3rd STAGE

Zena Pianoro – Loiano

20,5 km

DISTANCE

8h

term

1111/-605

DIFFERENCE IN HEIGHT

PATH

General information

The third stage features a wealth of points of interest and beautiful views.

From the Sanctuary of Monte delle Formiche, after admiring the Castle of Zena, the Torre dell'Erede, and the village of Tazzola (home to the Botroidi Museum), there is a descent that leads to the beautiful Naturalistic Archaeological Area of Monte Bibele, then arriving in Quinzano and from there undertaking the final climb towards Loiano and Monghidoro, up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Boschi, with a final barbecue with the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate.

What to see

Botroidi Museum

Halfway between Zena and Monte delle Formiche lies the picturesque village of Tazzola. Here, on the wall of an old stable, a sign guides visitors to the Botroidi Museum, a collection of unique anthropomorphic stones discovered along the Zena stream in the 1960s by Luigi Fantini. This geological journey allows visitors to experience 80 million years of history, inviting them to discover the earth's past through their senses: touching the stones, observing their colors, and smelling their scents. A direct and engaging experience that combines science and wonder. The museum is nestled in the unique setting of the Pliocene Buttress, an extraordinary nature reserve, home to fascinating natural monuments and a landscape that speaks to the eternity of nature.