Trek Crossing Maiella: My Journey into the Wild Nature

A Unique Adventure in Maiella National Park

Last August, Silvia Donatiello set out on a one-of-a-kind adventure with a group of friends, embarking on the Trek Crossing Maiella. This multi-day hike through the heart of Maiella National Park led them to discover breathtaking landscapes, medieval villages, and places rich in history and tradition, far away from everyday routine. The journey revealed the primal beauty of nature and the authenticity of the places they traversed.

Exploring Sulmona and Pacentro

Their adventure began in Sulmona, a town filled with historical and cultural charm. Before heading to the trails, they picked up the Charta Peregrini at the Abbey of Santo Spirito al Morrone, a place with strong historical energy. After visiting Sulmona’s town center, the group moved on to their first medieval village, Pacentro, nestled among the mountains. The view of the Castello Caldora and the surrounding valley made for a perfect start to the journey.

Hiking in Maiella National Park

The hike continued through nature trails, leading them to awe-inspiring landscapes at every turn. The first night under the stars, camping out in the wilderness and cooking over a makeshift fire, was an unforgettable experience—immersed in the silence of the mountains and accompanied only by the sounds of nature.

Passo San Leonardo and Roccacaramanico: Freedom and History

On the second day, the group reached Passo San Leonardo, where the open panorama and the wind gave them a profound sense of freedom. The descent towards Roccacaramanico was just as spectacular, with the village, almost uninhabited, seeming suspended in time, its stone houses enveloped in silence and tranquility.

Discovering the Orfento Valley and Sant'Onofrio Hermitage

One of the most emotional moments of their journey was walking through the Orfento Valley, a deep canyon carved by the river. The breathtaking scenery and profound silence made them feel small in the face of nature's grandeur. Along the way, they encountered the ancient Sant'Onofrio Hermitage, carved into the rock, a place that exuded spirituality and beauty.

The Incredible San Giovanni Hermitage and Maielletta

As the journey progressed, they crossed the Pianagrande meadows, with views over the Orfento Valley, stopping to visit the San Giovanni Hermitage, carved into the rock. This spot was one of the most enchanting parts of the trek, feeling suspended between the sky and earth. The trail then led them through the meadows of Maielletta and into the deep Vallone di Santo Spirito, a place rich with ancient energy.

Giumentina Valley and San Bartolomeo in Legio Hermitage

Their path eventually led them to the Giumentina Valley, once a grazing ground and agricultural land, now an untouched corner of history and nature. There, they visited the San Bartolomeo in Legio Hermitage, another spiritual refuge carved into the rock, where they paused to reflect on the extraordinary experience of walking in the footsteps of past shepherds and hermits.

The Final Leg: Serramonacesca and the Abbey of San Liberatore

The final stretch of their journey took them to Serramonacesca, where the trek was nearing its end. Before concluding their adventure, they visited the imposing Abbey of San Liberatore, where the last stamp on their Charta Peregrini marked the completion of an incredible journey. Their smiles spoke volumes—this trip had transformed them, making them feel lighter, more aware, and more connected to the world around them.

An Experience to Remember Forever

The Trek Crossing Maiella was an adventure that brought unforgettable emotions. Hiking for days through mountains, valleys, and medieval villages, sleeping under the stars, and sharing the journey with friends is an experience that will remain in their hearts forever. If you’re looking for a trip that goes beyond just trekking, allowing you to rediscover the beauty of slowness and the magic of wild nature, Trek Crossing Maiella is the perfect experience for you.