Today Alessio will take us on a tour in the Orfento Valley originating its name after the River Orfento. The river, over millions of years, has eroded its course in one of the most interesting mountain landscapes in the Majella Mountain down to the Town of Caramanico Terme (Pescara Province, about 60 km West of TANTO Wines Cellar). This area was declared Natural Reservation in 1970 and subsequently incorporated in the Majella National Park. It extends from  500 to 2,676 mt. of elevation on Mount Focalone, a “giant” of limestone, the third highest peak of the Majella.

The top part of the Orfento Valley at the base of Mount Focalone

In this area the considerable height differences and the diversity of exposures result in a high variability in climate and vegetation. It gradually changes from high alpine meadows and thick “Pinus Mugo” Forests, relics of ancient glaciations of the Quaternary, to lush beech forests that are only occasionally interrupted by steep cliffs overlooking the valley, where, set like diamonds, are old huts and monasteries reflecting the perfect synergy between men and the surrounding environment that once characterized this valley.

A stunning view of the varied vegetation from the Pinus Mugo Forrest to the Beech Forrest

We will start our easy/interesting, four hours tour with Alessio, our guide, at the base of the so called Caramanico Bridge, where for about 1 hour we will ascend the Orfento River following the picturesque track that sometimes wades the river with the help of characteristic wooden bridges.

A view of the initial part of the Valley

Once we reach the St.Cataldo Bridge path moves slightly away from the river into a sparse undergrowth consisting mainly of riparian flora alternating with Mediterranean floristic elements of great naturalistic value. Then after about half an hour walk the trail climbs gently in and out of the woods to open in a splendid panoramic view of the central part of the valley which penetrates deeper into the heart of the Majella.

A view of the initial part of the Orfento Valley

We will walk a little further until we reach the so called Vallone Bridge on the right of the Valley where we will rest by a small refreshing waterfall enjoying a break and a nice “panino” before we smoothly walk back to the starting point.

The Vallone Bridge

If you want to contact Alessio for more information about the above described places or the possibility of going hiking with him you can email him at massarialessio@hotmail.it