Fiumalbo​

Latest page update: 26 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The town of Fiumalbo is situated within the Province of Modena and has a population of around 1,200 residents.

It stands at an elevation of 935 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include the towns of Vignola, Bologna, Modena and Imola. 

What People Ask About Fiumalbo

Is Fiumalbo worth visiting?
Yes, Fiumalbo is a well-preserved mountain village in the Apennines, recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. It is known for its alpine setting, stone houses, and traditional character.
What can you do in Fiumalbo?
You can walk through the historic centre, visit the Church of San Bartolomeo, and explore the surrounding trails. In winter, it’s also close to the Abetone ski area for skiing and snowboarding.
How do you get to Fiumalbo?
Fiumalbo is about 80 km from Modena and is best reached by car. The nearest train stations are in Modena and Pistoia, followed by road travel through the mountains.
What is Fiumalbo known for?
It is known for its stone architecture, alpine traditions, and location near the Apennine passes. It is officially listed among the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” and offers access to both nature and skiing.
When is the best time to visit Fiumalbo?
Summer is ideal for walking and mountain activities, while winter attracts visitors for skiing. Autumn is also popular for foliage and quieter village visits.
Related links

Discover

Discover Fiumalbo
Fiumalbo, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a small, picturesque town nestled in the Apennine Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings, Fiumalbo provides a perfect retreat for those looking to explore the mountains and enjoy a quieter pace of life. The village’s traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and serene setting make it an ideal destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and outdoor adventure.
​
Fiumalbo is famous for its historic centre, which retains much of its original charm, with buildings that reflect the town’s mountain heritage. The Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a quaint church with historical significance, adds to the cultural appeal of the village. For outdoor enthusiasts, Fiumalbo offers a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through the surrounding forests and hills, providing breathtaking views of the Apennines. The town’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty and historical landmarks, makes it an excellent base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Fiumalbo
  • Medieval Village Centre: Fiumalbo is a traditional mountain village with stone houses, cobbled streets, and narrow alleys that retain their medieval layout. The town has been officially recognised as one of Italy’s Borghi più Belli and offers a strong sense of alpine heritage in the Modenese Apennines.
  • Chiesa di San Bartolomeo Apostolo: This 13th-century church is located in the heart of the village and features a Romanesque façade with later Baroque additions. Inside are wooden statues, frescoes, and a carved pulpit that reflect centuries of religious and artistic tradition in the upper Apennines.
  • Oratorio di San Rocco and Other Chapels: Scattered throughout the village are small oratories and wayside chapels, such as the Oratorio di San Rocco, which dates back to the 16th century. These sacred sites add to the spiritual atmosphere of the town and reflect its close-knit religious history.
  • Outdoor Activities and Monte Cimone: Fiumalbo sits close to Monte Cimone, the highest peak in the northern Apennines, offering access to skiing in winter and hiking, cycling, and nature walks during warmer months. The area is also part of the Frignano Park, known for its forested trails and mountain landscapes.
  • Day Trip to Abetone: Around 15 minutes away, Abetone is a well-known ski resort just across the Tuscan border. It offers downhill ski slopes, alpine facilities, and panoramic views, making it an ideal complement to Fiumalbo for winter sports or summer excursions in the high Apennines.
Fiumalbo Tours and Activities
Comune di Fiumalbo
​​​Province: Modena

Region: Emilia Romagna

Population: 1,175​​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 39 km²

Elevation: 935 metres

Close by: Abetone, Cutigliano, Vignola, Bologna, Modena, Imola
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)

Listing headline: Il Borgo dei Celti (The Village of the Celts)

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Fiumalbo
  • Hotel Appennino Located in the historic centre of Fiumalbo, this family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms with wooden furnishings and mountain views. Guests appreciate the on-site restaurant serving traditional Tuscan-Emilian dishes, the central location, and the warm hospitality. €€ (mid-range)
  • Val Del Rio Situated in the Val di Luce area, around 10 minutes’ drive from Fiumalbo, this alpine-style hotel provides cosy rooms, a wellness centre, and ski storage. Visitors enjoy the peaceful mountain setting, proximity to the ski slopes, and scenic walking trails. €€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Bristol Ristorante Found just outside the town centre, this hotel offers functional rooms, a restaurant specialising in regional cuisine, and private parking. Guests value the hearty meals, friendly staff, and short drive to the Abetone ski area. €€ (mid-range)
  • Albergo Ristorante Il Laghetto Located a few kilometres from Fiumalbo in a quiet, forested area, this hotel features basic but comfortable rooms and a popular restaurant. Visitors enjoy the tranquil surroundings, good value, and easy access to nearby walking routes. € (budget)
  • Chalet Pineta Set in the countryside near Fiumalbo, this rustic chalet offers apartments and rooms with wood-panelled interiors and views of the Apennines. Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, garden area, and location near both ski slopes and nature trails. €€ (mid-range)

