The Spoleto-Norcia Trail

A hike for true enthusiasts, this trail follows the former railway line that connected Spoleto and Norcia. The line opened in 1926 and chugged through rugged terrain through tunnels and gorges to open a transportation route that had formerly involved scaling mountains to reach. Far-flung villages that had been reached only by mule track suddenly had access to the bigger towns, and could sell their agricultural and artisan goods. The railway operated until 1968, when new roads provided easier access to the Valnerina.

The old track has been removed and the line is now a 51-kilometer long hiking and biking trail that provides spectacular scenery and challenging terrain to trek. It starts at the little station in Spoleto, where there is also a small train museum. It trods through idyllic countryside, passes age-old hamlets, crosses stone bridges and skirts the Nera River. It takes in mountain peaks and narrow valleys, and plunges you into deep dark tunnels, including one that is 2-kilometers long and another that does a 360-degree loop. (Bring a flashlight!)

If you're up for a serious hike, this is the trail for you. Make sure you have sturdy hiking boots, a flashlight, a cell phone and some snacks and water with you. When you arrive in the pleasant town of Norcia, you'll be able to reward yourself with some of Italy's best culinary delights. You can spend the night, or catch a bus back to Spoleto. (This trail is not for casual walkers or children, though!)

Autobus schedule to return to Spoleto, operated through TrenItalia