Itineraries

The area features a network of trails perfect for exploring on foot or by bicycle, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature, history, and vineyards. Since this destination is still relatively undiscovered, we encourage visitors to approach their adventures with curiosity and respect. A variety of routes are available, ranging in difficulty, including a newly opened cycle path that is suitable for all ages.

The Lake

A place of peace and unexpected encounters

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The natural lake of Falciano del Massico, of volcanic origin, lies on the southern slopes of Mount Massico, just a short distance from the village. This protected area is part of the Natura 2000 network of Sites of Community Importance (SCI) and is home to more than 80 species of birds, including both resident and migratory species. The lake, whose present size is largely the result of land reclamation works carried out during the first half of the nineteenth century under the Bourbon Kingdom, supports a rich wetland ecosystem. Its shores are characterised by typical aquatic vegetation, including common reeds, sedges, poplars, white willows and black alders.

We recommended that you bring the following Equipment:

High-cut trekking boots and long hiking pants;
Backpack with a change of clothes and a rain jacket;
1.5 liters of water (2 in summer), a packed lunch and energy snacks;
A Hat, sunscreen (in summer), trekking poles and a fully charged power banK

Sant’Angelo Cave

A journey through history and legend

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Leave your car in the parking area near Piazza Limata and walk up the ancient Corso del Re. Along the way, admire the oldest church in the village, dedicated to Saints Rocco and Martino. Although it took its present form in the sixteenth century, its origins date back much further. The route continues towards the locality known as “Tre Croci”, where the path climbs into the woodlands of Mount Massico. After approximately an hour and a half of walking, you will reach the large limestone cave known as the “Grotta di Sant’Angelo”, where legend tells of a hermit who once lived. This mysterious cavern was already inhabited during the Pleistocene. Its entrance spans almost one hundred metres, while long stalactites descend from the ceiling like the columns of an ancient temple.

The Massico woodland

Between unspoilt nature and ancient hermitages

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Park along the “Via Panoramica” near the gate, where the old forestry track begins. This long route crosses the central section of Mount Massico, allowing you to experience the unspoilt beauty of its woodland, home to black pines, oaks, holm oaks, strawberry trees and hornbeams. If you are lucky, you may also encounter some of the forest’s inhabitants: foxes, weasels, stone martens, wild boars, pine martens, badgers, hedgehogs, moles and dormice. The area is also home to around ninety species of birds that fly freely through the woods. Remember that Mount Massico is their home and deserves your utmost respect. After approximately two and a half hours of walking, you will reach the hermitage of Saint Martin, dating back to the eighth century AD, in the place where the hermit Martin, a contemporary of Saint Benedict, once lived. According to Christian tradition, he chose to live in a small cave where the remains of a valuable fresco can still be seen today. During the Early Middle Ages, this artwork covered the entire chapel carved into the rock.

Alternative route to the hermitage of Saint Martin

This alternative route begins in the historic settlement of Falciano Capo, one of the two original centres that later formed present-day Falciano del Massico, together with Falciano Selice. The walk passes through Piazza San Pietro, where you can admire the wooden choir loft decorated with fine late eighteenth-century frescoes inside the seventeenth-century Church of Saint Peter the Apostle. The route then continues along Via Monte Massico until it meets the Panoramica road. From there, it follows a path alongside the hill known as “Castelluccio”, where you may choose to make a short detour to visit the remains of a Roman villa. Returning to the main route, the trail climbs through the locality known as “Conche” before entering the heart of the woodland and finally reaching the Early Medieval hermitage.

Falerno wineries

Between rural trails and exceptional wine tastings

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Among panoramic trails, historic vineyards and rural roads that cross the countryside of Falciano del Massico, a route has been created for those who enjoy walking and cycling at a leisurely pace, guided by the landscape and its flavours.

The Falerno wineries route is designed for hikers and cycle tourists seeking an authentic experience immersed in nature and local tradition. Along the way, visitors can reach the area’s leading producers of Falerno del Massico wine, nestled among the hills at the foot of Mount Massico and surrounded by vineyards that have told the story of this land’s winemaking heritage for centuries.