The Holy Exercise Trail

Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca. A beautiful circular sanctuary in Bologna that sits at the top of a hill that can be accessed either by road or by trekking up 3.5km of winding portico that really is a workout for the legs. But don't let that put you off because the views that greet you at the top, and at various points on your way up, are just spectacular. But if it does, just take a car to the top!

I thought that I would warn you against taking the 3.5km lightly;  I don't think there is enough emphasis in reviews of San Luca on the number of steps and the steep trail that tourists must face (hence the photo above). The fact that many residents around San Luca use the route to carry out their daily runs (and, consequently, have legs of rock) should tell all.

But equally telling is that the holy site is not without a tourist everyday of the year. Yes, they may be doubling over in pain once they reach the top, but all will say that it was worth it. The views are stunning; on one side you see nothing but the red tops of Bologna and on the other nothing but mountains for as far as the eye can see. The Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca may be a feat to reach, but no other spot will give you such perfect views of all of Bologna.

And do take a camera. You'll want photographic evidence that you did reach the top.