A Real Day on the Via degli Dei: How a Waterproof Backpack for Hiking Kept Me Moving

A Real Day on the Via degli Dei: How a Waterproof Backpack for Hiking Kept Me Moving

The day started early in Florence. We hopped on the morning train to Bologna, a little sleepy, a lot excited. By 9 a.m., we were at eXtraBO, the first official stamp point of the Via degli Dei. Passport in hand, the trail was on.

Starting with Arco del Meloncello

Our first steps took us up the long covered stairway to Arco del Meloncello, a beautiful archway that marks the true start of the trail. From here, we passed a church (the one in my photo), and before we knew it, we were stepping into the woods.
Historic Arco del Meloncello arch in Bologna, starting point of Via degli Dei

What I Packed in My Waterproof Backpack for Hiking

My gear was simple but tested. I carried a 20L waterproof backpack, compact enough to stay light, but reliable enough to protect everything when rain hit later.
Essentials inside:
  • 1.5L water bottle
  • Lightweight jacket
  • Trail passport + paper map
  • Trail snacks
  • Charger and headlamp
  • Bandana + sunscreen
I used AllTrails for navigation, but signs along the trail proved more reliable — especially at forks. At our second stamp point (a farmhouse near Sasso Marconi), the trail app showed a misleading uphill. The correct path was marked clearly downhill, and we followed that with no trouble.
Flat lay of hiking poles, shoes, and backpack for Via degli Dei trek

Trail Moments: Forest, Clarity, and a Four-Legged Friend

The trail was a mix of forest tracks, narrow paved roads, and panoramic ridgelines. There were plenty of fountains to refill water, and thankfully, the weather stayed kind — until one short drizzle made me thankful for that waterproof pack.
At one point, I walked behind a hiker with a friendly dog. They shared the trail like old friends. It reminded me why I love solo trails: you meet strangers, and the silence feels shared.

Staying in a Cozy B&B on the Trail

That night we stayed at B&B Bellatmosfera in Brento. And it truly lived up to its name — the atmosphere was bellissima.
💬 We booked via WhatsApp with Simona
🛏 Shared dorm, 10€ deposit, 65€ total including towel and taxes
🍝 Dinner: homemade pasta, local wine, warm conversations
🐶 There was even a white dog named Belle running around the garden
Dog resting on a countryside B&B patio along the Via degli Dei trail

FAQ – A Day on the Via degli Dei

How far is it from Bologna to Brento? Roughly 32km with 1,058 meters of elevation gain. Took us 7h 19min with breaks.
Is it beginner-friendly? Yes, but pace yourself. It's long but not technical.
How do you get stamps? Ask at eXtraBO in Bologna, and selected B&Bs along the route. Some need a reminder.
Is 20L really enough? For this kind of supported hike (no camping), yes. Just pack light and waterproof.
Distant view of mountain ridges and forested trail along Via degli Dei

Final Thoughts

This was just one day on the Via degli Dei, but it reminded me how powerful the right gear — like a waterproof backpack for hiking — can be.
With dry gear, a good meal, and a friendly dog to end the day, I fell asleep grateful, tired, and already excited for the next section.

🎒 Want to see the pack I used?
👉 [Explore our waterproof hiking backpack →]

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