Hotels Pianoro, Guesthouses Pianoro and Residences Pianoro

Pianoro, a small municipality of the province of Bologna, is situated halfway between the valleys of the rivers Savena and Zena. Dominated by the so-called Monte delle Formiche (Mount of Ants), it is situated just in the heart of the so-called Contrafforte pliocenico protected area, that is peppered with imposing sandstone blocks and deep ravines.

Pianoro gathers a remarkably wide array of hotels belonging to different price categories; they are the ideal accommodation facilities for those interested in visiting the city and the nearby Contrafforte pliocenico natural reserve. The local guest houses, that are situated just in the heart of enchanting landscapes, give tourists the possibility to take advantage of comfortable bedrooms, and are able to suit even their most demanding requirements. Pianoro's farm houses, that distribute amidst the sweet hills of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, give guests the possibility to enjoy genuine traditions and ancient usages and customs.

The majestic Sanctuary of St. Maria di Zena, that dates back to 1078, is situated on the top of an impressive rock spur of Mount Zena, that rises few kilometres far from Pianoro. Every year around September 8, this ancient place of worship, that is also known as Sanctuary of Monte delle Formiche (Mount of Ants), attracts large numbers of ants that reach the top of the mountain and die there. Every year, this peculiar natural phenomenon attracts large numbers of both pilgrims and curious people from all over Italy.
The beautiful Zena Castle, that was built in 1127, rises on the slopes of the mountain, a short distance from the course of the homonymous river. The building, that still retains some important defensive architectural elements, such as its towers and armoury, was heavily remodelled and restored over the course of the centuries, and has recently lost its original aspect. It is preceded by the splendid Torre dell'Erede (Heir Tower), that was probably built in the XIV century. Its outer walls are embellished by plenty of precious stone statues depicting both humans and animals.
The lovers of nature and speleology won't miss the opportunity to visit the Regional Park of Bologna's Chalk Pits and Abbadessa Ravines.