Monte di Stagno

Monte di Stagno is a 1,213-metre peak in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, sitting within the municipality of Camugnano in the metropolitan area of Bologna, right along the border between Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany. It rises between Monte Calvi to the south and the L'Alpe ridge to the north, forming a divide that separates the valleys of the Brasimone and Limentra di Treppio streams — the two main tributaries feeding Lake Suviana and Lake Brasimone. The mountain falls within the Suviana and Brasimone Lakes Regional Park, one of the more popular hiking destinations in the Bolognese Apennines.

How do you get to Monte di Stagno?

Most trails start from the village of Stagno, roughly 7 km from Camugnano's main town centre. Marked footpaths run from the shores of Lake Suviana and Lake Brasimone toward the base of the mountain, with a short detour from the main route leading up to the summit itself. No technical climbing skills are needed, but sturdy trekking shoes are worth packing, since some stretches cross the rocky terrain typical of this stretch of the Apennines.

What will you see along the way?

Before reaching the top, it's worth pausing in the village of Stagno itself — a 15th-century mountain settlement clustered around its church, once home to a fortified outpost. The village still shows the sandstone slab roofs, stone porticoes, and traditional doorways and windows characteristic of this part of the Apennines. The Rio Malsacco stream rises on the slopes of Monte di Stagno and flows down the western side of the mountain into Lake Suviana, one of two artificial reservoirs in the area, both ringed by popular walking and cycling routes.

What can you see from the summit?

On a clear day, the summit of Monte di Stagno opens up a wide view over the surrounding ridgelines and the broader Tuscan-Emilian Apennine chain. It's a favourite stop for hikers looking for a panoramic viewpoint without a particularly demanding climb — reaching the top is usually the final short stretch of a longer loop hike that circles past both lakes.

When should you visit?

Spring and early autumn are the best seasons for hiking here, with mild Apennine temperatures and the clearest views from the top. Summer draws more visitors to the valleys around Lake Suviana and Lake Brasimone looking to cool off by the water, which livens up the area but can also mean busier trailhead parking. In winter, snow on the higher ridges means the hike calls for proper preparation.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Monte di Stagno? The summit reaches 1,213 metres above sea level, part of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine chain on the border between Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany.

Is there more to see nearby than just the mountain? Yes — the route passes through the village of Stagno, a historic 15th-century settlement with stone roofs and porticoes, and trails also connect to Lake Suviana and Lake Brasimone.

Is the hike to the summit difficult? No, it's a relatively gentle approach suitable for hikers with average fitness, though sturdy trekking shoes are recommended for the rocky sections of the path.

Is Monte di Stagno inside a protected park? Yes, it lies within the Suviana and Brasimone Lakes Regional Park, an area known for its hiking and cycling routes around the two artificial lakes.