Explore the natural beauty of the Monti Prenestini region with stops to eat and see local points of interest in Castel San Pietro Romano and Capranica Prenestina.
Jump start your second day at Al Cafè in Castel San Pietro Romano with a caffè macchiato and a ham and cheese “toast” before you head to the Forno Panificio Biscottificio Fiasco to learn how to make the local specialty, giglietto cookies.
The giglietto recipe has remained unchanged since the 17th century, when local bakers popularized these fleur-de-lis-shaped cookies made of flour, water, and eggs. Marvel at how dexterous the bakers are as they deftly twist the light-as-a-feather dough into beautiful swirls as you try and fail to do the same.
Next, head across the piazza to learn more about Castel San Pietro Romano’s other claim to fame: its history as a filming location in the 1950’s. Stop by the Museo Diffuso to start the self-guided tour around town.
Afterwards, refuel at the Trattoria del Giardino Panoramico di Dantimi Lucia, a spot popular with locals for its classic Italian dishes and beautiful views towards Rome.
Head to the other side of town and down the Italian Alpine Club trail which connects to the Strada Provinciale. The trail crosses through the Valle de Cannucette Natural Monument, one of the Monti Prenestini’s two EU-designated protected areas, on the way to Capranica Prenestina.
As you walk, notice the material legacy of human habitation- stone terraces, sunken roads, and still-functioning aqueducts. Descend into the shadowy depths of the forests, which culminate in a cascata adjacent to a stone bridge. As you cross the stream, look out for two species endemic to Italy: the Apennine yellow-bellied toad (Bombina pachypus) and the Northern Spectacled Salamander (Salamandrina perspicillata).
Climb the switchback trail back out of the valley on the other side and ascend into the hilltop grasslands. Greet livestock grazing in the adjacent pastures as you emerge at the working farm where the trail begins to pass through active agricultural land until you reach the outskirts of Capranica Prenestina.
For dinner, enjoy the benefits of being so close to local farms at either Agriturismo Nino or Le Cannucceta. Specialties change depending on the season, so make sure to take advantage of dishes highlighting fresh produce and locally produced cheeses.
Hot tip: In need of something sweet to celebrate the weekend? On summer evenings starting at 9:30, the forno sells cornetti, pastries with several flavors of cream filling.
