Suviana on Lago di Suviana: Nature, Trails and Culture

Lakeshore between forest and water

Lago di Suviana is located in the Regional Park of the Lakes of Suviana and Brasimone. Its shores are predominantly steep and covered with stands of black pine and fir trees. As a result, forest, slopes and water together shape the character of the surrounding area. Along the shores, there are rest areas set up beneath the conifers, offering a suitable place for a break while exploring the lake.

Hiking with views of the Limentra Valley

One particularly detailed option is the “Da lago a lago” hike. It is 14.5 kilometres long, takes five hours and is classified as a moderately difficult Category E hike. The route begins on the left shore of the Suviana reservoir and follows CAI Trail 155 along the lake.

As it continues, “Da lago a lago” reaches Monte di Stagno. From there, it offers views across the Limentra Valley and Lago di Suviana below. In addition, a marked CAI trail allows visitors to complete a circuit around Lago di Suviana. This means that a longer mountain hike and a route around the lake can be considered as different focuses when planning.

Water sports despite strict bathing regulations

Despite strict bathing regulations, Lago di Suviana is suitable for windsurfing, sailing and canoeing. This combination also makes the lake interesting for travellers who want to experience a landscape from more than just the shore or a hiking trail. The water activities exist alongside the bathing regulations and should not be equated with unrestricted opportunities for swimming.

Dam, hydroelectric power station and church

The Suviana dam is 91.5 metres high. Construction began on 15 October 1928; the hydroelectric power station at the foot of the dam was completed in September 1932. Those interested in the technical development of the lakeside landscape will find a specific historical connection here between the structure and hydroelectric power.

The Chiesa dei Santi Giusto e Clemente di Suviana is also one of the area’s notable cultural landmarks. The church stands on a mountain ridge and overlooks the valley and the reservoir with its dam.

Water as a habitat

The Laboratorio delle Acque is located at Via Tramonti 22 in Località Suviana. It focuses on water as a habitat and its biological and ecological relationships.

Getting there and further orientation

From Bologna, the protected area can be reached via State Road 64 Porrettana through the Reno Valley as far as Riola. From there, Provincial Road 23 leads towards Castel di Casio and Camugnano; then follow the signs to Suviana. The two reservoirs can be reached by public transport from Castiglione and Porretta.

Other places: Monterenzio, Quarto Inferiore, Molinella, I Casoni, Madonna dei Fornelli, Valsamoggia, Castello D'argile and Budrio.

To the overarching travel overview: Bologna.