Small Cassia

The trail stretches for about 170 km from Nonantola to Pistoia, crossing Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany. In Emilia-Romagna, the route covers about 113 km.From the Abbey of Nonantola, it reaches Valsamoggia, Tolè, Rocca Corneta, and Capanno Tassoni—the highest point of the route on the Tuscan-Emilian ridge—before descending toward Cutigliano, Pontepetri, and Pistoia, home to the relics of St. James.

Along the route, a variety of landscapes unfold: from the Roman-era centuriated plain to the hills dotted with badlands and vineyards, to the chestnut and beech forests, the high-altitude meadows, and the panoramic views of the Apennine ridge. Villages, Romanesque parish churches, and medieval landmarks line the path, recounting centuries of history and the back-and-forth journeys between Emilia and Tuscany.

Between Monteveglio and Cà Bortolani, the Piccola Cassia splits into two official routes: East (Badia) and West (Serravalle), both well-marked and equally rewarding for hikers. The route described in this guide follows the East (Badia) route.

Since 2022, the trail has also been extended by two connecting routes linking Bologna (via Monteveglio) and Gaggio Montano–Porretta Terme to the main route, expanding access options to the itinerary.

The route is rated E/EE in difficulty, with significant elevation changes, and is generally recommended from May through October. It is fully marked and GPS tracks are available. Along the route, there are mountain huts, farmstays, and lodging facilities that allow you to plan your trip in multiple stages.

Along its route, the Piccola Cassia connects to the Via Romea Nonantolana and the Via Romea Strata Nonantolana-Longobarda near Nonantola, becoming part of the network of major Apennine trails.

The Piccola Cassia is part of the Emilia-Romagna Pilgrimage Routes and Trails circuit.