The Reggio Apennines, with their unspoilt landscapes and enchanting atmosphere, are a true paradise for photography enthusiasts. Between deep valleys, panoramic ridges and villages suspended in time, every glimpse offers the opportunity to capture authentic and exciting images. The landscape changes with the passing of the seasons, offering an infinite variety of colours and impressions: from the delicate shades of spring to the warm tones of autumn and the whiteness of winter. Whether you are an expert photographer or simply an enthusiast, the Reggio Apennines will surprise you with their beauty, ready to be transformed into indelible memories through the lens of your camera.
Here are four unmissable places to capture on camera.
Carpineti Castle
Perched on the summit of Mount Antognano, Carpineti Castle is one of the manors belonging to the powerful domain of Matilda of Canossa. The exact date of its construction is unknown, but what is certain is that in 1077 Pope Gregory VII took refuge there to defend himself from Henry IV. Although today it is reduced to ruins, it is still very impressive. It is surrounded by an outer wall, on the west side of which traces of the ancient embrasures and protruding structures that formed the defensive system can be seen. Inside, the isolated tower stands out, very well preserved. From the castle, especially when climbing the keep, it is possible to enjoy a priceless view.
Bismantova Stone
The Bismantova Stone is one of the most iconic and recognisable symbols of the Reggio Apennines. It is impossible not to visit it… and not to photograph it! Its ship-shaped silhouette (1 km long, 240 metres wide and 300 metres high above the surrounding plain) can be seen from anywhere on the ridge. It is a massif of biocalcarenite, a sedimentary rock formed about 19 million years ago on the seabed of an ancient warm and shallow sea. Over time, it has amazed travellers and has even been celebrated by poets (Dante mentioned it in verses 26 and 27 of Canto IV of Purgatory). Every angle offers a memorable photo opportunity, whether at the foot of the rock with its steep walls or from the summit plateau, where the view stretches from the peaks of the ridge to the Po Valley.
Lake Calamone
Lake Calamone is one of the most fascinating and visited places in the Reggio Apennines. Surrounded by dense beech woods, it is located on the north-western slope of Mount Ventasso, near Ramiseto. Ancient beliefs held that it had no bottom and was connected to the depths of the sea. The truth emerged in 1762 thanks to Lazzaro Spallanzani, who measured its depth with a plumb line. The lake is a popular tourist destination all year round: during the cold months it is a ski resort, in the intermediate seasons it is ideal for filling up on oxygen, and in the summer months it offers a pleasant refuge from the heat of the cities. With its small island featuring a statue of the Madonna and the woods reflected in its waters, it is a classic destination for photography enthusiasts.
Scalucchia Pass
The Scalucchia Pass is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Reggio Apennines. Located on the northern slopes of Alpe di Succiso, not far from the village of Valbona, it separates the Secchia Valley from the Upper Enza Valley. It has always been a crossing point and meeting place between territories, and today it is very popular with hikers, cyclists and nature lovers. The landscape changes with the seasons: flowers colour the meadows in spring, the beech woods shine in autumn and cows enliven the summer pastures, offering perfect photo opportunities, while in winter the snow creates picture-postcard scenery. A few kilometres from the pass is bench number 251 of the international Big Bench Community Project circuit, from which you can admire a beautiful view.
AGRITURISMO IL BRUGNOLO
Welcome to il Brugnolo
If you’re looking for completely independent apartments surrounded by greenery you really are in the right place here!
In fact, Brugnolo is immersed in the green nature of the Emilian countryside. For your relaxation, for that of your children, and again for the runs of your 4-legged friends, you will have 6000 square meters of park at your disposal!
