STAGE 2: Spigno Saturnia – Maranola (23 km)

It is the most challenging but also the most scenic stage of the Aurunci Trail. An entirely mountainous route, entering the heart of the Aurunci Mountains territory, reaching the highest peak, Mount Petrella. This peak enjoys the record of being the highest and closest to the sea in Europe.

Technical description:
From the small square in Spigno Vecchia, proceed on the paved road to the cemetery, past which the road continues uphill toward the mountains. After about 1 km, take CAI trail No. 968.
The route is challenging, especially because of the elevation gain to be overcome. After about 2 hours of climbing, the Strampaduro Saddle is reached. Continuing left along the same path, after about an hour and a half of walking through the forest, the Fossa Juanna sinkhole opens up before us.
After about 500 meters, having reached the Fossa Juanna fork, follow trail No. 963 to the left, which shortly leads to the summit of Mt. Petrella (1530 m.).

From here we continue along Trail No. 913 to nearby Monte Sant’Angelo where a truly impressive panorama opens up. Passing through the dense forest in a westerly direction, following trails Nos. 961 and 962, we reach the summit of Mount Redeemer where the statue of Christ the Redeemer stands out. Even from here the view is priceless: it stretches over the entire gulf below, from Vesuvius to Circeo.
Just below the Redeemer, continue along CAI Trail No. 960 to make a stop at the Church of St. Michael the Archangel before continuing downhill to the Pornito Shelter. A well-deserved meal is available here (check opening and make reservations) before continuing along the paved mountain road that ends in Maranola, the stage finish.

Length: 23 km
Elevation gain: 1528 m
Height difference on descent: 1618 m
Highest point: 1530 m
Lowest point: 257 m
Type of surface: mixed

Technical tips:
The route is almost entirely on CAI mountain trails. It involves a good elevation gain and several hours of hiking, so you need to be trained for this type of hike. Hiking boots and poles are recommended.
There are no water sources along the way, so arrangements must be made for departure.

Municipality of departure: Spigno Saturnia
Place of departure: Spigno Saturnia Superiore
Municipality of arrival: Formia
Place of arrival: Maranola

Recommended period:
All year round. The best times are spring and fall.

Where to park:
In Spigno Saturnia Superiore, free parking.

Useful links:
https://www.camminodegliaurunci.org/
https://www.parcoaurunci.it/