Mountains: areas and excursions

The Way of St. Thomas, which takes you from Rome to Ortona across the Apennines, cuts the peninsula in two while taking in an exceptional amount of heritage, landscapes, environments, two national parks (Gran Sasso and Maiella) and four regional parks: the Appian Way, Castelli Romani, Monti Simbruini and Sirente-Velino. The inspiration is the pilgrimage that St. Bridget of Sweden, co-patroness of Europe, made between 1365 and 1368 from the Basilica of St. Peter to the Cathedral of Ortona, which houses the relics of St. Thomas. The modern route revives this thousand-year-old tradition and is the result of the initiative of a group of young Ortonians, hiking enthusiasts, who in 2013 drew up this splendid "experiential" itinerary in order to promote their land. The 316-kilometre journey is organised into 16 stages, one per day: the average lengths vary from 25 kilometres (the flattest) to about 15 kilometres where the terrain is more challenging. On the Lazio side of the Simbruini mountains, you can reach the summit of the Way, on the 1855m Monte Autore, but the Abruzzo hinterland also offers challenging climbs and descents. For this reason, the Way of St. Thomas requires a degree of training and practice. In return, you have the opportunity to explore areas of unspoilt beauty rarely visited by tourists, like some of the villages affected by the 2009 earthquake, such as Fontecchio and Capestrano, now back to their former beauty. Among the stages linked to spirituality and Christianity, along the St. Thomas Way you can visit, in addition to numerous shrines, renowned places such as Castel Gandolfo, Albano Laziale and the admirable Subiaco, as well as lesser-known destinations, such as the Abbey of San Liberatore in Maiella, surrounded by greenery around Manoppello, or the Oratory of Saint Pellegrino in Bominaco, known as "the Sistine Chapel of Abruzzo". From a naturalistic point of view, the Camino will not disappoint you: in fact, it contains numerous surprises, including views from the Pagliare di Tione and the fairytale springs of the Lavino stream. Some locations, such as Subiaco, Rocca di Mezzo, Tagliacozzo, and Manoppello, which are well-served by public transport, can be used as a starting and finishing point for those who wish to complete only part of the route. The entire route is flanked by facilities dedicated to hospitality.

Seven thousand hectares at an altitude ranging from 250 to 3841 metres above sea level. This is the area of the Monviso Park, populated by conifers and birches and crossed by the Po River. The journey we are proposing is to discover the mountain section of the Great River, included in the Cuneo area. An enchanting itinerary, full of different panoramas that will remain etched in your eyes and hearts.

This is a long route: 92 m to cover in 6 days, along the banks of the Tanagro, a river that flows gently at first but then swells to receive inflows from other streams, becoming an ideal habitat for many colonies of native birds and fish. Following the course of the Tanagro, you'll cross the diverse landscape of the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park and stumble upon the ruins of ancient temples, mills and villages. Passing below Roman bridges and swelled by the water from underground rock cavities, the Tanagro finally plunges into the Sele, ending its journey in the sea.

It is rare to see so much natural variety all concentrated in a single region. This is the Gargano, known as the 2spur of Italy" for its unusual position that it looks like a strip of land carried by the wind from who knows what distant shores. Here, every exploration is enhanced by a panorama of rugged coastlines, white cliffs, an emerald sea, pine forests with an infinite variety of habitats and also mystical and spiritual places. Compared to the southern coast, the northern part of Gargano is wilder and less flashy. Here, outside the period from June to September, you will find peace and tranquillity. Dunes and fine sand stretch as far as the eye can see, and the beauty of the natural environment is captivating, whether seen from the beach or from the heights of the perched villages, perhaps quenching your thirst with a Gargano IGP lemonade. There is not much else you could need, but nevertheless the Gargano, a region protected by the Gargano National Park, is also a paradise for nature lovers, explorers, birdwatchers with binoculars around their necks and sports enthusiasts. Cyclists, in particular, will rejoice because cycling is the best way to breathe in the essence of the place, with deserted coves, secluded views, lonely and silent places, and small villages to be discovered pedal after pedal. There are several possible routes of varying difficulty, here we propose a route from Peschici to Lake Lesina. You reach Rodi Garganico, follow the long straight road that skirts Lake Varano, and passing from Foce di Varano, once a fishing village and now a lively tourist port, you arrive at Foce di Capoiale, a characteristic canal port where you can enjoy the view of the lake with the mountains in the background and observe the life of fishermen and the casting of nets. If you wish, you can take a variant that goes all the way around Lake Varano, otherwise you continue straight on to Lake Lesina.

