Monte Aquilone and Eremo di Sant'Alberico Loop from Balze

The estimated hiking time for the From Balze to Faggio Scritto via Monte Aquilone (Trail 125) is approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes. This duration is for the full 8.56-kilometer route.

Autumn is particularly stunning for this trail, especially for the panoramic views from Monte Aquilone. The diverse natural landscapes with beech and maple trees offer beautiful fall colors. However, the trail is enjoyable in other seasons too, weather permitting.

The trail winds through diverse natural landscapes, including unspoiled woods with beech and maple trees, and open pastures. You will encounter varying terrain, including sections that cross streams. The path to Monte Aquilone involves an ascent.

Komoot rates this trail as 'moderate'. While the paths are generally accessible, a good level of fitness is recommended due to the duration and elevation changes (around 360 meters gain/loss). It might be challenging for absolute beginners or very young children, but experienced families could manage it.

You'll encounter several notable features. Highlights include the breathtaking Monte Aquilone Panoramic Viewpoint and the summit of Monte Aquilone itself. The route also passes by the ancient Hermitage of Saint Alberico, where medieval monks carved cells into the rock, and the Balze Democratic Memorial to the Fallen Partisans (1940–1945).

Yes, this trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near other hikers, and to follow local regulations regarding pets in natural parks or protected areas.

The trail starts from Balze. While specific parking details aren't provided, Balze is a common starting point for hikes in the area, so you should find parking facilities there. It's advisable to check local maps or community information for the most convenient parking spots near the trailhead.

No, typically you do not need special permits or have to pay entrance fees to hike the From Balze to Faggio Scritto via Monte Aquilone (Trail 125). It's a public trail maintained by the Club Alpino Italiano (CAI) in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines.

Yes, this route intersects with several other well-known paths. Significant portions of the trail overlap with the Alta Via dei Parchi MTB - Tappa 26, Alta Via dei Parchi: Tappa 26, Grande Circuito della Romagna: Tappa 10, Cammino di San Francesco da Rimini a La Verna - MTB: Tappa 4, Cammino di San Francesco da Rimini a La Verna: Tappa 4, and Cammino di San Vicinio: Tappa 9.

Given the 'moderate' difficulty and varying terrain, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate clothing layers for changing weather conditions. A map or GPS device is also useful, especially for navigating junctions like Bivio Pascale Bonnet and Due Pozzene Junction (1,248 m).