Discover Molino del Pallone on the Reno

By the river and between two provinces

The Reno flows through Molino del Pallone and divides the town into two parts: one lies in the Province of Bologna, the other in the Province of Pistoia. In the wider regional area, the Randaragna stream flows into the Reno just upstream from the town. The river is therefore an integral part of the townscape, while the surrounding mountains provide an important setting for outdoor activities.

The town’s name also points to the use of water: Molino del Pallone derives from “Molino di Ballone,” an old water-powered mill. There, dried chestnuts were processed into sweet flour. This history gives the name a specific connection to the local milling tradition and adds a historical dimension to the view of the Reno.

Hiking and wildlife watching

Molino del Pallone is the starting point for numerous hiking trails marked by the C.A.I. If you are planning a trip focused on hiking, you can use the town as a base for excursions. The marked trails and surrounding mountain landscape give your stay a clear focus on hiking, although no two routes need to be the same.

In the surrounding mountains, hikers may spot fallow deer, roe deer, red deer, badgers, foxes and wild boar. Wildlife offers another possible point of interest along the way, alongside the route itself and the landscape. If you enjoy travelling on foot, you can combine your hikes with an interest in the local wildlife.

Relaxation by the Reno

By the river is the Parco Fluviale, a recreation area used in summer for relaxation and leisure activities. It is equipped with appropriate facilities. The park offers a summer connection to the Reno, different from hiking and cycling in the mountains.

In Molino del Pallone, a hamlet of Alto Reno Terme, there is also a river beach on the Reno. The water is described as clear and suitable for swimming; the beach is 8 km from Porretta. Swimming conditions and local regulations may vary. Check the current conditions and applicable rules before swimming.

The river is also described as a place for sport fishing: an older regional sport-fishing itinerary lists the Reno from Molino del Pallone to Biagioni as a Category D waterway. Before fishing, check the current classification, as well as the applicable rules and access conditions.

Mountain biking and trip planning

Numerous mountain bike routes start in Molino del Pallone, allowing you to explore large parts of the Pistoia and Bologna Apennines. The rideable routes vary considerably in difficulty and length. When choosing a route, it is therefore worth considering both factors and selecting a trail suited to your plans. Also check route conditions before setting out.

Hiking and mountain biking offer different ways to explore the area: hiking trails focus on travelling on foot, while mountain bike routes form a separate network with widely varying lengths and difficulty levels. This distinction can help you decide what to focus on when planning your trip.

Getting there and planning your trip

Molino del Pallone is accessible by train from Bologna and Pistoia. The station is called Molino del Pallone. If you plan to travel by train, check the current timetable before setting out.

The Pro Loco and the parish of Molino del Pallone organize food festivals. If you would like to time your visit to coincide with one, check the event dates in advance.

When choosing a hotel, you can first consider whether hiking, cycling or spending time by the river will be the focus of your stay. You can also factor in other destinations, current timetables and any seasonal conditions when making detailed travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Ponte della Venturina, Castel San Pietro Terme, Funo, Varignana-Palesio, Fontana, Gaggio Montano, Pioppe, Villanova.

Back to the main travel overview: Bologna.