The Via di Francesco touches the places that were witnesses to the human adventure of Francis of Assisi, saint and patron of Italy. Monasteries, basilicas, hermitages: each of these places has a place in the Franciscan story. On the paths of the Via di Francesco you find walkers from all over the world and the atmosphere that prevails always evokes a mystical and religious sense of movement. In its entirety, the Route is just under 500 kilometres long and runs from the cliff of the Shrine of La Verna – not far from Sansepolcro, in the heart of the Tuscan Apennines – to Gubbio and Assisi, and then continue through the hills of Umbria towards Rome. We walk on the Via del Nord, which connects Chiusi della Verna to Assisi. An evocative route, 189 kilometres long, a distance that can be covered in ten stages and about 70 hours, passing through Chiusi della Verna, Pieve Santo Stefano, Sansepolcro, Citerna Monterchi, Città di Castello, Pietralunga, Gubbio, Valfabbrica, Perugia, Bastia Umbra and Assisi. You sleep in simple and minimalist hostels, or in the hermitages where Francis was also welcomed, the refreshments are welcoming and stage after stage, even for those who do not set out adhering to the spirit of "pilgrimage", you feel an intense spirituality that connects you deeply with nature and with yourself.

For lovers of walking and cycling excursions we propose an exciting itinerary to discover the National Park of the Casentino Forests, Monte Falterona and Campigna. A route in 4 stages in one of the most beautiful protected areas of Italy, between Romagna and Tuscany. Secular forests, shrines and waterfalls will surprise you, as will the variety of landscapes you'll encounter. A paradise for trekking!

An ideal territory for cyclists, who between one ride and another can refresh themselves between crescentines with the "cunza", borlengo and a glass of Lambrusco.

If you know by heart the unforgettable exploits of cycling champion Marco Pantani, you've probably already heard of Campo Imperatore. Just in Abruzzo, “il Pirata” flew in 1999 towards the first of his four stage victories of that Giro d 'Italia. Campo Imperatore is mainly known for its ski area, among the best known and equipped in central Italy. The town of Abruzzo is today a point of reference also for bicycle tourists. In addition to having cable cars, chairlifts and cranks, in fact, Campo Imperatore has a long tradition as a stage venue for the main cycling stage races, which have always attracted a festive crowd of cycling enthusiasts and which still today, in spring and summer, welcomes a constant flow of cyclists and bikepackers, arriving from Italy and abroad.

In the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will find a perfect new dimension in uncontaminated territory where you can cycle on routes covering over 400 kilometres. Would you like to learn more about the opportunity? We’ll provide you with a few details. Given your particular interest, an ideal location would be Paganella, where the local bike park offers access to a series of routes winding across a spectacular mountain range, with downhill, free-ride and ‘flow’ trails, and also single-track zones. Tracks of various grades for all levels and types of biking activities.

Practised on a roller board of various sizes, skateboarding is not just an extreme sporting activity, but a real lifestyle. It makes use of benches, steps and handrails, as well as specially designed spaces such as skateparks. Rome, between one archaeological site and another, is home to numerous spots, but two locations deserve special attention: the Bunker Skatepark and The Spot Skatepark Ostia. Let's find out together.

Rocky coastline overlooking the sea paths that wind between the Mediterranean scrub, cliffs overlooking the beaches with vibrant colors and crystal clear waters: Sardinia with its wild interior and spectacular views has long been known as one of the most fascinating destinations for lovers of climbing. Thanks to its mild climate, the island offers the possibility to climb throughout the year and, as of late spring, a vacation that combines relaxation on the beach with sports. Cala Gonone in the province of Nuoro, Jerzu in the province of Ogliastra, Isili in the province of Cagliari, Supramonte in the central-eastern area, and Iglesiente in the southwest of the island, are just some of the places not to miss if you want to explore Sardinia’s walls of rock. Climbable walls are present, however, all over the island and recently areas such as Sassari and Alghero are becoming popular. These courses tend to be well-equipped and periodically checked. They were initially discovered and evaluated by Sardinian and European outdoorsmen, and are now beloved throughout Europe.

