Departure from the small square in front of the church in Battaglia. Head north towards CAI trail 423, passing by Fonte delle Trocche (a natural spring). The trail continues past the ancient icehouses located below Monticchio, eventually reaching Pian dell’Oro, a plateau offering stunning views stretching from the Gran Sasso to the Adriatic coast.
From there, continue towards Monte Foltrone (1718 m); once at the summit, you’ll enjoy a 360° panoramic view: from Abruzzo to the southern Marche, with sights ranging from Monte Conero to the Majella. Behind you lies the entire Gran Sasso range, along with the Monti della Laga and the Sibillini Mountains.
The descent follows the “direttissima” (a direct route), then joins trail 420 leading to the tagliafuoco (trail 422). Turn right towards Battaglia to return to the starting point.
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