Val di Ranco
Places
Hike·Moderate·Sporty·Popular

Val di Ranco

Umbria

Reliable thermals rising off Monte Cucco's slopes have made this valley a magnet for hang-glider and paraglider pilots since the sport's early days in Italy, and colorful wings are a common sight overhead on calm days. The valley floor and surrounding karst plateau are pitted with sinkholes connecting to the mountain's vast cave system below. Beech forest lines the upper slopes.

Duration
3 hours
Distance
7 km
Elevation
+400 m
Best season
May – September

Highlights

  • Premier hang-gliding launch site
  • Karst sinkholes over the cave system below
  • Beech-forested upper slopes

With your dog

Open grassy slopes popular with paragliders; dogs off-leash fine away from launch areas.