Boschi di Carrega Regional Park: Nature, History and Walking Trails Near Parma

Location: Collecchio, Sala Baganza and Fornovo di Taro, Province of Parma, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Distance from Parma: Approximately 15 km
Established: 1982
Type: Regional natural park
Best for: Walking, hiking, cycling, wildlife watching and cultural visits

Discover the Boschi di Carrega

Just a short distance from Parma, the Boschi di Carrega Regional Park is one of the most fascinating natural areas in the province. Its landscape combines ancient woodlands, peaceful lakes, open meadows and historic ducal residences, creating an ideal destination for visitors who want to enjoy nature without travelling far from the city.

Established in 1982, it was the first regional park created in Emilia-Romagna. Today, it protects a valuable landscape between the Taro River and the Baganza stream, where natural beauty and centuries of local history come together.

A Landscape of Woods, Lakes and Wildlife

The park is characterised by oak and chestnut woods, mixed forests, wetlands and small lakes. Its varied habitats provide shelter for numerous animal species, including roe deer, which have become one of the symbols of the Boschi di Carrega.

Visitors can explore the park throughout the year, discovering spring flowers, the cool shade of the woods in summer and the changing colours of the landscape in autumn. The lakes and surrounding vegetation also make the area particularly attractive for nature photography and birdwatching.

Casino dei Boschi: A Historic Residence in the Forest

One of the park’s most important cultural landmarks is the Casino dei Boschi, a former ducal residence surrounded by a historic landscape garden.

The building was originally developed in the 18th century under Duchess Maria Amalia and was later enlarged during the reign of Marie Louise of Austria. Its architecture and gardens reflect the refined atmosphere of the former hunting estates of the Parma nobility.

The surrounding grounds, designed in the English landscape tradition, offer a remarkable combination of monumental architecture, mature trees and natural scenery.

Walking and Hiking Trails

The Boschi di Carrega offer a network of paths suitable for different interests and levels of experience. Visitors can choose short walks through the woods or connect several routes for a longer excursion.

Among the most interesting places to discover are the Lago della Svizzera, Lago della Grotta, the historic beech woodland associated with Maria Amalia and the area surrounding the Casino dei Boschi.

The park also includes accessible routes designed for visitors with reduced mobility, as well as educational trails and activities for families. Before setting out, it is advisable to consult the official trail map and check any temporary restrictions.

Cycling in the Boschi di Carrega

The park is also a rewarding destination for cycling enthusiasts. The Boschi di Carrega cycle route connects woodland landscapes, historic sites and the surrounding countryside, with opportunities to continue towards the Taro River area.

Some sections are suitable for mountain bikes, while others follow paved or unpaved roads. Cyclists should choose routes appropriate to their experience and respect the park’s regulations.

Visitor Centres and Educational Activities

The park’s visitor facilities provide information about the local environment, wildlife and cultural heritage. The R. Levati Visitor Centre, housed in a restored 19th-century farmhouse, is an important starting point for exploring the area.

From here, visitors can reach several of the park’s main attractions, including the lakes, the Casino dei Boschi and the historic beech woodland. The centre also has an outdoor picnic area and facilities used for environmental education.

Guided walks, educational activities and cultural events are organised by the park management throughout the year. Availability and schedules should be checked in advance.

How to Get to the Boschi di Carrega

The park is easily accessible from Parma by travelling towards Collecchio and Sala Baganza. The main entrances include the Conventino area near Collecchio and Case Nuove near Sala Baganza, where parking areas provide convenient access to the trail network.

For visitors arriving by car, the park is a practical destination for a half-day or full-day excursion. It can also be combined with a visit to Collecchio, Sala Baganza or the nearby food museums of the Parma area.

Useful Information

Park management: Ente di Gestione per i Parchi e la Biodiversità – Emilia Occidentale
Operational offices: Strada Olma, 2, 43038 Sala Baganza (PR), Italy
Telephone: +39 0521 836026
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Official website: Parchi del Ducato

R. Levati Visitor Centre: Via Olma, 3, 43038 Sala Baganza (PR)
Telephone: +39 0521 833440

The natural area is open to visitors, but individual visitor centres, museums and guided activities may have specific opening times. Check the official website before planning your visit.

Why Visit the Boschi di Carrega?

The Boschi di Carrega are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a relaxing day outdoors near Parma. Whether you are interested in woodland walks, wildlife, historic architecture or simply spending time surrounded by nature, the park offers an authentic experience in one of the most attractive landscapes of the Parma countryside.