Novafeltria Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Novafeltria, Italy with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Novafeltria

Nestled in the Rimini province of Emilia-Romagna, Novafeltria is a small town located in the scenic Montefeltro hills of Northeast Italy. The town is steeped in history, art and stunning landscapes, and offers a perfect escape for those seeking authenticity, peace and quiet, and outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Novafeltria

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Civico - A museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Novafeltria through its archeological findings, art, and artifacts.
  • Castello di Novafeltria - A medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding hills. The castle houses exhibitions and events throughout the year.
  • Abbey of San Leo - A beautiful 11th-century monastery located in the nearby town of San Leo.

Natural Attractions of Novafeltria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monte Perticara - A popular hiking destination with a stunning view of the Montefeltro hills and the Adriatic coast. The trail is moderate and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.
  • Parco del Sasso Simone e Simoncello - A nature reserve with unspoiled wilderness and rich biodiversity. Visitors can walk through trails that lead to the top of Mount Carpegna or enjoy spectacular views of the Preappennino mountains and the Adriatic coast.
  • Gola del Furlo - A natural monument that features a breathtaking gorge and a Roman tunnel that dates back to the 2nd century.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Novafeltria

Novafeltria is an ideal destination for hiking and biking lovers. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • San Leo - Carpegna - A 60-km trail that starts in San Leo and leads to Mount Carpegna through the Montefeltro hills. The trail takes about 6-7 hours to complete.
  • Monte Nero - A moderate 3-hour hike that rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Adriatic coast and the surrounding hills.
  • Mattonaia Natural Reserve - A 4-km route that takes about 2 hours to complete and offers stunning views of the natural reserve and the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Novafeltria: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting Tour - Visit local vineyards, learn about the history of wine making in the region, and sample some of the best wines in Emilia-Romagna.
  • Cooking Class - Learn how to make traditional dishes from Emilia-Romagna using local ingredients and traditional methods.
  • Truffle Hunting - Join an expert truffle hunter and his trained dog on a truffle hunting excursion in the woods near Novafeltria.

Week-Long Itinerary for Novafeltria

Day 1: Explore Novafeltria’s historic center and visit Museo Civico.

Day 2: Go on a hiking or biking trip around Monte Nero.

Day 3: Visit the beautiful 11th-century Abbey of San Leo.

Day 4: Learn how to cook traditional dishes from Emilia-Romagna in a cooking class.

Day 5: Take a day trip to Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage site and birthplace of Raphael.

Day 6: Go truffle hunting in the woods near Novafeltria.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local food and wine scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Novafeltria

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tagliatelle alla Bolognese - A classic dish from Emilia-Romagna made with handmade pasta and meat ragu.
  • Cappelletti - Small pasta pockets filled with meat or cheese served in a light broth.
  • Piadina - A flatbread made of flour, water, and lard that’s typically filled with cheese, cured meats, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Sangiovese wine - A red wine from Emilia-Romagna with a distinct flavor and aroma.
  • Lambrusco wine - A fizzy red wine that pairs well with hearty Italian cuisine.
  • Nocino - A traditional Italian liqueur made from green walnuts.

Where to Stay in Novafeltria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Albergo Ristorante Diana - A traditional hotel with a restaurant that serves local dishes and organic wine.
  • B&B Il Casale dei Boni - A cozy guesthouse with charming rooms and beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
  • Agriturismo Ca’ Bazzano - An authentic farm-style guesthouse that offers horse-riding, cooking classes, and wine tastings.

What to Buy in Novafeltria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Truffles and truffle products - Novafeltria is known for its Truffle Festival that takes place in November, and visitors can bring home fresh truffles or truffle oil and sauces.
  • Ceramics and pottery - Unique handcrafted ceramics and pottery can be found in local shops and markets.
  • Leather goods - Italy is famous for its high-quality leather products, and Novafeltria is no exception.

Local Culture and Customs of Novafeltria

The people of Novafeltria are welcoming and friendly, and the town is steeped in history and traditions that reflect the culture of Emilia-Romagna. Novafeltria celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as the Truffle Festival in November, where locals and visitors can enjoy truffle-based dishes, wine tastings, and outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit Novafeltria

The best time to visit Novafeltria is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Novafeltria

Do:

  • Learn some Italian phrases before your visit.
  • Follow the local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and wine.

Don’t:

  • Touch artifacts or artwork in the museums.
  • Smoke in restricted areas.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Novafeltria

Novafeltria is a safe and peaceful town, but visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions, such as locking their hotel room, not leaving valuables unattended, and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Health in Novafeltria

The local tap water is safe to drink, but visitors who are sensitive to changes in water quality may prefer to drink bottled water. Medical facilities are available in Novafeltria and nearby towns, and visitors should have travel insurance that covers emergency medical treatment.

Getting to Novafeltria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Novafeltria

The nearest airports are Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, Rimini Federico Fellini Airport or Ancona-Falconara Airport, which offer domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Novafeltria

Bus services connect Novafeltria to other nearby towns and cities, including Rimini, Bologna, and Urbino.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private transfer from the airports, which provides flexibility and comfort when exploring the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Novafeltria

Novafeltria is a small town that can be easily explored on foot. Visitors can also rent a bike or a car to explore the surrounding hills and countryside.

Where to Go Next from Novafeltria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • San Marino - A small independent country within Italy that’s known for its medieval architecture and stunning panoramic views.
  • Urbino - A UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and stunning renaissance architecture.
  • Rimini - A popular beach resort city with a vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches on the Adriatic coast.

Conclusion

Novafeltria is a hidden gem in the Emilia-Romagna region, offering visitors a taste of authentic Italian culture, history, and natural beauty. From outdoor adventures and scenic hikes to culinary experiences and traditional festivals, there is something for everyone in this charming town. Plan your next trip to Novafeltria and discover the best of Italy off the beaten path.

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