It is the trendiest discipline of the moment: and what city better than the cool, international city of Milan can offer suitable spaces for parkour, the adrenaline-fuelled urban sport of acrobatics, jumping, climbing and vaulting between ramps, walls, bars and railings? No other, in fact. So, enthusiasts, experts and all those aspiring, take note.

Skiing and hiking in Abruzzo Just two kilometres from the centre of Ovindoli, you can experience sport and adrenaline-filled adventures in one of the most beautiful natural settings in the whole of Abruzzo. Mount Magnola is a paradise for winter sports lovers. Beautiful in all seasons, it is at its best when its slopes are covered with snow. Due to its north-facing location, the Ovindoli-Monte Magnola ski resort allows skiing from December to May, ideal for those who have no plans to take the skis off even with the arrival of spring. The 11 ski lifts will take you to 21 slopes of varying difficulty levels, covering about 30 kilometres at an altitude ranging from 1,450 to 2,220 metres. On the Dolce Vita and Topolino slopes you can also ski under the stars, for a magical experience that you will not easily forget. If you prefer other types of winter sports, Mount Magnola is for you: here you can also enjoy snowboarding, snowkiting, nordic walking, and much more. Head to one of the many mountain huts, which you will find both at altitude and in the valleys, to spend the night on the slopes and try the local delicacies.

From the Resia artificial basin, one can ascend eastwards through the picturesque Vallelunga, at the end of which lies this hut, which could be described as a high mountain resort, such is the quality of its accommodation and culinary offer. Its 2,267 metres of altitude can also be reached by a pre-booked shuttle service. Here, regional products and typical recipes can be tasted; the star among the desserts is the Kaiserschmarren, a pancake with South Tyrolean flavours.

The paradise of hikers of all ages A beautiful and varied valley at the foot of two of the most beautiful mountains in the world, Pelmo and Civetta: the Val di Zoldo will conquer you at first sight thanks to its variety of landscapes, between different altitudes. Immersed in unspoiled nature and a treasure chest of ancient traditions, it is part of the National Park of the Belluno Dolomites and boasts a rich fauna composed of deer, chamois and ibex. Ideal destination for walkers of all ages and experience, it is the perfect opportunity to find yourself among walks for the whole family, more challenging excursions for those who have experience, but also simple tours between the countries inside, rich in history, art and flavors. Mount Civetta boasts, on the north side, a large vertical wall known as the "Wall of the walls", characterized by several climbing routes. Here there are plenty of easy or medium difficulty routes that lead to the top, but the most loved one will take you to Rifugio Coldai and the homonymous lake where you can relax. Mount Pelmo has two main peaks, known as Pelmo and Pelmetto. At the foot of the latter, on a rock, you can admire the footprints of some dinosaurs, a paleontological discovery of inestimable value that will excite even the smallest.

Snow-covered slopes, gourmet cuisine and aperitifs with friends are three vital ingredients for a skiing week. From traditional high-altitude refuges to designer chalets with gourmet restaurants and amazing night-life in the clubs, Trentino as ever ranks among the best choices for a relaxing and truly enjoyable mountain holiday.

The town of Alessandria del Carretto, originally known as 'Torricella', was refounded in 1633 by Prince Alessandro Pignone del Carretto. It has a record: it is the only village in Italy that bears the name and surname of its founder. It is the highest village in the Pollino National Park. In winter the bitter cold cuts the soul in two. In spring, its colours, smells and flavours make for a pleasant stay. Alessandria del Carretto endures as a rare oasis of wellbeing and tranquillity, where one can take refuge to find peace, where people can return to rediscover flavours of times gone by, where fortunately nature is still uncontaminated. Markets and festivals take place in the square, old and young people meet and plan their days in the square. It is difficult to feel lonely in Piazza del Popolo and Piazza Municipio. All it takes is a handshake, a glance to exchange a profound and respectful greeting. The people of Alessandria are very hospitable, and the most obvious example of their hospitality is shown during the 'Pita' festival held on the last Sunday in April in Spinazzeta, high up in the mountains on the border with Basilicata. During this famous festival, the Alexandrians offer tourists delicacies typical of the period and of the place. photo credit: Dott. Bruno Romanelli

