Places
Viewpoint·Moderate·Scenic·Hidden gem
Eremo dei Frati Bianchi, Cupramontana
Marche
Hidden in the wooded gorge of the Rio Grande below Cupramontana, the Eremo dei Frati Bianchi (or Grotte di San Marco) is a row of chapels and cells hewn into an overhanging cliff, reached by a stepped mule track through holm oak with the whole Esino valley of vineyards spread out behind.
Duration
2–3 hours
Distance
6 km
Elevation
+350 m
Best season
March – November
Parking · Free
Free parking near the signed trailhead below Cupramontana.
Water
The stream runs in the gorge; treat before drinking.
Highlights
- Chapels cut into an overhanging cliff
- Wooded gorge of the Rio Grande
- View over the Verdicchio vineyards
With your dog
Leashed dogs welcome on the mule track; some exposed rock steps near the hermitage.
