Near Castelnovo ne’ Monti, the sheer sides and flat summit of the Pietra di Bismantova rise above the surrounding hills. From Cervarezza, wooded ridges lead towards Carpineti before the road drops into the Secchia valley. After the previous day’s long climbs, descending takes up a greater share of the ride. Around Fiorano, the hills give way to the towns and industrial estates of the plain. Maranello brings the route through Ferrari’s home town, with the museum a short detour away. Beyond Spilamberto, fields and villages gradually merge into the western outskirts of Bologna. Arcades line the approach to the old centre, where the stage finishes close to Piazza Maggiore. Around 102 kilometres leave the high country behind for an evening among brick façades and covered walkways.
