The caves can be reached via a recently signposted and cleared scenic trail, through which you can take a circular hike of about a couple of hours starting from the location "Monte Cavalloro", just above the village of Riola. About halfway along the route, you'll encounter the caves, located in an area where you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama that spans the Reno Valley to the Corno alle Scale.
The so-called "caves" are actually fissures in the rock that feature numerous and peculiar rounded cavities on the walls, called "tafoni" in geological jargon. These "holes," formed due to the erosive action of water and wind, create truly spectacular designs within the fissures. The entire system is composed of sandstone rock, originating from a geological formation dating back approximately 27 million years; its presence indicates the existence of a very deep sea in this area.
The area is considered a locally relevant Geosite by the Emilia Romagna Region and is therefore protected: it is important to maintain respectful behavior as the caves are subject to rapid (in geological terms!) degradation due to their structure. Inside the fissures, you can admire tafoni and limestone formations.
The "caves" are three: the Grotta dei Piatti, the Grotta Buia, and the Grotta di Soprasasso; the second one is the most similar to a deep tunnel
Map
Soprasasso Caves
40038 Vergato
