The route originates in Piediluco (Umbrian stretch) and enters in Lazio at Labro,. It continues through Morro Reatino towards Rivodutri following paths and mule tracks, where it crosses the route of Valle Santa Reatina. Then it finally arrives to Poggio Bustone, where we can admire the Sacro Speco.
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| Distance 21,72 Km | Travel time 7 h | Water sources yes |
|---|---|---|
| Increase in altitude + 750 | Degree of difficulty Hard | Resting Areas yes |
| Loss of altitude – 450 | Trail Type Tarmac, dirt road and walking paths | Signage yes |
The route originates in Piediluco (Umbrian stretch) and enters in Lazio at Labro,. It continues through Morro Reatino towards Rivodutri following paths and mule tracks, where it crosses the route of Valle Santa Reatina. Then it finally arrives to Poggio Bustone, where we can admire the Sacro Speco.
From the Sanctuary of St. Francis in Piediluco to the Beech Tree of St. Francis
The walk begins from the Sanctuary of St. Francis of Assisi (370 metres above sea level) in the centre of Piediluco and continues through the poplars and willow trees, along the lake side as far as the rowing club; from here the walk goes along the S.S. Ternana road for around 500 metres in the direction of Rieti, as far as a water fountain, from where the trail then proceeds along the dirt road. Approximately 50m up the road on the right is a stone tower, looking out over Labro, and from there the walk continues towards Pacce for around 300 m as far as the swimming pools. Leaving behind the pools on the left, the dirt road then bends slightly to the right as it begins to climb, and after around 1.5 km, amongst the junipers and oaks, the walk reaches Labro, just beside the fountain. Passing through the historical centre of the town, the walk reaches the police barracks, on the crossroads of the road from Terni to Leonessa. The trail then continues uphill along the dirt road that can be seen at the centre of the crossroads. The road is paved in stretches and climbs for around 2 km, until it reaches the outskirts of Morro Reatino, near the Cemetery. From here the walk follows the main road to Leonessa in the direction of Morro Reatino, for around 150 m, until it reaches a fountain on the bend, and leaves the main road behind to continue along a smaller road, which then meets up with the S.S. Leonessa road again after 500m. A few dozen metres along the main road, at the restaurant by the crossroads, the smaller road continues uphill, passing alongside a roadmender’s house. After passing an unsurfaced bend, the route reaches a pine forest on the left. The road then levels out for a while, before rising uphill again until it meets the dirt road from Cepparo, which leads to the Beech Tree of St. Francis.
A footpath lined with oaks and junipers runs in a northerly direction along the side of the road for a short time, then the path continues until it arrives at a cross at the top of the hill.
After the cross it is a gradual downhill walk, until the path reaches the valley and the Beech Tree of St. Francis (1.090 metres above sea level).
From the Beech Tree of St. Francis to Poggio Bustone
From the Beech of St. Francis take the way to Cepparo and walk past a crucifix you will find on the right. A shaded path will lead you to a mountain road, turn left and, after 600 meters, you will reach the village. After a short further walk along the main road turn left and you will find the Clover Ditch.
After 3 km you will arrive to Querce Sante and Campi della Rocca, and then, after covering a flat stretch, turn right and, after 700 meters, you will reach Case Fanfani. Turn left and follow the provincial road that leads to the Sanctuary.
VARIATION FOR EXPERTS
Starting from the Beech, leave the church behind you and continue walking through a wide meadow till you reach a steep path among the trees and then a dirt track. Turn right and, at a short distance, a sharp turn to the left will lead you to a steep downward slope a stream and in the end you will find the main path where the crossing of the Clover Ditch is located.
Small fountains are located in Labro, Colle Rucciolo and Capparo.
Intermediate stops
Along the route we meet the village of Labro and the little hamlets by Morro Reatino and Rivodutri.
Not to be missed
Labro, with the castle Nobili Vitelleschi, Rivodutri, with its alchemic arch and the springs of Santa Susanna, the beech tree of Francesco and the Sanctuary of San Giacomo in Poggio Bustone.
Tastings
Broccoli strascinati, ciambella ruzza and fagiolo gentile (broccoli, doughnuts and beans).
Rivodutri
Biologic trout and the flour of Santa Susanna.
Poggio Bustone
Porchetta (roasted pork) festival on the first Sunday of October.