Among the itineraries that allow you to discover the variety of the Apennine mountains, the excursion from Granaglione to Passo Tre Croci di Monte Cavallo is one of the most fascinating, especially in these days when the landscape is still white from the snowfall of the past few days.

An easy route suitable for everyone that will take you to one of the most suggestive places in the Alto Reno valley.

Granaglione

Granaglione is a small village in the municipality of Alto Reno Terme south of Bologna. The village, located at an altitude of about 600 metres, is characterised by old stone houses, wooded paths and a quiet atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city and surrounded by beautiful beech, chestnut, fir and pine forests.

The route

The hike covers about 9 km of trails, with a total altitude difference of up to 600 metres. We set off from Granaglione and take path no. 133 toward Monte dei Prati and Monte dei Boschi.

The itinerary is easy, provided you are in good physical shape and have suitable equipment.

Getting to Passo Tre Croci, Monte Cavallo

The pass that marks the culmination of the excursion, the Tre Croci of Monte Cavallo 1,100 metres pass above the sea level, acrossroads of many paths that continue towards the ridge or descend towards the nearby valleys. This pass takes its name from the three wooden crosses that stand at the top of the pass and testify to an ancient Bolognese mountain legend.

From here there is a 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains, with in the distance the profile of Monte Cocomero, Orsigna and further away Monte Gennaio.

The return will be a descent through chestnut woods on the Arsìcciola path, dedicated to the memory of Emilio Gadaleta, a prominent person in the CAI Alto Appennino Bolognese.

Useful tips

• Duration and Difficulty: The hike takes about 4-5 hours, with an altitude difference of 600 metres and a route that can vary in difficulty depending on the condition of the path. It is suitable for medium-level hikers, but can also be tackled by those in good physical shape.
• Equipment: It is recommended to wear hiking boots, carry water (at least 1L) and in case of snow, snowshoes are obligatory.
• Refuge and stop-off points: In the village of Granaglione there is a fountain and the delightful Come ‘Na Volta bar-restaurant, where it is possible to taste typical local products such as the wide selection of beers from the local Beltaine brewery and the many gastronomic products.