The jumps by the devil

Do you want to know more about the medieval legend of the jumps by the devil or 'I salti del diavolo'? You can discover this legend by hiking a part of the Stonecutters Route or 'Via degli scalpellini'.

The legend says that these rock formations are the footprints left by the devil when he jumped away after seeing a crucifix of a hermit who lived in this valley. In reality, this geological phenomenon was formed 80 million years ago due to an earthquake under the sea. The rock formation extends for 5 km between Ravarano and Cassio. Due to erosion, the shape of the rocks has been changed over time.

You can start the hike from 2 different sides. Either leave near Berceto, from the hamlet of Cassio, or leave near Ravarano (Calestano), in the hamlet of Chiastre.

From Cassio you have a beautiful view on the ridge of the rock formations.

From Chiastre you have more and different views on the valley.

Until 2014 it was possible to walk throughout the year from Cassio to Chiastre. The connection between these two sides of the valley was guaranteed by a pedestrian bridge over the river Baganza, but unfortunately, this bridge was completely destroyed in October 2014 due to a flashflood. Nowadays, you can only cross the river in summer when there is no or little water in the river.

Taking these considerations into account, it is up to you to choose the starting point of your hike.

Link to map

We started the hike in Chiastre and we didn't regret this choice. The route to Chiastre by car is worthwhile. Along the road you can see that a lot of 'frane' or landslides have taken place in this region. Such a landslide often take place after a period of heavy rain and can cause considerable damage. In 2013 and 2014 there have been several major landslides in this region. You forget about this damage looking at the beautiful meandering Baganza in the canyon.

We hiked during Easter holidays. At that time it was not possible to cross the river because the flow of the river was too strong.

We chose to hike the green trail which can be combined perfectly with the lila trail (see map). However, with young children, the green trail was enough for 1 day. According to Italian standards, the trail is well signposted. The hike is not difficult at all.

Actually, we walked a large loop with a limited number of altimeters.

On the trail you will find several information boards with some explanation about the geological phenomenon and the figures - shark and penguin - that you can discover in the rock formations.

Down by the river there is a picnic area. The perfect place for a picnic near the edge of the river. In the summer you can also cool down in the river. During Easter, the water was brown because of the melting snow, mud and rocks coming out of the mountains but during summer the water is crystal clear. The waterfall that you should be able to see according to the information boards is no longer there. Discover why!

Want to know more about 'la via degli scalpellini' or the Stonecutters Route?

Trail: CAI771

The route connects the 2 sides of the Baganza valley and was used by stonecutters until the end of the 1950s. In memorian of these stonecutters, the trail was restored. Near Cassio, the trail joins the pilgrimage route Via Francigena, which has recently elected as on of the 10 most beautiful pilgrimage routes in the world.

Some practical information

Distance from Parma: 44 km

Were to Park the car?

In Cassio, opposite the ostello di Cassio (a place for pilgrims or hikers following the Via Fracingena) is a sealed hotel. Feel free to park on the parking lot of this hotel. During the weekends it is full of cars of mountain bikers and hikers.

In Chiastre you can park your car at the starting point of the hike. A little beyond the parking of the only trattoria in the hamlet, there is a small path to the right. You can park your car over there.

Distance and time?

Depends on which trails you combine. Along the road you will find signs which indicate the time you need to reach certain points.

More info: see map

Would you like to end the day with a nice entrecote on the grill?

Go to Ca dal brass. Highly recommended!