PARCO NAZIONALE DEI MONTI SIBILLINI

Although most of this natural site covers land in the neighbouring region of Marche, 20% of its 70,000 ha is in Umbria (nearly 18,000 ha in this region). In addition to wolves, golden eagles, great owls, deer, mountain cats and chamois, the Sibylline Mountains National Park is distinguished by its many varieties of plants and trees. More than 1,800 species have been recorded, including the Alpine anemone and the Apennine edelweiss. It is in this park that the river Nera has its source, and then flows through the valleys of the Apennines. This park is definitely the best place to hike in the middle of nature. A spectacular hiking trail (Grande Annello dei Sibillini) starts from Norcia and, in 9 stages, goes around the park. Don't miss the natural lake of Pilate, at an altitude of 1,940 m, as if it were set in a cirque of glacial origin.

We also recommend the Castelluccio plateau, at an altitude of 1,452 m. This fantastic landscape forms the largest closed basin in Italy. Every year, from the end of May to mid-July, the flowering of the plateau gives rise to a real explosion of colours. Ideal for a first hang-gliding experience (www.prodelta.it)!

Casa del Parco in Norcia: specialized office on the National Park of the Sibylline Mountains. Piazza San Benedetto - ✆ +39 0743 828 173 - [email protected]. Hikes can also be organized by the tourist office.