Via degli Dei

Via degli Dei is a long-distance walk across the Tuscan – Emilian Apennines, linking Bologna (Piazza Maggiore) with Florence (Piazza della Signoria) over roughly 125 km. The route follows a mix of historic tracks, forest paths and minor roads and in places it runs on well-preserved sections of the Roman Flaminia Militare (dated to 187 BC), especially around the Passo della Futa area.  Most hikers break the walk into several stages – commonly around a week, depending on itinerary – with villages and services appearing at intervals once you leave the urban edges.

• Crossing the Apennines on a historic Roman line
• Steady mix of woodland paths, ridges and rural tracks
• Villages offering food and rest along the way
• Cultural merge of Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany
• Approachable terrain with a clear sense of progression

Via degli Dei blends landscape and history in a way that feels natural. The route follows ground shaped by centuries of travel, so each climb and descent sits where movement has always made sense. Forests, farmsteads and old stone traces create a relaxed walking rhythm without losing the feeling of crossing a mountain chain. Arriving in Florence after days on quiet hills gives the journey a clean arc from countryside to city.

Start: Bologna – Piazza Maggiore, easily reached by train and bus from across Italy and major airports
Finish: Florence – Piazza della Signoria, with excellent transport links including trains to Bologna, Rome and Milan
Nearest airports: Bologna (BLQ), Florence (FLR), Pisa (PSA)

The trail crosses rolling Apennine terrain with climbs that build patiently through forest. Underfoot, the mix shifts between dirt paths, old cobbled sections, gravel roads and short asphalt links near villages. Woodland holds much of the route in shade, especially on the northern side, while ridgelines expose the walk to breezier air. Rain leaves clay-like sections slick and slow until they dry. Waymarking is generally reliable and the route is easy to follow, though a few junctions still require attention.

Water is available in villages, springs and fountains scattered along the route, though some sections on the ridges can feel dry in hot weather. Food resupply is simple thanks to towns such as Sasso Marconi, Monzuno, Madonna dei Fornelli or San Piero a Sieve. Small shops, cafés and local trattorie appear regularly, keeping pack weight low.

Accommodation ranges from small B&Bs and guesthouses to agriturismi and simple hotels. Most stages end near villages with several options, though booking helps during peak season. Wild camping is restricted and rarely used due to the density of services. Many hikers mix B&Bs and simple lodgings to keep packs lighter and logistics straightforward.

Total elevation gain is moderate, rising through a sequence of hills rather than sustained climbs. Typical days involve several shorter ascents that rarely exceed six to eight hundred metres. No acclimatization is needed and the walk feels steady as long as pacing matches the undulating terrain.

No permits are required. Local rules focus on respecting farmland, staying on marked paths and avoiding wild camping where prohibited. Fires are not allowed in forested areas during dry periods.

Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable mix of light and temperature. Early season holds fresh air under the trees and clearer views across the ridges. Summer brings warmer conditions with shaded woodland giving some relief. Autumn colors add depth to the hills and quieter paths once the peak season ends.

Lightweight footwear works well on mixed surfaces. A small pack with rain protection is enough due to frequent services. Trekking poles help on long descents when the clay soil becomes slick. Extra water capacity is useful in hot weather when fountains run low. Navigation is straightforward but a GPS device ensures clarity at junctions. A light insulating layer helps when the forest shade turns cool.

The route is accessible for most hikers with basic fitness. Difficulty comes from accumulated hills rather than technical ground. Weather can shift quickly on the ridges but rarely becomes severe. Traffic appears on a few short road sections, so attention is advised in these areas. Overall the trail remains well within easy to moderate difficulty when walked at a steady pace.