A route through the heart of nature that is also a spiritual experience, a pilgrimage in the footsteps of what was St Anthony’s last walk and which leads to the Hermitage of Montepaolo where the saint from Padua retired in penance for nine months.
The start is in front of the entrance to the thermal baths; from here we reach Piazza Mazzini, continue along Via della Fratta and start the approximately 4.5 km climb to Monte Cerreto (316 m a.s.l.).
After 1.4 km, just after passing the Petrosa farm, 50 meters from the main road, you will find the ‘Maestà di S. Antonio’ cell on the right; continue along the municipal road, skirting Mount Sina, until you reach the ‘Maestà Mater Consolationis’ of Bagnolo. Continue for about 1 km to Monte Cerreto, where the unpaved road begins. After another 500 meters, on the right-hand side, it is possible to admire the Grotta delle Fate (Fairies’ Cave), Monte Castellaccio and Monte Sassone (or Monte delle Civette).
The route now winds along the ridge, climbing until it reaches the Hermitage of Montepaolo
After a stop, you can proceed on the return route, following the outward journey backwards.
Route: Castrocaro Terme – Via Bagnolo – Monte Cerreto – Spiandarolo – Sant’Ellero – Montepaolo and return
Departure: Spa Entrance
Route: Round trip
Time required: 5/6 hours on foot
Height difference: 440 m
Length: 17 km
Prevailing environment: coast and ridge
Type of road: tarmac and unpaved
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