About the City
Baiso
Small community nestled in the hills of the Reggio Emilia Apennines
Baiso è una tranquilla cittadina caratterizzata da un ritmo di vita lento e rilassante, perfettamente allineata ai principi del movimento Cittaslow. Posta sulle colline dell'Appennino Reggiano, Baiso è un luogo dove il rispetto per la natura e per il passato è un valore fondante. Questa cittadina respinge la globalizzazione e lo sviluppo centrato sulle imprese mainstream, scegliendo di preservare i suoi tesori culturali, storici e naturali. Tra le attività principali legate alla sua adesione a Cittaslow, Baiso promuove la Festa della Natura, un evento annuale che celebra l'ambiente locale, e la Sagra della Polenta Concia, che valorizza un vecchio piatto tipico del posto. Il turismo sostenibile è incoraggiato, con percorsi escursionistici per i visitatori volti a scoprire l'incantevole scenario dell'Appennino emiliano, i piccoli borghi e le numerose chiese sparsi nel suo territorio. All'interno della comunità è possibile cogliere l'ospitalità e la cordialità degli abitanti, che amano coinvolgere i visitatori nelle tradizioni locali. L'artigianato, l'agricoltura e la viticoltura sono le principali attività locali. Il turista responsabile può apprezzare il paesaggio naturale, la gastronomia locale e le tradizioni culturali.
The Slow Experience
Baiso is a charming village in Emilia-Romagna, nestled between spectacular badlands and lush forests. This one-day itinerary will guide you through breathtaking landscapes, historical landmarks, and authentic flavors, offering you an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Reggiano Apennines.
Details & Programs
Day 1: Exploring Baiso and Its Surroundings
• 9:00 AM – Arrival and Check-in at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Begin your experience in Baiso with check-in at Agriturismo La Borgaccia, located in the Reggio hills at 500 meters above sea level. This agriturismo offers a peaceful atmosphere and traditional Emilian cuisine made with local ingredients, in line with the Cittaslow philosophy that values tradition and the slow rhythm of rural life.
• 10:30 AM – Hike on the Casale Hiking Loop. After settling in, set out on the Casale Hiking Loop, a trail of about 11 km with a maximum elevation gain of 200 meters. This route will take you through the colorful badlands of Casale, offering breathtaking views of the Apennines and the spire of Monte Valestra. The hike is ideal for immersing yourself in nature and appreciating local biodiversity.
• 1:30 PM – Picnic or Lunch at a Local Restaurant. After the hike, you can enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature or choose a local restaurant to savor traditional Emilian dishes. Alternatively, Agriturismo La Borgaccia offers lunch by reservation, featuring specialties prepared with zero-kilometer ingredients.
• 3:30 PM – Visit to Big Bench #93. In the afternoon, head to Big Bench #93, a giant bench that is part of the Big Bench Community Project. Located in a scenic spot, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills, making it a perfect photo opportunity and a place to relax and enjoy the landscape.
• 5:00 PM – Exploring Baiso's Historic Center. Continue with a stroll through Baiso’s historic center, characterized by historic buildings and an authentic atmosphere. Visit the Church of San Lorenzo Martire, the village’s parish church, which houses significant artworks and reflects the community’s religious history.
• 7:30 PM – Dinner at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Return to the agriturismo for a traditional Emilian dinner. The restaurant, open by reservation only, offers dishes prepared with local ingredients, allowing you to fully experience the region’s authentic flavors.
• Overnight at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. After dinner, enjoy a restful night in the comfortable rooms of the agriturismo, surrounded by the quiet of the Reggio hills. This stay offers an authentic experience aligned with the Cittaslow philosophy, promoting wellbeing and quality of life.
Day 2: Nature and Local Culture
• 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Start the day with breakfast made from fresh, local ingredients, prepared according to Emilian tradition at Agriturismo La Borgaccia.
• 9:00 AM – Hike on the San Cassiano Hiking Loop. After breakfast, embark on the San Cassiano Hiking Loop, a 10 km trail with a maximum elevation gain of 430 meters. The route follows ancient mule tracks, offering panoramic views over the Secchia Valley and passing historical sites such as the medieval tower of Debbia and the Church of San Cassiano.
• 12:30 PM – Lunch at Ristorante Bar Cà Poggioli. At the end of the hike, head to Ristorante Bar Cà Poggioli, known for its refined atmosphere and traditional Tuscan-Emilian cuisine. Here you can enjoy typical dishes prepared with local ingredients.
• 2:30 PM – Visit to Baiso Castle. In the afternoon, visit Baiso Castle, a historic fortress overlooking the village. While it is privately owned and not always open to visitors, the exterior offers panoramic views of the Tresinaro Valley and represents an important piece of local history.
• 4:00 PM – Tasting of Local Products at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Return to the agriturismo for a tasting of typical local products such as cheeses, cured meats, and wines—perfectly aligned with the Cittaslow philosophy that values the area’s food and wine traditions.
• 5:30 PM – End of the Itinerary. After the tasting, conclude your stay in Baiso, taking with you memories of an authentic experience rich in nature, culture, and local flavors.
This itinerary will immerse you in the atmosphere of Baiso, combining outdoor activities, cultural discovery, and moments of relaxation—all in the spirit of Cittaslow, which defines this charming destination.
The Accomodations
