From Paggese to Piedicava – among villages, talking stones, and ancient mills

From the square of Paggese (447 m), take the road on the right, slightly downhill, passing by the Church of San Lorenzo. The narrow streets of the village hold the famous “Talking Stones”, ancient Latin inscriptions carved on portals and windows, telling the history and ingenuity of those who lived in these mountain houses.

Following the paved path, you reach a restored fountain, a place of rest and refreshment for hikers and residents. After about ten minutes of walking, you arrive at the first houses of Luco, under the imposing profile of Castel di Luco. Continue to the right, leaving behind the detour to the Monastery of Valledacqua, and the trail, always clearly visible, crosses cultivated fields and small rural clusters until reaching the hamlet of Piedicava.

A short descent leads to the Angelini Mill, still a testament to the farming work and life along the stream, now unusable after the earthquake but rich in memory. From here, you can continue towards Ponte d’Arli or ascend towards Cervara, continuing the exploration of the valley’s villages.

• Total length: 4.25 km

• Positive elevation gain: +196 m

• Negative elevation gain: -227 m

• Minimum elevation: 413 m

• Maximum elevation: 592 m

• Average travel time: approximately 1 h 15 min

• Difficulty: T/E (tourist–hiking)