Discover Varano De' Melegari

Varano De' Melegari combines medieval buildings, trails through the hills around the Ceno and a distinctive race circuit. This makes the town suitable for planning a trip that brings together culture, outdoor activities and varied day-trip destinations. If you are looking for a holiday apartment, you can first decide whether to focus on historic sights, walks and cycling tours, or on travelling to the different experiences.

Medieval heritage around Castello Pallavicino

Castello Pallavicino is an outstanding example of medieval military architecture. It stands on a sandstone cliff in a strategic position overlooking the Ceno Valley. The name Rocca Pallavicino is also used for the complex; it was first mentioned in 1087 in the Cronaca Pallavicina. This gives culturally interested travellers several perspectives on the same place: its architectural form, its position on the cliff and its recorded history.

The Chiesa del castello belongs to the castle complex. The chapel dates back to the 13th century; its original structure is now integrated into the castle's keep. The Antica prigione, a hexagonal tower that served as a prison and stands beside the road on the southeastern side of the Rocca, is also part of the historic surroundings. In Varano De' Melegari itself, the Chiesa di San Martino is another sight.

Excursions to historic buildings in the surrounding area

Destinations for a culture-focused part of the day can also be found outside the town. Near Varano De' Melegari is the Baptistery of Serravalle, an octagonal Romanesque building dating from the 9th century. The Pieve di San Lorenzo in Serravalle is located in the same area. The first records of it date from 1005; it is one of the oldest parish churches in the Province of Parma.

Another detail of the region's architectural heritage can be seen at Casa Valenti in Viazzano. There, a sandstone portal has a shallow round arch. Individual features like these give your travel planning a clear thematic direction if you want to connect not just one building but various historic forms.

Trails, viewpoints and day planning

The hills around the Ceno can be explored on walks, cycling tours, mountain-bike and e-bike rides, as well as panoramic routes. One specific trail option leads to Big Bench #BB403: the footpath begins behind the cemetery of Varano De' Melegari, runs towards Castagnola and then climbs along an unpaved road. Take this route into account when planning your day and choose the appropriate activity according to your own interests.

For a multigenerational trip, it may make sense not to plan cultural destinations and active sections all on the same day. A day featuring buildings such as Castello Pallavicino, the Chiesa del castello or the destinations in Serravalle has a different focus from a tour along trails and panoramic routes. Choosing a holiday apartment in Varano De' Melegari may therefore depend on which combination of discovery, activity and independent day planning you prefer.

Race circuit and arrival

A special addition to the cultural and scenic attractions is the Autodromo di Varano de’ Melegari. The race circuit is 2,350 metres long in its racing configuration and is homologated by the FIA, CSAI and FMI. It is therefore one of the town's clearly identifiable destinations, without replacing the character of its historic and scenic experiences.

For travelling by car, the A15 Parma–La Spezia is the main connection. At the Fornovo di Taro exit, follow the road through the Val Ceno to Varano De' Melegari. The most convenient railway station is Fornovo di Taro on the Parma–La Spezia line; from there, local connections run towards Varano De' Melegari. This information helps you coordinate your search for accommodation with your preferred means of arrival and your planned excursions.

More places for travel planning

If you would like to compare other destinations besides Varano De' Melegari, you can find the corresponding places here: Fontanelle, Pieveottoville, Sala Baganza, Zibello, Torrile, Ozzano Taro, Parma and Berceto.

Back to the higher-level travel overview: Parma.