4TH ROUTE: Monastery – Garulla (18.3 km)

The route climbs the broad ridge culminating in Mount Sassotetto (1,624 m) and, after crossing the Piani di Ragnolo, descends back to Garulla by cutting across the northern slope of Mount Castel Manardo (1,917 m).

All along the way the views are always enchanting, with views, to the south, of the Monte Rotondo massif and the peaks of Pizzo Tre Vescovi, Monte Priora and Pizzo Berro. To the east, the view sweeps over the harmonious Picene hills to the Adriatic Sea. In traversing the meadows one is often accompanied by the song of larks, while turning one’s gaze upward, it is easy to observe the kestrel that remains almost motionless in midair. The particularly picturesque winter environment also provides opportunities for ski tours. The mountain pastures of the Piani di Ragnolo give spectacular blooms in spring. Periodic mowing for hay production is also practiced in many meadows. This traditional activity contributes to maintaining a high floristic and landscape diversity.

Length: 18 km
Uphill elevation gain: 863 m
Height difference on descent: 743 m
Highest point: 1534 m
Lowest point: 745 m
Type of surface: mixed

Municipality of departure: Cessapalombo
Starting location: Monastery
Municipality of arrival: Amandola
Place of arrival: Garulla

Recommended period: all year round

The Great Sibillini Ring is a hiking route of about 124 km that encompasses the entire mountain range found in the Umbria-Marche Apennines. Divided into 9 stages, it is fully signposted and allows you to get to know, in addition to the multiplicity of landscapes and natural beauty, part of the priceless historical and cultural heritage that this territory preserves.

The Great Sibillini Ring is among the most beautiful routes incentral Italy. Through the nine stages it is possible to circumnavigate the territory of the Sibillini Mountains National Park, visiting the history of its small villages and the wilderness of its mountains. The tour encompasses the Park in a clockwise direction, starting from the location of Visso and returning to it after passing through some characteristic places, such as the ancient route of the Kingdom of Naples, the Sanctuary of Macereto, the town of Fiastra and the lake of the same name, the Abbey of San Salvatore, the Argenta Valleys Museum, the Abbey of St. Vincent and Anastasius, Mount Carrier and more.

On the way you can enjoy the Apennine landscape and spot the wildlife that inhabits the Park. The excellent organization of the park authority, as well as the great availability of information regarding the routes, allows for dynamic organization of the tour, enabling you to change its length according to your availability of time and energy.