There are those who wait for Easter Monday to gather around a grid and who, as soon as the smell of spring smell, already dream of putting the boots and leave. If you belong to the second category, this article is for you. Because there is an Italy that, far from the usual tourist routes, holds many enchanting scenarios and paths from the fairytale scent, and the good news is that, to enjoy it, it does not need to cross the planet. Just a little curiosity and the desire to be surprised.
We selected Five excursions not to be missedperfect for living an Easter Monday in the open air. Some will take you on silent paths set in the mountains, others will make you walk next to forgotten castles, or they will lead you to Canyon that seem stolen from Arizona. Ready to fill the oxygen lungs and the memory of wonder?
Red blades, the Canyon of the Marche that seems to have come out of a western movie
Difficult to believe, but there is a corner of Italy where the landscape turns from green to fire red. We are talking about the red blades, rock formations carved by the wind and water in the province of Macerata, within the Monti Sibillini National Park. They can be reached with an excursion accessible to the least trained: about three hours between round trip, with a modest difference in height and a visual reward of absolute value.
The path starts from Lake Fiastra, follows a flat stretch in the woods and climbs slightly before opening, suddenly, on an amphitheater of Guglie Rosso. A landscape reminiscent of the Grand Canyon, but without jet lag and with the possibility of returning home for dinner. Bring water with you, suitable shoes and a pinch of adventure spirit: the ending is spectacular, but earning it makes everything even more beautiful.
The Castles of Cannero, mystery suspended on the waters of Lake Maggiore
If you have a weakness for mysterious stories and romantic architectures, the Castles of Cannero could be your ideal stop. Located on three islets a few meters from the Piedmontese bank of Lake Maggiore, they seem to float on the water as fairytale wrecks. After years of closing, they finally reopened to the public, allowing those who love excursions a little different from the usual to explore these fascinating ruins.
The adventure starts from Cannero Riviera, a nice village overlooking the lake. From there, you can admire the shape of the castles in the distance or, if you want to dare a little more, take part in a guided tour by boat. The sight from the waters gives a unique perspective on these fortresses built in the fifteenth century to defend the Duchy of Milan. Today, they remain to witness a glorious past and a present that smells of rebirth, all immersed in the lake quiet which is pure poetry in Easter Monday.
Valle Aurina, authentic nature in the heart of Trentino-Alto Adige
To the north of Trentino, where the mountains begin to become severe and the air smells of wood and freedom, the Aurina valley reveals itself in all its wonder. It is one of the most green valleys and less beaten by tourists, ideal for those looking for direct contact with nature. Here the paths are designed for everyone: families, expert walkers and simple lovers of silence.
One of the most suggestive walks starts from Lutago and crosses the Acereto forest, between ancient farms and panoramas that look like cards. Or, for those who want a more open view, there is the path that leads to the Malga Speikboden, with large alpine meadows and views that remove their breath. There is no shortage of shelters where you can stop and enjoy a hot dish, perhaps with the first sun’s rays that warm the skin. Trentino, on Easter Monday, is a promise of peace.
The Fort of Fenestrelle, the “Chinese wall” of Piedmont
Who said that excursions must take place only in wild nature? Sometimes, the best path is the one that intertwines landscape and history: the Fort of Fenestrelle is a perfect example. We are in Val Chisone, about an hour from Turin, and one of the largest fortifications in Europe stands before our eyes: 3 kilometers of walls, 4,000 steps, seven hours of the route.
It is not necessary to travel them all to hear the charm of this place. Just follow one of the many guided itineraries – from 1 to 4 hours – to immerse yourself in a suspended atmosphere, between military architectures and panoramas that open on the Cozie Alps. Walking here is like crossing a history book written with the stone. Each step tells of wars, prisoners, dreams of conquest. And on Easter Monday, between a climb and a deep breath, you can rediscover how powerful the link between man and his land is.
The path of the 3 villages: the smallest journey in Italy
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Inaugurated in May 2021, this 20 km ring path crosses the Etruscan territory of Tuscia. Starting from Villa San Giovanni in Tuscia, the path connects the villages of Barbarano Romano and Blera along ancient tracks, including necropolises, bridges and cave streets in the tuff.
The excursion, which can be completed in one day, costs € 5 with reservations required in Cammini.freedom@gmail.com. Participants receive a map and can collect stamps in the designated points to obtain the certificate of the Etruscan wayfarer.
Ready to leave?
Easter Monday is the perfect day to leave the stress behind and regain the slow time. These five excursions are only a taste of what Italy can offer to those who choose to walk. That you decide to go up to the red blades, to discover the Castles of Cannero, to lose you in the woods of the Aurina Valley, to face the steps of the Fort of Fenestrelle or to follow the steps on the path of Lake Maggiore, the important thing is to leave.
Backpack on the shoulder, curious eyes and open heart: nature has already prepared its party. And you, what are you doing, are you coming?
