Discover the Via Vandelli:
A Historic Trail for Modern Hikers

The Via Vandelli is an extraordinary journey through history and nature, retracing the path designed in the 18th century to connect Modena to the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Originally built as a business and military road for Duke Francesco III d’Este, it was engineered by Domenico Vandelli, a renowned mathematician and geographer.

The road was commissioned to establish a direct connection between Modena, the capital of the Este duchy, and the port of Massa, enabling efficient trade and military movement while avoiding routes controlled by rival states.

One of the key reasons behind the road’s construction was the political marriage between Ercole III d’Este, heir to the Duchy of Modena, and Maria Teresa Cybo-Malaspina, Duchess of Massa and Carrara. This union solidified the alliance between the Este family and the Cybo-Malaspina lineage, making a safe and direct road between their territories essential.

The Via Vandelli was conceived as both a strategic and symbolic link between the two noble houses, facilitating travel, commerce, and military presence across the challenging Apennine and Apuan Alps. Construction began in 1738 and was completed in 1751, making it the first Italian road designed specifically for wheeled vehicles.  Along the way, waystations, rest areas, traveler lodgings, and toll posts were established, supporting commerce and military logistics. The road climbed steep mountainsides and passed through strategic locations, including Montecuccolo Castle and the Tambura Pass, reaching Massa and the sea.

The route traverses some of the most iconic locations in the Apennines and Apuan Alps, including the Puianello Mud Volcanos, Montecuccolo Castle—linked to the renowned general Raimondo Montecuccoli—, Romanesca Forest, and the legendary Ponte d’Ercole. In the Tuscan side you can see the Castelnuvovo di Garfagnana fortress, the roman bridge of Pontecosi and the ghost town of Fabbriche di Carregine submerged under the Vagli lake.

Hikers will also encounter La Fabbrica, an ancient toll station, the Celtic huts, and the striking rock formation of Sasso Tignoso before reaching the village of San Pellegrino in Alpe. Further ahead, the road descends toward the marble quarries of Vagli di Sotto, crosses the Serchio River, and passes through Arnetola and the imposing Tambura Pass before reaching Massa and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The hiking route follows the research and fieldwork of Giulio Ferrari, detailed in the "Guida alla Via Vandelli" (Terre di Mezzo – 2024. In Italian). Every section has been planned to maximize safety and enjoyment, avoiding busy roads while staying close to the historical path.

Some sections of the original 18th-century road have been altered by modern infrastructure. To ensure a safe and immersive hiking experience, the trail has been adapted only where necessary. Expect stunning landscapes, ancient villages, and challenging ascents as you walk in the footsteps of history.

THE ROUTE

The full route from Modena to Massa covers approximately 170 km (or 150 km from Sassuolo), featuring steep climbs and breathtaking mountain passes.

The trail includes over 5,400 meters of elevation gain, passing through:

Passo del Lagadello (Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, 1,620m)

Passo della Tambura (Apuan Alps, 1,620m)

Whether you start at the Palazzo Ducale in Modena or Sassuolo, your journey will lead you to the Palazzo Ducale in Massa, with the Tyrrhenian Sea just a few kilometers away as the ultimate reward.

Stages of the Journey

The route is divided into seven stages: (You can freely download the gpx file for each stage)

Modena to Massa Route

• M1 Modena – Puianello 27.2km, 410D+, 10D- (download gpx M1)

• M2 Puianello - Pavullo nel Frignano 24.4km, 830D+, 595D- (download gpx M2)

• 3 Pavullo nel Frignano - La Santona 25.0km, 960D+, 475D- (download gpx 3)

• 4 La Santona - San Pellegrino in Alpe 28.8km, 895D+, 540D- (download gpx 4)

• 5 San Pellegrino in Alpe - Poggio 25.8km, 395D+, 1445D- (download gpx 5)

• 6 Poggio - Campaniletti 18.3 km, 1380D+, 390D- (download gpx 6)

• 7 Campaniletti - Massa 18.3km, 500D+, 1875D- (download gpx 7)

• From Massa to the sea 6.3km, 10D+, 70D- (download gpx)

Sassuolo to Massa Route

• 1S Sassuolo - Serramazzoni 19.9km, 895D+, 230D- (download gpx S1)

• 2S Serramazzoni - Pavullo nel Frignano 12.9km, 295D+, 405D- (download gpx S2)

• 3 Pavullo nel Frignano - La Santona 25.0km, 960D+, 475D- (download gpx 3)

• 4 La Santona - San Pellegrino in Alpe 28.8km, 895D+, 540D- (download gpx 4)

• 5 San Pellegrino in Alpe - Poggio 25.8km, 395D+, 1445D- (download gpx 5)

• 6 Poggio - Campaniletti 18.3 km, 1380D+, 390D- (download gpx 6)

• 7 Campaniletti - Massa 18.3km, 500D+, 1875D- (download gpx 7)

• From Massa to the sea 6.3km, 10D+, 70D- (download gpx)

Each stage is fully described in the "Guida alla Via Vandelli", which includes accommodation options and GPX tracks. The Sassuolo variant, designed by Vandelli in 1750, offers a slightly shorter route with a similar elevation gain.

Where to Stay

A variety of accommodation options are available, including:

B&Bs and guesthouses

Farm stays (agriturismi)

Hotels and inns

Mountain refuges and campsites

You can find ACCOMODATION AND SERVICES in the interactive map at this link  

Advance booking is essential, especially in more remote areas. The CAI Nello Conti Refuge at Campaniletti (1,442m) is a highlight of the trail, offering an unforgettable overnight stay with views of the sea.

Plan Your Hike

Before setting off, ensure you have:

The "Guida alla Via Vandelli" (Terre di Mezzo - 2024) for detailed route information.

Experience the Via Vandelli

Step into history, challenge yourself, and enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany regions. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a history enthusiast, the Via Vandelli offers a truly unique adventure.

Get a glimpse of the Via Vandelli by watching these video

For more info: infoviavandelli@gmail.com

BLOG - FACEBOOK PAGE e FACEBOOK GROUP - FLICKR - INSTAGRAM - TWITTER - PINTEREST - TIK TOK - YOUTUBE