The village of Valvasone retains its medieval appearance intact, consisting of pretty alleyways and old houses with porticoes. The imposing castle, which dominates the square of the same name, preserves late Gothic and Renaissance frescoes and a precious 18th-century wooden theatre. The Cathedral of the Sacred Body of Christ, which owes its name to the relic of the miracle of the Sacred Tablecloth preserved in it, houses a monumental organ, the only example in Italy of 16th-century Venetian organ-making art, embellished by the stupendous artistic framework by Pordenone and Pomponio Amalteo. The Church of Saints Peter, Paul and Anthony Abbot, once a hospice that gave shelter to pilgrims and wayfarers, preserves valuable frescoes from the 16th century. Also fascinating is the cloister of the former Servite Convent, built in the 15th century and today partly rebuilt on the ancient foundations.

Cordovado is a small jewel rich in history and valuable monuments, enriched by a splendid castle located within a medieval village, by the ancient Marian Sanctuary, a jewel of Baroque art, by an ancient parish church dating back to the 15th century, but also embellished by landscapes that harmoniously fit into a fascinating and primordial itinerary. This land was a poetic inspiration for great writers such as Ippolito Nievo and PierPaolo Pasolini. The toponym Cordovado designates a large agricultural complex (Curtis) located near the ford on an ancient branch of the Tagliamento river that the bishops of Concordia fortified in the 11th-12th centuries and chose the castle as the seat of their power. Since 2004 the Municipality of Cordovado has been one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy and since 1986 it has held a splendid Historical Re-enactment called the 'Palio dei Rioni' on the first Sunday of September.

Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club A ancient and noble history and now a dynamic and lively town: San Vito al Tagliamento stands on an area of pre-Roman and Roman settlements and still boasts valuable architectural traces of its history, such as the sections of the town wall and moat, the Raimonda, Scaramuccia and Grimana towers, and the castle. The parlour that welcomes visitors is Piazza del Popolo, very central and charming, with its porticoed sides and beautiful palaces, such as Palazzo Altan-Rota, now the town hall, in Venetian style with a beautiful Italian-style garden and a majestic park at the back, and the ancient Loggia Pubblica, former seat of the Town Hall, which now houses a splendid Antico Teatro Sociale, a small Italian-style theatre where numerous shows and events are held. A veritable art gallery of works from different eras is housed in the cathedral, next to which stands the very tall bell tower (73 metres). Also worth a visit are the church of Santa Maria dei Battuti, a masterpiece of the Friulian Renaissance with a cycle of frescoes by Amalteo and annexed to the ancient hospice, which is now a venue for exhibitions, conferences and ceremonies, and the castle, the nucleus from which the historic centre developed, embellished with frescoes both inside and outside and now housing the 'Federico De Rocco' civic museum, with a large collection of artefacts and works from various periods. The area is a production zone for excellent wines, such as Friulano and Merlot DOC Friuli Grave.

Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club Sarnano is located in the center of a beautiful valley at the foot of the Sibillini Mountains. Surrounded by the nature of the nearby mountains and forests, its territory is crisscrossed with numerous trails for walking, horseback riding, or mountain biking. The historic center, of medieval origin, which was damaged by the 2016 earthquake, has preserved the layout of a walled city with its ancient streets, stairways, and incredible views. The core of the ancient settlement is Piazza Alta; here, you can find the Church of St. Mary of the Assumption, damaged by the earthquake, with works by P. Alemanno, the Palaces of the Podestà, the Priori, and the People, the Civic Museum, and the Pinacoteca, which houses the Madonna with Child, a masterpiece by V. Crivelli. Sarnano is also famous for its thermal baths, from which highly pure oligomineral waters are extracted. Very interesting is the "Via delle cascate perdute" (Path of the Lost Waterfalls), a simple naturalistic itinerary of just over 6 km that can be traveled year-round, connecting three enchanting waterfalls near the historic center of Sarnano. Among the events not to be missed is the Palio del Serafino (August), named after the six-winged angel that appears on the town’s coat of arms, which, according to tradition, was painted by Saint Francis. A local delicacy to taste is the nougat tart, made strictly by hand with almonds, hazelnuts, spices, and baked in a wood-fired oven to give it its typical crunchy texture. Due to the 2016 earthquake, it is recommended to check the status of the areas and the accessibility of the monuments.

Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club The 'Balcony of the Marche', this is how Cingoli is called, rising on the summit of Mount Circe, at an altitude of over 600 metres. From the large terrace, which is located on the castle walls of medieval origin, one can admire an enchanted landscape, a painting that tells of the beauty of the Marches territory, as far as the sea, up to Mount Conero, with light brushstrokes. If, on the one hand, the historic centre is characterised by its splendid aristocratic palaces with warm colours and typical Renaissance portals and by churches that house masterpieces such as Lorenzo Lotto's Madonna del Rosario, on the other hand, the area surrounding the village is the ideal destination for nature lovers, who can enjoy the enchanting silence of the woods on the slopes of Mount San Vicino and near the Castreccioni Lake, where there is also an Adventure Park.

In the heart of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, between Bologna and Florence, the BOMBA – Bologna Montana Bike Area project was born: a network of trails dedicated to mountain biking and outdoor tourism that enhances the territory through well-maintained, signposted routes designed for different levels of experience. BOMBA promotes a sustainable and mindful enjoyment of the mountains, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to explore the Apennines actively, safely, and immersively. The trail requires good physical condition and familiarity with technical terrain: uneven sections, changes in gradient, and passages surrounded by greenery make the Lake Trail a challenge for hikers and outdoor lovers alike. The effort is more than rewarded by the beauty of the landscape and the sensation of traversing a territory far from the most frequented paths. A vast and panoramic area hosts two main hubs – Alpe Trail Gravity and Loiano Trail Gravity – connected by a network of trails designed for all levels, from beginners to experts. Downhill, Enduro, All Mountain, and Cross Country alternate across technical trails, long and smooth descents, scenic loops, and tracks immersed in the Apennine forests. The Bike Area is designed to provide complete services: e-MTB rentals, guided tours, riding courses for adults and children, charging points, picnic areas, and hospitality facilities along the trails. Assisted climbs and organized trails make the experience accessible and sustainable, showcasing the territory in every season.

Venzone, Malborghetto-Valbruna and Sutrio are three villages located in the north eastern part of Friuli Venezia Giulia. These three villages are ideal for mountain lovers - the Julian Prealps, the Julian Alps and the Carnic Alps are just around the corner! Would you like to discover them with me?

The Great Crossing of the Alps, known as the GTA, is a long-distance, medium-difficulty hiking route to be undertaken on foot, which runs along the Pennine, Graian, Cottian and Maritime Alps, as far as the valleys of the Ligurian Alps. In Piedmont, the GTA route covers 1,000 km and is divided into 55 stages, starting from Viozene, in the Ligurian Alps, and ending at Molini di Calasca, in the Anzasca Valley, in the Verbano Cusio Ossola region. A spectacular alpine trek for lovers of slow tourism and wildlife watching between valleys, villages and alpine lakes in wild landscapes along paths and mule tracks, all signposted and certified by CAI (Club Alpino Italiano), which make it possible to pass from valley to valley crossing the most accessible passes. Each stage involves 5 to 8 hours of walking. The recommended period is from mid-June to September, when (except for seasonal exceptions) there is no snow and all the places and shelters are accessible and open. All trails are identified by white and red signs, as well as metal flags with the GTA logo. At the end of each stage, you will find GTA accommodation or Italian Alpine Club mountain huts. Loop routes are also connected to the GTA, allowing you to start and return to your starting point. Departure Rivetti Mountain Hut 13811 Andorno Micca (BI) Arrival Barbara Lowrie Mountain Hut 10060 Bobbio Pellice (TO) Zone: Biella Valsesia Vercelli, Turin Departure: Andorno Micca Arrival: Bobbio Pellice Distance: 221.00 km Hiking time: 140 hours Departure height: 2,200 m Arrival height: 1,765 m Climb difference: 25,800 m Descent difference: 26,700 m Difficulty: Medium

