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’s Badlands and Historic Center
• 9:00 AM – Arrival in Baiso and Check-in at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Start your Baiso experience by checking in at Agriturismo La Borgaccia, a peaceful retreat nestled in the hills of Reggio Emilia. This agriturismo, aligned with the Cittaslow philosophy, offers an authentic and relaxing atmosphere—perfect for immersing yourself in local culture.
• 10:30 AM – Hike through Baiso’s Badlands. After settling in, head out for a hike among the scenic badlands of Baiso. These unique geological formations create a stunning landscape ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The loop trail provides panoramic views and a chance to enjoy local biodiversity.
• 1:00 PM – Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant. After the hike, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant where you can taste traditional Emilian dishes made with zero-kilometer ingredients, in harmony with the Cittaslow philosophy.
• 3:00 PM – Visit to Big Bench #93. In the afternoon, visit Big Bench #93, a giant bench located in a scenic spot that offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills. Part of the Big Bench Community Project, it’s a must-see attraction for visitors to Baiso.
• 4:30 PM – Walk through Baiso’s Historic Center. Continue your day with a stroll through Baiso’s historic center, filled with character and charm. Visit the Church of San Lorenzo Martire, the town’s main parish church, which preserves significant artworks and reflects the community’s religious history.
• 6:00 PM – Return to Agriturismo La Borgaccia. After a full day of discovery, return to the agriturismo to relax and enjoy the serenity of the Reggio hills.
• 7:30 PM – Dinner at the Agriturismo. End your day with a traditional Emilian dinner made from local ingredients, prepared by the agriturismo. The family atmosphere and attention to product quality will make your dining experience unforgettable.
• Overnight at Agriturismo La Borgaccia After dinner, enjoy a restful night in this cozy accommodation surrounded by nature, perfectly reflecting the values of slowness and quality of life promoted by the Cittaslow movement.
Day 2: Nature and History Adventure
• 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Start the day with a breakfast of fresh, local products at the agriturismo, soaking in the authentic flavors of Emilia-Romagna.
• 9:00 AM – Hike along the Tresinaro Trail Loop. After breakfast, set out on the Tresinaro Trail Loop, a panoramic route connecting Baiso and Carpineti. It leads through stunning hillscapes and offers sweeping views of the Tresinaro Valley—perfect for trekking enthusiasts eager to explore the natural beauty of the Reggiano Apennines.
• 1:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant in Carpineti After the hike, arrive in Carpineti and enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant, where you'll taste Emilian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients in true Cittaslow style.
• 3:00 PM – Visit to the Castle of Carpineti. After lunch, visit Carpineti Castle, a historic fortress overlooking the Secchia Valley. This medieval castle offers insight into the region’s past and is an important local heritage site.
• 5:00 PM – Return to Baiso and Relax at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Return to Baiso for some free time to relax at the agriturismo, enjoying the calm atmosphere of the surrounding hills.
• 7:30 PM – Dinner at the Agriturismo. End your day with another traditional dinner made from zero-kilometer ingredients served by the agriturismo. The warm hospitality and culinary quality will ensure another memorable meal.
• Overnight at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Spend a peaceful night surrounded by nature in the welcoming setting of the agriturismo, continuing to experience the values of the Cittaslow lifestyle.
This second day will allow you to explore even more of the natural and historical treasures around Baiso, combining outdoor adventure with culture and local cuisine.
Day 3: Local Culture and Relaxation
• 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Agriturismo La Borgaccia. Begin the day with another hearty breakfast of fresh, local products at the agriturismo, immersing yourself in the flavors of Emilia-Romagna.
• 9:00 AM – Visit to Baiso Castle. After breakfast, head to Baiso Castle, located on a sandstone hill just north of the village. Although privately owned and not always open to the public, the exterior offers a panoramic view of the Tresinaro Valley and stands as an important historical landmark.
• 10:30 AM – Walk through the Historic Center and Visit to the Church of San Lorenzo Martire. Continue your morning with a stroll through the historic center of Baiso. Visit the Church of San Lorenzo Martire, which houses important artworks and reflects the community’s spiritual history.
• 12:00 PM – Tasting at a Local Farm. Immerse yourself in the area’s food traditions with a tasting at a local farm near Baiso. Sample artisan cheeses, cured meats, and wines—highlighting the Cittaslow commitment to local culinary heritage.
• 1:30 PM – Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant. After the tasting, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving typical Emilian dishes prepared with zero-kilometer ingredients.
• 3:30 PM – Relaxation and Recreational Activities at the Agriturismo. Return to the agriturismo for an afternoon of rest. Take advantage of common areas or join any recreational activities offered by the property, such as walks or simply enjoying the Reggio hills' scenic beauty.
• 5:00 PM – End of Stay and Departure. After a final moment of relaxation, prepare for your departure, taking with you lasting memories of an authentic experience of nature, culture, and local flavors.
This itinerary allows you to end your stay in Baiso in a relaxing and immersive way, deepening your connection with local traditions and enjoying the peaceful spirit that defines this charming destination.
The Accomodations
