The route follows the most famous ridge in the National Park to ascend Monte Sibilla, the 2173 metre high peak which gives the Park its name. Along the way you enjoy splendid panoramas, looking into the Tenna and Aso valleys, as well as towards Monte Vettore, or out over Le Marche to the sea.

Although Monte Sibilla is not the highest peak in the Park, it lends its name to the mountain range because of its association with ‘The Sibyl’, a fabled witch, prophet, earth mother and wise woman figure, whose local myth stretches back to pre-roman times. A small collapsed cave, Grotto delle Fate, near the summit of the mountain, is said to be the entrance to her mystical realm.

This is a popular route and can get very busy during the peak summer season. At these times, the Rifugio Sibilla is often open and serving a good selection of refreshments.

Total Time: 4.5 hours
Total Ascent: 630 metres
Total Distance: 11 km

The paths used are steep in places, but are for the most part easy to follow. Those without a head for heights will find some of the narrower ridge sections intimidating, where careful footwork is often required. The effects of erosion on the two types of rock which form Monte Sibilla have left a distinctive ‘crown’, with the harder rock making up the highest 100 metres of the mountain. Where the rock types join, there is a five metre section requiring some climbing and scrambling in order to ascend onto the crown. Some agility and confidence are needed here, but even if you decide to turn back and re-trace your steps, you will find this an extremely rewarding route.

The Rifugio is reached via a long white road, which can be a little deteriorated in places, so care and time are needed in order to get to the start of the route. It’s also worth noting that these types of road can be closed by damage caused during winter.

The summit of Monte Sibilla, looking East out
over Le Marche (early May).

Questions or comments? Get in touch with us at:

tony@sibillini-walks.com