From the Banditaccia Necropolis to the canyons of the Via degli Inferi, all the way to the historic centre of Canale Monterano. An immersive journey through unique landscapes and Etruscan heritage.
This first stage of the Cammino degli Etruschi leads from Cerveteri to Canale Monterano, crossing a mosaic of environments that range from the tuff landscapes of Banditaccia to the river valleys of the Vaccina, and the woodlands of Bosco Macchia Grande.
The route begins in the historic centre of Cerveteri, dominated by Castello Ruspoli, and continues to the Banditaccia Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Etruscan burial areas, featuring monumental tombs carved into the tuff. Following the evocative Via degli Inferi, an ancient hypogean route, the trail descends towards the Vaccina River, where it enters a shaded landscape with spectacular waterfalls such as the Cascata dell’Arenile and the Cascata dell’Ospitaletto.
After crossing the Ponte degli Austriaci, the path takes on a more rural character, passing through cultivated fields and olive groves before reaching the Bosco Macchia Grande di Manziana, a majestic oak forest that marks the entrance to a biodiversity-rich environment. The itinerary then continues to the Parco di Poggio della Solfatara, an area characterised by ancient geothermal emissions and sulphur clearings, remnants of past volcanic activity.
The final stretch leads to Canale Monterano, a historic village nestled in the Lazio hills and gateway to ancient Monterano, a fascinating abandoned city steeped in history.
A moderately challenging route, ideal for hikers who love nature, history and archaeology, offering an immersive experience in the wonders of northern Lazio.
A journey through history and nature: don’t miss the ruins of Monterano at sunset, when the golden light enhances the charm of the abandoned village.
