BETWEEN WATERFALLS AND STREAMS: The Menotre Valley

Our excursion starts in the small village of Pale. As we admire the charm of this quaint village, the guide will share the story of its paper mills, which have been operating since the 13th century using hydraulic power from the Menotre River. Here, the river, channeled through a very narrow and rocky passage, has created waterfalls, gorges, and caves—a fun adventure for both adults and children! We walk towards the Hermitage of Santa Maria di Giacobbe, a small gem perfectly set into the rock. Descending along a country lane, we follow the Via Lauretana, a pilgrimage route from Assisi to Loreto, which will bring us back to the starting point. There are many waterfalls along our path, one of which hides a cave, and some disappear into crevices in the ground only to reappear further downstream. Surrounded by rich and diverse vegetation, we’ll enjoy a truly unique family experience! Along the way, we’ll encounter remnants of a Roman aqueduct and an old paper mill, testament to the ancient relationship humans have had with this environment. A visit to the Badessa Caves in Pale is also possible. Want to hear more of the sound of water? We recommend visiting the nearby village of Rasiglia, a fairy-tale town crisscrossed by streams, full of picturesque paths and little bridges.

WOODS AND CHOCOLATE – Monte Malbe

A half-day excursion through the woods of Monte Malbe, just a stone’s throw from Perugia. The vegetation is typical of Mediterranean scrub, with holm oaks and dense underbrush. Particularly notable is the presence of the rare broom heath (similar to wild heather), which is extremely scarce in Italy. Along the route, we find the Romitorio with its spring, and the famous trosce (local term for puddles), which are vital to the area’s natural balance. We’ll see traces of old charcoal pits and lime kilns, where lime was once produced. This is a lovely walk to learn about the forest and its inhabitants: wild boars, foxes, porcupines, badgers, and especially amphibians, who find refuge in the trosce—including newts, salamanders, frogs, and toads. We recommend ending with a visit to Perugia, reached via the mini-metro that will take you to the city center. Search out a pastry or chocolate shop and indulge in the most beloved treat in the world! A visit to the “House of Chocolate” can also be booked.

WHO KILLED THE WILD CAT? – Environmental Mystery – Monteluco

We’re in Monteluco, a hillside area near Spoleto with a dense ancient holm oak forest culminating in a plateau at the mountain’s summit. The protected forest, made up mainly of centuries-old holm oaks, shelters a variety of wildlife, including the wildcat, which is slowly repopulating the Apennines. We propose an excursion that doubles as an investigation, uncovering the mystery step by step to find out who is responsible for the death of a wildcat within the protected area. You will start with details of the incident and suspects, receive the first clues, and set off on a walk, thinking and gathering more clues as you go. You’ll have fun learning all about this important predator and its ecosystem. At the end of the excursion, you’ll present your answer as to who should be brought to justice!

Departure.