For those who love active holidays and practising outdoor sports, the province of Parma offers numerous possibilities, from the Po river to the Apennine mountains, along the cycle routes in the Bassa - the low-lying plain - as well as the Great Riding Route for those who love horse-riding, the routes of the Grand Tour in the Apennines to the east of Parma for those who love mountain-biking, the trekking routes along mountain ridges, the Pilgrim’s Way - Via Francigena - and the Route of the Stone-cutters, all provide an opportunity for those who love to hike; the skiing resorts in Schia and Pratospilla delight lovers of winter sports and snow-racket excursions with snow-rackets are also available.
Those who love extreme sports can enjoy hanggliding and paragliding on Monte Caio, as well as downhill events and flights over the Parco 100 Avventure at Prato Spilla.
- BOSCHI DI CARREGA REGIONAL PARK: An ancient hunting ground for the Farnese and Borbone families, with woods and lakes, this was the first Regional Park set up by the Emilia- Romagna Regional Authorities.
- CENTO LAGHI REGIONAL PARK: Ideal for excursions to lakes formed during the Ice Age, through endless woods and meadows, in an environment not unlike the Alps.
- NATIONAL PARK IN THE TUSCAN-EMILIAN APENNINES: High mountain ridges and beech forests, the ideal habitat for wolves and golden eagles. A must for lovers of unspoilt nature.
- STIRONE RIVER REGIONAL PARK: The canyon excavated by the stream has brought to light fossils and relics from pre-history, when the ocean covered what is today the Po river valley.
- MONTE FUSO PROVINCIAL PARK Trekking routes among oaks, chestnut trees and beeches, suitable or family outings. There are itineraries for mountain-biking or horse-riding, surrounded by deer.86
- LIPU NATURAL RESERVE IN TORRILE The marshy environment has been re-created, turning this area into a birdwatcher’s paradise. Electric scooters are available free of charge for tourists with special needs.
- THE GREAT RIVER For those who would like to spend the day listening to the “voice” of the Po, going with the flow, through poplar woods and the spellbinding mist, whose every whisp defines the mood of this enchanting river. River moorings at Polesine Parmense, Torricella di Sissa, Stagno di Roccabianca and Sacca di Colorno. Bicycles are allowed aboard the motorship Rigoletto. A fun way to get to know the beauty of the Bassa Parmense - the low-lying plain - is along the bike paths. The Verdi itinerary, BiciParmaPo, Ciclotaro, the Mondo Piccolo Route and the Route of the Three castles, take tourists on bikes to the main places of interest.
