Altipiani di Arcinazzo: Villa of Trajan and Trails through the Landscape

Altipiani di Arcinazzo combines Roman history with designated hiking and cycling routes. Those looking for a holiday apartment can choose between archaeological discoveries, short circular walks and longer stages. The key consideration is therefore which experiences should shape your trip: the Villa of Trajan, the landscape with its karst formations or active days on routes explored on foot, by bike and on horseback.

Roman History on the Plateaus

The Villa of Trajan was a hunting residence of Emperor Trajan dating from AD 98–117 and is located at an altitude of 850 m. The entrance is on the SR411, Via Sublacense, at kilometre 30.00, 00020 Arcinazzo Romano RM. In the archaeological area, the Antiquarium displays a collection of significant finds from the excavations, including architectural and decorative elements.

The development of the excavation site is particularly illustrative: during work that began in 1999, the substructures of a large garden bordered by porticoes were uncovered on the lower terrace. These include semicircular, stepped fountains made of white marble. This allows the visit to be connected with specific architectural details, rather than encountering the Roman past only through a name.

Hikes in Different Formats

The basin of Altipiani di Arcinazzo features karst formations shaped by rainwater erosion. A route from Altipiani di Arcinazzo at 841 m leads to the Arco di Trevi, an impressive Roman arch at 977 m that rises among the forests. Another route leads via the Arco di Trevi through the beech forests of the Vallone di Sant'Onofrio.

For a clearly defined day trip, the Altipiani di Arcinazzo–Guarcino stage is an interesting option. It is designated for hiking, cycling and horseback riding; the stage is listed as taking 4 hours and 30 minutes and covering 16.9 km. Those who prefer a shorter loop can choose the Passeggiata nel bosco alle falde del Monte Scalambra, an easy 7.7 km hike there and back. The Anello di Monte Altuino is designated as an easy 7.4 km circular hike.

For more ambitious plans, the Cammino delle Abbazie is divided into nine stages, each averaging 15 km, and is approximately 150 km long overall. Cyclists can also consider MTB Route 11, which climbs towards Altipiani di Arcinazzo. When planning your trip, you can allow time for short loops, schedule the 16.9 km stage as a longer tour or plan the Cammino delle Abbazie over several stages.

Which Base Suits Your Trip

If culture is the main focus, a holiday apartment is a good choice, allowing you to include a visit to the Villa of Trajan and the Antiquarium in your daily itinerary. For active days, on the other hand, the designated hikes, the stage to Guarcino and the route through the Vallone di Sant'Onofrio take centre stage. An additional connection is provided by a shuttle between Altipiani di Arcinazzo and the Campo Staffi ski resort. The Pro Loco promotes events and initiatives in the area and works to preserve its cultural, landscape and historical heritage.

If you would like to compare other destinations, here is a concise selection: Acuto, Ferentino, Pontecorvo, Fumone, Cervaro, Supino, Ausonia and Casalvieri.

For the higher-level travel overview: Frosinone.