The Bassa Parmense

Parma is a region where historical and architectural beauty blends perfectly with the rural and natural landscape. A cycle-tourist route that touches some of the most evocative places in the area, such as the Reggia di Colorno, the Rocca Sanvitale di Fontanellato, the Rocca di Soragna and the Rocca di San Secondo, offers a journey through history, art and breathtaking views.

Reggia di Colorno: the “Versailles” of Parma
The starting point of our itinerary is the magnificent Reggia di Colorno, an imposing architectural complex that, with its gardens and sumptuous rooms, is often compared to the famous palace of Versailles. Built in the 18th century at the behest of Duchess Maria Luigia of Austria, the Reggia di Colorno is today a museum and cultural center. The park that surrounds it, with fountains and tree-lined avenues, is perfect for a walk or a break after the first part of the route by bike.

Its grandeur and strategic position along the Po River make it an unmissable destination for cycle tourists.
Near the Great River is also the Biosfera Aquarium where you can admire some of the most common species of the Po and inland waters.

Rocca Sanvitale di Fontanellato: between history and legends
From Colorno, the route continues towards Fontanellato, where the historic Rocca Sanvitale is located. The fortress, built in the 15th century, is famous for its moat and imposing defense walls. Inside, the Rocca Museum houses a rich collection of art and historical artifacts, while the Sala del Camino is decorated with frescoes that tell the story of the Sanvitale family.

The Rocca is also known for its suggestive view of the Fontanellato Castle immersed in water, which makes the landscape even more fascinating. Another ideal stop for a break during the cycle tour.

You can make a gourmet stop at Paninart in Fontevivo.

Rocca di Soragna: the castle of the marquises
Rocca di Soragna, located in the heart of Bassa Parmense, is another essential stop on this itinerary. Dating back to the 9th century, the fortress is one of the best preserved castles in the area and, still today, is owned by the Meli Lupi family of Soragna. Inside you can visit frescoed halls, armories and the famous “Sala delle Gesta dei Cavalieri”.

A visit to Rocca di Soragna allows you to immerse yourself in a medieval atmosphere and admire the beauty of the countryside that surrounds it, making the stage even more evocative.

Just behind Rocca Meli Lupi is the Parmigiano Reggiano Museum, inside an old dairy, which tells the story and curiosities of this very famous product.

Rocca di San Secondo: between history and art
The cycling itinerary ends with a visit to Rocca di San Secondo, a medieval castle located in the municipality of San Secondo Parmense, in the Emilian plain. The fortress, with its imposing keep and crenellated walls, dominates the surrounding landscape and offers a spectacular view of the area. The castle houses an interesting museum that tells the story of the Rossi family and the events related to the territory.

Furthermore, San Secondo is famous for its gastronomic tradition, in particular for the “Culatello di Zibello”, a typical cured meat that can be tasted in one of the local restaurants at the end of the route.

You can stop to sleep at the Room & breakfast Blue Garibaldi in Soragna.

This cycling route that crosses the Parma area is a fascinating journey through history, culture and nature. From medieval castles and fortresses to magnificent noble residences, each stop offers a unique and memorable experience. An ideal itinerary for those who want to discover the history and tradition of the province of Parma, cycling among the places that have written the history of Emilia-Romagna.

Inspiration for this route: the Guareschi trail and the Bassa parmense created by Fiab Parma.