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When people think of hiking in Italy, they often think of the Dolomites, the Cinque Terre or the Amalfitana. There are mountain landscapes that are just as spectacular - but much less well-known.
These hikes are hidden between remote valleys, away from major roads and without cable car connections. Anyone travelling here will come across quaint villages, quiet plateaus, old shepherd's paths - and above all: hardly any other people. Those who set off into the country's hidden mountain landscapes will discover a different Italy: rougher, quieter, more unspoilt. And that's why it's so special.
1st Aspromonte - Calabria's wild side
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In the deep south of Italy, between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, lies a mountain range that is often overlooked: the Aspromonte. The mountains are densely forested, criss-crossed by gorges, waterfalls and high plateaus. The terrain is sometimes challenging, sometimes gentle - but almost always deserted.
In ancient times, the Aspromonte was considered a place of hermits, today it is part of a protected national park. On a clear day, the view from the summit of Montalto stretches as far as Sicily. Along the way, you will encounter old mule tracks, ruined monasteries and a juxtaposition of Greek, Arab and Norman influences - a reflection of Calabria's eventful history. The Aspromonte is a real surprise for hikers with a thirst for discovery.
More information on the official website
2nd Monti della Laga - Magical hiking
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Monti della Laga (Abruzzo/Latium/Marche) - Those in search of unspoilt nature will find what they are looking for in the Monti della Laga. The mountains lie on the border between three regions and are part of the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park - but are much less frequently visited than the better-known Gran Sasso itself.
Dense beech forests, moss-covered gorges, crystal-clear waterfalls and secluded high pastures characterise the landscape. The numerous waterfalls are particularly impressive in spring, when the meltwater cascades down the steep rocky gullies - including the Cascata della Morricana or the Prato Selva. Hiking trails are available, but are often poorly marked - ideal for experienced nature lovers who prefer solitude to comfort. If you are lucky, you will encounter more wild animals than people when you are out and about here.
More information on the official website
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3 Valle Maira - Alpine silence in Piedmont
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If you are looking for complete peace and quiet, you will find it in Valle Maira. The remote valley in the Cottian Alps is barely developed, almost untouched by tourism - and that is precisely what makes it so appealing. Here you will find forgotten stone villages such as Elva, where hardly anyone still lives, but where traces of old ways of life are still visible.
The valley offers spectacular gorges, plateaus with views of the Monviso and a network of high-altitude trails that are ideal for multi-day trekking tours. You can stop off at small hostels or rifugi, many of which are run by locals who deliberately live off the beaten track here. Those who are not afraid of solitude will find one of the most impressive alpine landscapes in Italy here.
More information on the official website
4th Monti Simbruini - the silent heart of Lazio
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Just an hour's drive east of Rome, a world begins that has little in common with the capital. The Monti Simbruini are a quiet, vast low mountain range between Lazio and Abruzzo, characterised by karst valleys, beech forests and lonely mountain pastures.
There are no cable cars here, no hotels with spas - just quaint villages like Cervara di Roma, whose houses are built against the rocks. Hiking trails lead through deep gorges, past springs, meadows and caves. Particularly rewarding: the stages of the Cammino dei Monti Simbruini, a long-distance hiking route that leads through the entire mountain range. Ideal for those who want to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind - and prefer to drink spring water instead of cappuccino.
More information on the official website
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5th Alpi Apuane - Tuscany, but different
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If you only think of rolling hills and cypresses when you think of Tuscany, you will be surprised in the Alpi Apuane. The mountains to the north-west of Lucca are steep and rocky - with rugged peaks, narrow gorges and breathtaking views as far as the sea. Marble has been quarried here for centuries - Michelangelo's favourite stone came from right here.
Today, the area is an Eldorado for hikers who are looking for alpine challenges, but not overcrowded paths. The tour to Monte Forato, with its natural rock arch, or to Monte Pania della Croce are among the highlights. The region has remained surprisingly quiet - although it can compete with any of Italy's better-known mountain regions.
