The fifth section of the Alta Via dei Parchi explores three distinct areas: the Casentinesi Forests National Park, the Romagna Apennines and the Romagna Riviera, which you’ll gaze over from afar at breathtaking viewpoints.

On the final section of the Alta Via, you reach the southernmost point of the route, the La Verna Sanctuary. The previous section of the Alta Via revealed the source of the Arno river, along this route, you meet the source of the Tiber river in Balze.

This Collection involves considerable ascent and descent; there are several points above 500 metres (1,600 ft) and some passages above 1,300 metres (4,300 ft). This elevation combined with some rough paths should not be underestimated.

You’ll need warm clothing in all seasons. In winter, it’s especially difficult to walk here due to heavy snowfall. During the first two stages, finding food and water isn’t easy as they pass through sparsely populated areas. I recommend bringing a large rucksack and stocking up on food and water even when it doesn’t seem strictly necessary.

Many of these trails run on rocky ground, grassy meadows and wet ground, making boots with good grip essential. Each stage ends near at least one accommodation option. As many are Apennine refuges or hostels, they may not be open all year round so be sure to book ahead. You can also wild camp in certain areas and you can find out more here shorturl.at/eEPYZ (in Italian).

If you are arriving from the previous section of the Alta Via ( komoot.com/it-it/collection/2467140), simply pick things up where you left off. Otherwise, you can reach Camaldoli via the LH3 bus line from Poppi station, which in turn can be reached thanks to the Arezzo-Stia route. The AdriaBus 45 bus line connects Carpegna to Pesaro, enabling connections to any part of Italy.

Hiking through these places is significant because in May 2023 they were hit by a devastating series of flooding and geological events: a natural disaster that caused flooding, landslides and mudslides. Helping those who live here as much as you can is a great gesture. I advise you to check for any road closures here mobilita.regione.emilia-romagna.it (in Italian) and to be careful.

Enjoy the Alta Via dei Parchi.