Sole cycle path with children

Following the sun symbol that marks the route, we set off in the saddle to reach the town of Crevalcore where, amidst the elegant palazzos of the historic centre, we encounter the Leo Preti Puppet Museum, described as the 'smallest museum in the world'. The museum, open on special days indicated on the site or by prior request, houses the prestigious collection of puppeteer Leo Preti, who was born and lived in Crevalcore in the early 20th century. Here, children, but also adults, will be able to admire an original period theatre, no less than 110 painted backdrops from different eras, numerous puppets, as well as costumes, small furnishings and props.

Continuing along about 9 km of cycle path you reach San Giovanni in Persiceto, famous for the very special "spillo" Carnival. You cannot miss a visit to the colourful and scenic Piazzetta Betlemme, a little corner of Persiceto where reality meets fantasy: the colourful wall paintings by film set designer Gino Pellegrini, created using the trompe l'oeil technique, fill the space, creating a harmony of colours that the artist dedicated 'to children of all ages'. Vegetables, fantastic animals, small homages to cinema and fake sheets that seem to come out of the windows create a game of cross-references that has earned this little square the nickname 'square of deceptions'.

Continuing on our route we encounter, not far from San Giovanni, the Bora Nature Area, where a protected corner of nature is home to numerous plant and animal species, especially birds.

The children will be able to visit the marsh tortoise repopulation centre where, every year, many small 'tortoises' are grown and then released.

Continuing towards Bologna, you arrive in the territory of Sala Bolognese. Here it is worth making a small diversion to Giocars, the Museum of Moving Toys. A little effort on secondary driveways, partly bordered by cycle paths, to admire the rich collection of antique toys, all characterised by the theme of movement: from toy cars to tricycles, via buggies, rocking horses and merry-go-rounds with little horses. A unique experience that leaves everyone, young and old, speechless!

We must set off again and, again making a small diversion along the route, reach Anzola dell'Emilia to end our itinerary in beauty, or even in goodness! Awaiting us is the Carpigiani Ice Cream Museum, the first museum in the world dedicated to the history and culture of Made in Italy ice cream. In addition to a visit to the museum, it is possible to take part in workshops and tastings designed especially for children, if booked in advance. A very special way to end our itinerary!