L’Eremo e la Dolina
Naturalistic Trail
Starting point
Roccantica, RI
Typer of route
Footpath
Length
7 km
Duration
3-4 hours (stops inclused)
Drop
300m
Difficult
Medium
Itinerary by:
Suvvia, sentieri ripresi.
This itinerary will take you to discover an evocative corner of Sabina, where history, nature and spectacular landscapes are harmoniously intertwined.
Crossing ancient paths and immersed in an unspoiled environment, the route follows the traces of a fascinating past, among medieval villages, hidden places of worship and evidence of rural life in the past. The path gives unique views and a sense of deep stillness, leading the visitor on a journey between history and nature to breathtaking vistas that leave one breathless.
The itinerary
Village of Roccantica
the departure of the itinerary is from Roccantica a fascinating fortified village, erected in 1576 by the Orsini family. Designed according to the Renaissance principles of the “fortress village,” it was intended to be completely self-sufficient in case of siege. Inside were cellars for storing wine, oil and grain, a millstone, an oil mill, vats, woodsheds and small vegetable gardens protected by the walls.
Some of the defensive elements of this fortification are still visible, such as the tower-houses with stone buttresses, which can be found along St. Valentine’s Square and Via Romana to Via Nuova. The village wall, bounded by St. Joseph, Pacigno, Arcoscuro and Valentini streets, originally included the Roman Gate, which was demolished in the 18th century and replaced by the access now known as “the columns.”
L’Eremo of San Leonardo
The walk continues along a narrow, rocky road, shrouded in unspoiled nature, following CAI Trail 354. This path leads to the Hermitage of San Leonardo, an ancient place of recollection and prayer set in the rock. Nestled in the silence of the forest, the hermitage retains a mystical charm, bearing witness to the spirituality and history of those who, over the centuries, have found here a refuge of peace and contemplation.
Medieval Mill
Not far from the Hermitage of San Leonardo, amidst the vegetation and the sound of water, are the ruins of an ancient medieval mill. Once the hub of rural life, this mill harnessed the power of water to grind grain. Today, its remains tell of a past linked to the agricultural traditions of Sabina, immersed in an evocative and timeless landscape.
The Revotan Doline
The last leg of the itinerary leads to the viewpoint over the Revotano doline, a striking karst formation located near Roccantica. This natural depression, surrounded by lush vegetation, offers visitors a fascinating example of the region’s typical geological phenomena, making it an ideal place for nature and geology enthusiasts.In addition, thanks to the presence of a viewpoint, photography enthusiasts will be able to take home beautiful shots of the Dolina.
Video itinerary
Loop itinerary from Roccantica to the Revotano sinkhole