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Landscape & National Parks
The National and Regional parks represent the "green heart" of Emilia Romagna and testify to the importance attributed to the protection and promotion of the natural beauty and landscapes of the region. The Casentinesi Woods, the Gigante National Park , the Park of the Corno alle Scale and the Delta of the River Po are the principal green oasis within the region, offering its visitors all the peace and tranquillity one could desire.

Environment
Emilia Romagna (which may also be spelt Romana) has a clearly defined seasonal cycle, bringing vibrant changes to the panoramic landscape.  The green summer leaves of the mainly deciduous forests turn a spectacular russet and gold in the autumn.  In winter, snow blankets and covers the year-round foliage of the dark-green evergreens.  This is an evocative landscape, home to a rich diversity of plants and wildlife, with almost a thousand different species of flora flourishing in the parks.  Lilies and orchids thrive in the abundant woodlands and the numbers of wild deer (red, roe and the more common fallow) and boar have all increased markedly.

History & Culture
Following unification in 1946, the regions of Emilia and Romagna joined together to form one of Italy 's wealthiest regions in terms of art, history and culture. The region's most notable cities are Bologna, Parma, Piacenza, Modena, Reggio Emilia, Rimini, Ravenna, Ferrara and the smaller town of Busseto and each has something special to offer. The cultural centre of the region is Bologna ; hometown of the oldest university in Europe and a visit to Bologna will quickly entice one to explore the ornate churches, medieval piazzas, immense towers and porticos that elegantly shelter and shade one's way through the winding streets of this historic city. The region is also renowned for its beautiful Byzantine mosaics and historic paintings.

Recreation in Emilia Romagna
The region is famous for its wide variety of recreational activities, having no less than sixteen premier golf courses, extensive facilities for canoeing enthusiasts, many hot water spas for those who wish soothing relaxation and the world renowned astronomical observatory at Febbio.  Of course, this is all in addition to 50 km of wonderful golden beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Adriatic Coast.

      The Apennines
The mid-line of the Apennine Mountain Range marks the border between Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany regions and situated in the middle of the range is the renowned ‘Bismantova’, a magnificent sandstone plateau. It’s very structure, both awesome and mysterious, is a breathtaking and awe-inspiring symbol of the whole region.

The Municipalities
There are thirteen municipalities, all of which are situated in the three main valleys which have been created by the rivers Secchia, Enza and Dolo. More information on the Italian municipalities of Emilia Romagna.

Sports Activities
The Apennines are famous for all-year round sporting activities, with an activity to suit all.  For hikers and walkers there are spectacular trails and paths to explore, with a gastronomic bonus of hunting for chestnuts and mushrooms.  Every year a growing number of cyclists, from all over Europe, visit Emilia-Romagna to enjoy the pleasures of cycling through valleys and hills or, for the more adventurous, along the ridge of the Apennines , with its breath-taking scenery.  For mountaineers and rock climbers, the area is fast becoming a favourite, with the Pietra di Bismantova (Bismantova Stone) offering a challenge that few can resist.  During the winter the area’s snow-clad mountains with their world class ski slopes and resorts are a must for those whose passion is skiing, with the area hosting and contributing to the successes of top skiers and champions, such as the world champion Alberto Tomba.

Cuisine
Emilia-Romagna is undeniably the region where Italy 's best food is produced. The local specialties, famous throughout the world, include Parmesan cheese, Parma ham, Lasagne, Balsamic Vinegar and Tortellini (small pasta bites stuffed with meat, cheese, vegetables and herbs).  Of the wines, Lambrusco is the most renowned.  Produced from the grapes grown in the local vineyards, both red and white, Lambrusco is slightly ‘frizzante’, wonderfully aromatic and a marvellous adjunct to the local foods.  In autumn, it is a common practice to pick the local wild Porcini mushrooms, blackberries and blueberries, all of which can be readily found growing on the foothills of the mountains.  The region is especially famous for its chestnuts and walnuts, with large annual festivals held to mark their significance to the area.  The mountain streams have an abundance of fish and the wild mountain trout has a texture and flavour un-equalled anywhere.  The local markets and shops provide ready outlets for the locally grown, truly organic natural produce.  For a special evening or a lazy lunch-time, the area has a multitude of world-class restaurants and trattorias where the warmest of welcomes await the diner.

      Towns & Villages
The area of Emilia Romagna boasts some of the most beautiful towns in Italy , all of which are overflowing with Byzantine art and architecture. Outside the towns, the tranquil landscape is enlivened by small villages with their traditional popular customs celebrating the different seasons with festivals and feasts. The excellent infrastructure means that you are never more than an hour from Bologna , Ravenna , Modena , Parma or the sandy beaches of the Adriactic coast. It is a region which has something for everybody.

Camping

Camping in the Apennines is a truly unique experience.  Set in an environment that is completely unpolluted, most camp-sites are to be found in and around the centre of the Gigante National Park .  All around you, you will see a wide variety of hardwoods, mostly Beech and Chestnut, set in woods that have been growing unspoilt as nature intended for hundreds of years.  Wild fruits and berries are prolific and available for picking.  Lush, juicy blackberries, tart blueberries, wild sweet strawberries and even the local delicacy Porcini mushrooms can be found.  Overhead, the blue sky heralds yet another hot, dry and sunny day and as you sit out, sipping your coffee; you are spoilt for choices and things to do, Cycling? Hiking? Swimming? Visiting places of interest? Shopping in the local markets?  There are even, for the more adventurous, six world class ski resorts all inside the Park.

Soon, you will begin to think of excuses, so that you can postpone, for yet another couple of days, your return to work!