The position is enchanting. Dobbiaco stands just above 1200 metres at the beginning of the high Pusteria valley, the "Land of the Three Peaks of Lavaredo", right at the mouth of the Landro valley, which stretches south towards Cadore and Ampezzano, creeping between high Dolomite peaks. At the gates of the town, there is also a lake, a shallow basin formed by the Rienza, with a perimeter of 4.5 kilometres: a gem set between the two natural parks of Fanes-Senes-Braies and Tre Cime. It's not difficult to understand why this town was one of the first tourist destinations in the region, famous already at the time of the Belle Époque and the Finis Austriae, when aristocrats, intellectuals and artists such as the composer Gustav Mahler (1860–1911) met in Dobbiaco: people accustomed to the elegance of Vienna who demanded the highest level of accommodation facilities. For them, the "new" part of the village was developed, with the railway station inaugurated in 1871 and the Grand Hotel, built in 1877–78, today home to the Tre Cime Nature Park and a large number of cultural initiatives. Dobbiaco boasts, in fact, a highly respected programme of artistic and musical events, centred between July and August on the concerts of Gustav Mahler Musikwochen. Further north, the historic centre of Dobbiaco clusters around the baroque grace of the Church of St. John the Baptist (1764–74) and Herbstenburg Castle (private), built from a medieval tower and expanded in the 1500s. Halfway between the two villages is Mondolatte, an ideal point of contact between culture, local traditions and gastronomic pleasures: this is the museum of milk and the art of cheese-making of the Latteria Tre Cime dairy, which also organises workshops and tasting sessions.

Lake Braies is an emerald of water that shines at an altitude of about 1490 metres, enveloped on three sides by a crown of Dolomite peaks that, reflected in its waters, doubles in size: Croda del Becco (2810 m) dominates over them all, with a wall that plummets to the southern shore of the lake. This is the heart of the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park, in a "world apart" of forests, alpine pastures and plateaus, where we arrive by taking a ten-kilometre detour from the Val Pusteria state road and cycle path, heading south. The splendid "postcard" of Lake Braies, with the bulk of the Croda in the background, is also well known for other reasons: the credit goes to the successful television series Un passo dal cielo (English: One step from heaven) with Terence Hill, filmed on its shores and broadcast by RAI since 2011. Approximately 1,200 metres long, up to 400 metres wide and more than 35 metres deep, the lake has a character that differs from almost all other Dolomite basins: it was formed by a huge landslide that fell from the Sasso del Signore onto the course of the Rio Braies, creating a natural barrage, neither glacial nor moraine in origin. Along the banks, between fir forests, runs a walk of about an hour, very pleasant and a little overcrowded in summer. The charm of the landscape and the great television fame have made the lake so popular that limits have been introduced to reduce the impact of tourism. This means that in summer, you cannot get there by car but only by bike or by shuttle (line 442 from Dobbiaco and Villabassa) or on foot from the car park (to be booked) in the village of Ferrara: this is where the theme path "Viktor Wolf Edler von Glanvell" starts, which takes an hour and a half. For those looking for more challenging hikes, the Alta via no. 1 of the Dolomites starts from the lake, the "Classica", which arrives in Belluno at the foot of the Schiara group.

The twin basins on the border with Slovenia Two crystal-clear stretches of water, surrounded by imposing mountains and wild nature, on the border between Italy and Slovenia. The ideal place for a breathtaking hike in all seasons or, simply, relax on the shore and unwind surrounded by greenery. The Fusine Lakes are two small but precious gems of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. These basins of glacial origin, one called Inferiore and the other Superiore, are connected by an underground water system and mirror the peaks of the Ponze ridge, the Mangart, the Masso Pirona and many other mountains in the Alps. The surrounding spruce, fir and beech forests are the perfect habitat for roe deer, red deer, chamois and various species of migratory birds. Trekking enthusiasts will find challenging trails in this area, such as the one leading to Rifugio Zacchi and Capanna Ponza, with spectacular views of the entire valley. In winter, the white of the snow makes the panorama even more magical. Have fun exploring the area with skis or snowshoes.