A descent into a wild valley
This loop begins high in Montefegatesi. It drops through quiet woodland to Ponte a Gaio, follows the visitor route into Orrido di Botri, then climbs back to the village.
The mountain views arrive near the start. The shaded valley and rocky gorge come later. Save some energy for the return, because most of the climbing waits until the second half.
Begin high in the mountains
Montefegatesi is a small medieval village above Bagni di Lucca. The route starts near its edge, already more than 800 metres above sea level.
Look back as the path leaves the village. The roofs of Montefegatesi sit against a wide line of mountain ridges. These are the broadest views of the walk.
The hard work comes later
You descend first and climb back later. Do not judge the whole walk by the easy opening kilometres.
Expect mountain paths, woodland tracks and a wet riverbed in the gorge. Roots, loose stones and slippery rock need care.
Use the GPX. Forest tracks can look alike and signs may not cover every turn on this exact loop.
The lowest point
The route reaches the area around Ponte a Gaio and Nido dell’Aquila. This is the visitor entrance to the Orrido di Botri nature reserve.
The GPX continues from here into the canyon and returns along the same stream bed. Expect cold water and wet, slippery rock. Only follow this part when the official visitor route is open.
Check the official website before leaving. The gorge is a seasonal, ticketed visit. Opening depends on the weather and water conditions. A helmet and suitable hiking shoes are required.
The second half
The lowest point is not the finish. The path now has to regain roughly 250 metres before you reach Montefegatesi again.
Take breaks in the shade and keep water for the climb. Once the trees begin to open, the village and the mountain views return.
Choose a dry day
Before you leave
Distance, elevation and recorded time come from Joost’s GPX activity. Information about Montefegatesi and the separate canyon visit comes from official visitor sources. Conditions can change, so check before leaving.
All three photographs were taken by Joost de Valk during this walk.