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Fiumalbo
  • Ristorante Il Laghetto: Located just outside the historic centre, Il Laghetto offers a traditional menu with a focus on mountain cuisine. Dishes include handmade pasta, wild boar, and grilled meats, served in a rustic dining room with views of the surrounding forested hills. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Osteria del Trebbo: Situated in the heart of Fiumalbo, this small osteria is known for its warm, local atmosphere and authentic Apennine flavours. Specialities include crespelle, game stews, and local cheeses, all prepared with care and served in a cosy, stone-walled interior. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante Da Roccia: Found near the entrance to the town, Da Roccia combines classic dishes with seasonal ingredients from the region. The menu features hearty pasta, mushroom-based sauces, and meat dishes such as tagliata and venison. The setting is casual and welcoming. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Trattoria da Tiziano: A short drive from the centre, this countryside trattoria serves home-style food with a focus on regional ingredients. Expect generous portions of pasta, grilled meats, and house-made desserts in a peaceful rural setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Pizzeria Il Caminetto: Located in the village, this informal pizzeria offers a selection of traditional pizzas along with a few local dishes. It’s a convenient and affordable option for families or visitors seeking a quick and satisfying meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)

Photo Gallery

Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Fiumalbo
  • Pievepelago (approx. 10 km west of Fiumalbo): A charming village nestled in the Apennine Mountains, Pievepelago is known for its picturesque landscape and traditional stone buildings. The town is a great base for outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing in the winter. The surrounding mountains and forests offer beautiful trails for nature lovers.
  • Sestola (approx. 15 km north of Fiumalbo): A popular ski resort in the winter, Sestola is a delightful town with a historic centre, narrow streets, and a medieval castle. In summer, it becomes a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the surrounding Parco del Frignano. The town offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Lizzano in Belvedere (approx. 25 km south of Fiumalbo): Located in the heart of the Parco del Corno alle Scale, Lizzano in Belvedere is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. The area is ideal for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. Visitors can explore the Corno alle Scale mountain, which offers panoramic views of the region, or enjoy the nearby lakes and forests.
  • Vignola (approx. 40 km southeast of Fiumalbo): A historic town famous for its Rocca di Vignola, a well-preserved castle dating back to the 12th century. Vignola is also known for its production of cherries, and the town hosts a famous cherry festival in June. The surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards and orchards, making it a lovely destination for a scenic drive.
  • Modena (approx. 45 km east of Fiumalbo): A city rich in history, culture, and food, Modena is home to the famous Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Museo Enzo Ferrari, dedicated to the iconic car manufacturer. The city is also renowned for its balsamic vinegar, and visitors can explore local markets and taste the region’s culinary delights.
Emilia-Romagna Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations

1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini​
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Fiumalbo
By Rail: Fiumalbo does not have its own train station. The nearest major railway stations are in Pistoia and Modena, both offering Trenitalia regional and intercity services. Pistoia is located around 60 kilometres to the south-east, while Modena lies about 75 kilometres to the north. From either station, Fiumalbo can be reached by car, taxi, or seasonal bus services, though public transport options are limited, especially outside the ski season.

By Road: Fiumalbo is situated in the Apennine Mountains near the border with Tuscany, in the province of Modena. It lies around 90 kilometres south-west of Modena and about 80 kilometres north-west of Pistoia. The drive from Modena takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via the SS12 and SP324 mountain roads. From Pistoia, the journey is similar in length and follows scenic but winding roads. Public parking is available at the entrance to the village and near the ski access areas during winter.
​
Nearest International Airports:
  • Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola): Located about 95 kilometres south-east of Fiumalbo, the drive takes around 2 hours. Public transport includes a train to Pistoia, followed by road travel.
  • Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Situated approximately 105 kilometres north-east of Fiumalbo, the drive takes around 2 hours via Modena. Train and bus combinations are possible but limited.
  • Pisa Airport (Aeroporto di Pisa Galileo Galilei): Roughly 110 kilometres south-west of Fiumalbo, the drive takes around 2 hours. Travellers can also reach Pistoia by train from Pisa and continue by road.

    Private  Transfer  Request

    WE OFFER PRIVATE TRANSFERS ACROSS THE WHOLE OF ITALY!
    To request the price and availability of any transfer route in Italy please use the form below or contact us via the [email protected] mailbox. Make sure you've included details such as the name of the hotel, name of the town/city or which airport/train station where relevant. Our English booking team will get back to you ASAP to assist with your enquiry.
To book one of our private transfers you can contact us via the [email protected] mailbox or use the Whatsapp button above for live chat and general advice about your upcoming trip to Italy. 

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via  my Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone. 
Chat with us on WhatsApp