THE WAY OF FRANCIS: from Macenano to Arrone and the Marmore Falls

The route begins in Macenano and, with a short detour, leads us to the Abbey of San Pietro in Valle, a treasure trove of beautiful architecture and frescoes, including a powerful depiction of the Last Judgment. The trail follows a flat path along the River Nera, whose meandering bends are likened in local legends to a dragon’s coils. Walking along ancient communication routes, guarded by hillside castles, we are immersed in lush nature, passing cultivated fields and a narrow strip of riverside forest dominated by willows, poplars, and alders. Another brief detour takes us to the ghost town of Umbriano with its now-abandoned castle, open for a true exploration. We continue with the constant sound of the Nera’s waters, reaching Ferentillo, a small town known as one of the most famous spots for sport climbing. It is also home to the Museum of Mummies, a small exhibit showcasing perfectly preserved mummies dating back as far as the 17th century. Transfer to the Marmore Falls, created by the waters of the Velino and Nera Rivers, the tallest artificial waterfall in Europe! The Marmore Falls Park is rich in biodiversity, hosting rare species like the dipper and wagtail, as well as amphibians, insects, and aquatic plants. The day can end with rafting activities OR a guided tour of an oil mill for a visit and tasting of one of Umbria’s famous local products.

THE WAY OF FRANCIS: Città di Castello loop by bike

This itinerary is ideal for gravel and mountain bikes. Starting from Il Sasso, 6 km from the center of Città di Castello, we ascend along the Way of Saint Francis on the ridge, following it to the ancient Pieve de Saddi, a church dedicated to Saint Crescentian. We pass near the village of Candeggio, where you can stop for a visit and tasting at a local dairy. The route is picturesque, passing through the forests of Sodolungo and Monte Rosso, with extensive groves of Turkey oak and hop hornbeam interspersed with pastures and meadows where orchids bloom beautifully. Upon returning to the starting point, you can enjoy a slice of “torta al testo” with your preferred filling—the quintessential Umbrian snack!

THE PATH OF SILENT VILLAGES – Civitella del Lago loop

The Path of Silent Villages is a large loop at the northern foot of the Monti Amerini. This section starts in Civitella del Lago, overlooking Lake Corbara and the Tiber Valley. A visit to the historic center is a must, and for the curious, there is the Painted Egg Museum, showcasing thousands of decorated eggs. The route is varied and geologically intriguing, especially with its karst features. Dolines and strange phenomena appear along the path, like the “wind holes,” a karst phenomenon where air is forcefully pushed out of cavities connected to an extensive underground system due to the temperature difference between inside and outside. The vegetation is dominated by holm oak woods and Mediterranean scrub, with a pocket of impressive chestnut trees.

Departure.