Places
Hike·Moderate·Sporty·Hidden gem
Eremo di San Giovanni all'Orfento
Abruzzo
The most spectacular of the Majella hermitages: from Caramanico a path descends into the Orfento gorge, then climbs to a bare ledge where San Giovanni's cell clings to the wall, the last metres along a rock-cut walkway with grooves worn for hands and feet. Not for the exposure-averse.
Duration
3 hours
Distance
7 km
Elevation
+350 m
Best season
May – October
Parking · Free
Free parking at the Orfento visitor centre in Caramanico Terme.
Water
The Orfento stream at the canyon floor; treat before drinking.
Highlights
- Hermitage on an exposed cliff ledge
- Ancient rock-cut approach walkway
- Wild Orfento canyon setting
With your dog
Sure-footed dogs only — the final approach is a narrow ledge with carved handholds and drops.
