This stage is not long, but it is challenging in terms of elevation gain, and will take you into the world of beech trees! But first, it is highly recommended, also because the trail passes close by, to stop and visit the Benedictine monasteries of Santa Scolastica and Sacro Speco. With a light spirit, the climb will be easier! Thus, climbing among these places of silence and reflection, we will gradually penetrate the splendid silence of the Simbruini Mountains.
The park trail marker that will accompany us to our destination is 653, and it is useful to have the precise hiking map of the area published by the park authority itself. After several kilometers on dirt roads that take us up and beyond the mixed forest, where the road ends, at a three-way intersection, take the trail that crosses to the left and enters the valley, leaving on the right the trail markers that lead, after a high and panoramic crossing of the right side of the Aniene Valley (681b), towards the village of Jenne.
Leaving the sunniest slopes behind, beech trees become the dominant tree species. Climbing steadily up the valley, you pass another fork on the right with paths leading to the meadows of Frassigno (681c). You will arrive at a junction between two valleys and continue along the left one, arriving at beautiful clearings alternating with dog roses and wild apple trees: you are now in the middle of the Valle delle Mele (Apple Valley).
Further on, there is another fork between official trails, and you continue straight uphill into the grassy watershed. This upper part is dominated by open spaces and, after crossing a more thermophilic forest with oak and maple trees, at another small beech forest, you will enter a dirt road that descends from Colle Rotoli. Following this road, you will arrive at your destination, in front of the Park Visitor Center, near the Monte Livata Ring.
