Now thatsummer is over, it’s time to talk about trails we can do next year, starting with the easiest and increasing in difficulty.
In past episodes we have talked about the Wayfarer’s Trail and the Brigantes’ Trail.
Today, however, we are going to Abruzzo and, more specifically to the Gran Sasso to talk about, precisely, the Gran Sasso Trail.
I chose to start here because The Gran Sasso Trail is suitable for everyone, with a route of about 60 km to be done in 5 stages (but, if desired, it can also be reduced to 4).
The main feature that makes it “easy,” in addition to the distance, is the elevation gain: in fact, we are talking about 1,500 total meters of positive elevation gain (spread over 60 km) and a good 2,500 meters of descent. Despite the mountainous terrain, the walk is not particularly challenging, there are no technical stretches, and-except in winter, when heavy snow makes some areas unusable-it can be walked comfortably from spring to fall.
If you are looking for total immersion in nature, silence and different views than usual (at times lunar), I recommend you pay attention because this path is definitely for you. 
Photo: Sara Savoldi / Wikimedia
In addition to its grandeur and the view of the valley below, Rocca Calascio Castle has become famous for being the set of major films such as Ladyhawke and The Name of the Rose.
The mystical atmosphere and wild beauty of the place leave anyone who ventures up to this fortress speechless.
However, the trail also offers other movie-related surprises-especially for those who, like me, are over 30 years old. Scoppaturo Canyon, in fact, is where one of the iconic scenes from the movie They Kept Calling Him Trinity was filmed, which, if you’ve never seen it, you should remedy as soon as possible (even if it is not available on streaming platforms). All this makes the hike not only a natural and cultural experience, but also a journey through places that have entered film history. 
Photo: A Passerini / Wikimedia
Crossing mule tracks and ancient roads, one has the opportunity to visit architectural and natural gems such as theHermitage of Santa Colomba and the San Venanzio Gorges.
Photo: Ra Boe
Find more information on the walk’s website.
