WLK15 San Rocco

The itinerary begins at the church of San Rocco, which is located along the old Via Flaminia between Cantiano and Pontericcioli.

Construction of the small church began in 1637, but it was subsequently extensively renovated. In those years, the plague was widespread, which explains the dedication to Saint Roch, the patron saint against that disease. The exterior is made of exposed stone, while the interior is plastered and contains valuable paintings illustrating the life of the saint.

From here, take the road that descends toward the Serendipity farmhouse, crossing the Burano River and then the new SS Flaminia road. Now, the trail begins to climb, passing a cannery specializing in jams and products made from black cherries and other fruit.

At a crossroads, turn left, ignoring the turnoff for Col d'Agello. Shortly after, you'll reach Casa Meleto, where a sheep farm is guarded by a truly remarkable number of sheepdogs. When I passed, the sheep were inside the fenced area and the main gate was closed. I hope this is always the case, but I can't guarantee it.

The route continues along the same road, without any detours, maintaining the climb until reaching Pianacci. The slope along which it ascends offers a remarkable, open view of the ridge stretching from Nerone to Catria. Unfortunately, there isn't much vegetation around the road, so the hike is not recommended during the hottest and sunniest hours of the day.

Continuing, you change slopes, and along the descent you can glimpse the Burano Valley, where the Strada della Contessa runs just above Pontericcioli. You'll encounter a single house on the final stretch of the descent, just before reaching the intersection with Strada Contessa. There's no way to avoid it, so you'll need to walk along the side of the road with some caution, given the traffic, which can be heavy.

After about 400 meters, you reach the Pontericcioli crossroads, where you continue along the old Via Flaminia, which is much safer and more relaxing. Right at the beginning of this stretch, you'll find a beautiful fountain built in 1933. Continuing, you'll pass beneath the village of Palazzo and, in less than two kilometers, you'll reach the starting point.