara and concludes at the Alidosi Bridge in Castel del Rio, meaning you'll need to arrange transportation for your return journey.

Yes, the route covers significant sections of other official trails. It aligns for 94% with Alta Via dei Parchi: Tappa 15 and 76% with Alta Via dei Parchi MTB - Tappa 15. It also intersects with parts of the Ciclovia del Santerno and Via Guasteto, among others.

Generally, hiking trails in Italy, especially those designated 'E - Escursionistico', are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife, livestock, or when passing through populated sections like Castel del Rio. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.

The trail can be enjoyed during spring, summer, and autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and pleasant temperatures, while autumn provides beautiful fall foliage. Summer can be warm, so an early start is advisable. Winter hiking might be possible but could involve colder temperatures and potentially slippery conditions on certain sections.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the CAI Trail 707 or to access the general areas of the Parco regionale dei laghi di Suviana e Brasimone where this trail is located. However, always respect local regulations, especially regarding waste disposal and fire prevention.

While Case Morara is a smaller starting point, the trail concludes in Castel del Rio, which is a village with medieval character. Here, you can expect to find various amenities such as cafes, restaurants, and shops, particularly around the ancient Mercatale and near the Alidosi Bridge.