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Nature and treasures of the Malatestas
...34 km route
From Riccione to San Giovanni in Marignano, called the granary of the Malatestas, passing through glorious countryside. Following the course of the River Conca, you come to Morciano di Romagna, a point of transit between the plain and the hills.
Continuing through Serra di Sotto and Serra di Sopra, along a winding scenic road, you then reach Montefiore Conca.
Continuing along the old via Pedrosa, amid oak, olive and chestnut trees, you come to Gemmano, and finally, along a breathtaking scenic road, the Onferno Caves.
Culture and nature
Riccione has always been a fashionable locality, with Viale Ceccarini, its elegant boutiques, modern bars and cafés and a beautiful equipped beach. This is one of the most 'in' spots of the entire Romagna coast.
Behind the town, towards the Conca Valley, lies peaceful countryside, only occasionally scarred by erosion furrows, with towns such as Morciano di Romagna, with its ancient trading vocation and a strategic position between the plains and fertile hills. From here the road climbs towards Montefiore Conca, formerly the old capital of the valley, one of the most authentic and best preserved towns of the Signoria in terms of landscapes and monuments, reputed to be one of 'the most beautiful villages in Italy'. |
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Its restored fortress, the Malatesta Fortress, dominates the valley and the whole of the old-town centre with its narrow streets and artisan workshops.
Gemmano is a must for anyone wanting to enjoy the pristine natural surroundings of the Rimini hills with breathtaking scenery, including the Onferno Nature Reserve and its caves, a karst system of considerable importance, first explored by Quartina in 1916. A small underground river has sculpted these limestone rocks creating tunnels, rooms and recesses in the ground stretching for 750 metres. The caves are home to numerous bats.
Food festivals
Ever since the Middle-Ages, the ancient Fair of San Gregorio has been held at Morciano di Romagna in mid March. This includes an animal market with horses, cows, sheeps and farmyard animals and an exhibition of crafts and industrial/farm products.
In mid-August, Gemmano stages the Sagra delle pappardelle al cinghiale (Festival of wild boar pappardelle) and offers visitors gastronomic specialities. Every Sunday in October, the Chestnut Festival is held at Montefiore Conca.
Markets
Riccione Friday
Morciano di Romagna Thursday |
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