Explore the natural beauty of the Monti Prenestini region with stops to eat and see local points of interest in Capranica Prenestina and Guadagnolo.
After breakfast, head to Guadagnolo, the highest inhabited town in the region, for a guided hike back down to Capranica Prenestina with a local CAI member. Below the stunning rock face favored by both peregrine falcons and rock climbers, you’ll pass through a mosaic of beech forest and several grassland habitats, notable for their diversity of orchid species and the return of the Appenine wolf in recent years.
Settle in for lunch at the Taverna Hieronymus in Capranica Prenestina, followed up with gelato from Bar il Glicino while you explore the historic town center and take in the panoramic views from the top of the hill.
In town, stop by either the recently renovated Naturalistic museum, with interactive dioramas showcasing the region’s habitats, or the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains from the dome of Bramante.
Head back up to Guadagnolo for the rest of the day, starting at the monastery of the Santuario Madonna della Mentorella. Originally established by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, the grounds encompass a small 17th century chapel with beautiful frescoes and the cave where Saint Benedict of Norcia, the patron saint of Europe and founder of western monasticism, lived for two years. More recently, this site gained notoriety as as favorite destination of Pope John Paul II, something local residents are enormously proud of.
Finish your day with dinner and drinks at Ristorante da Peppe, which features dishes incorporating local products, including several kinds of cheese, sausage, and porcini mushrooms.
Head up to the terrace around the Christ the Redeemer statue to admire golden-hour views of the surrounding hillsides with Rocca di Cave and Castel San Pietro Romano in the distance. Scramble up the remains of the lightning-blasted monument as the sun sinks below the horizon behind Rome far below you.
