Here is the route
What you will see
At a glance
Up and down
Description
The starting point is at the end of the long building that once housed the Baldeschi-Sandreani millstone factory, right across from the bend of the Burano River that laps Cantiano. Founded in 1869 and closed around 1960, it was once the largest in Italy. The stone used to build the millstones came from Catria quarries carved out of Corniola, a rock that contains extensive flint beds suitable for the purpose.
From here, take the paved road that leads to Casale. At the first bend, you'll come across the charming Chapel of "Christ Tied to the Column" in Colsecco, inside which is a plaque commemorating 74 hostages saved from Nazi reprisals in July 1944.
Continue up the pleasant climb, flanked by large downy oak trees, until you reach the first crossroads, where you'll follow the signs for the Col d'Agello farmhouse and restaurant.
At the next intersection, almost near the restaurant, turn right onto a dirt road that continues uphill until you reach a small hill called Collalto, with a beautiful, well-maintained house. The location is particularly scenic, with a view spanning the entire Apennine ridge, from Monte Nerone to Monte Catria, passing through Montes Petrano, Tenetra, and Acuto. Here, the road ends, and you have no choice but to head back, finally descending, to the previous intersection.
Turn right past the restaurant and continue downhill to reach a bridge over the small Fossa Buia stream. The bridge, when I crossed it, was still under construction and replaces the previous one, destroyed by the major flood of September 15, 2022, which caused enormous damage throughout the Catria area, particularly in Cantiano.
At the next intersection, turn left for a short stretch that passes in front of a cannery that produces delicious products made from black cherries and other fruits. After crossing the Burano River, the dirt road connects to the old Flaminia road near the little church of San Rocco. This short stretch is shared with the WLK15 San Rocco route.
Now, turn left to return to Cantiano. The road is paved, but with little traffic, and runs parallel to the Burano River. From the bridge crossing the river, you can admire the colorful houses of Via Borgo San Marco, the road that leads to the center of town for those coming from the south.
Notable places
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