Leaf

“Beauty is everywhere, you just need to know how to look for it.” These words by Pablo Picasso resonate with particular force when talking about Foglia, an enchanting corner of Italy where nature, history and tradition intertwine in a perfect embrace. In this article, we will immerse ourselves in a journey that reveals the magic of the Marmore Falls, will take us on a walk through the medieval villages of Rieti and invite us to explore the wonders of the Gran Sasso National Park.

In a current context in which the search for authentic and sustainable experiences is increasingly felt, Foglia presents itself as an ideal destination for those who want to discover unique places and fascinating stories. Through a tasting of local cuisine, we will delight ourselves with authentic flavors that tell the history of this area. Furthermore, we cannot forget the importance of hidden history: the ancient Via Salaria, which marked the passage of travelers and merchants, will reveal its charm to us.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, excursions in the Gran Sasso National Park will offer breathtaking views and unforgettable moments. Finally, we will venture into the secrets of underground Rieti, where the past is intertwined with the present in surprising ways.

With our gaze turned to the future, we will also discover sustainable tourism practices that will allow us to enjoy the beauty of Foglia while respecting the environment. Prepare to be inspired by local events and traditions, such as the feast of San Francesco in Rieti, which celebrate the culture of this land.

Let us therefore begin this journey together, in the heart of Foglia, where every step tells a story and every view is a work of art.

Discover the magic of the Marmore Falls

An unforgettable experience

I still remember the moment I heard the roar of the Marmore Falls for the first time. The fresh, humid air, the scent of the vegetation and the sun illuminating the drops of water created an enchanting atmosphere. This natural spectacle, located a few kilometers from Foglia, is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, with a drop of 165 metres.

Practical information

To visit it, you can easily arrive by car or public transport from Rieti. Times vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to check the official website Cascate delle Marmore for updated details. Entrance costs around 10 euros, and children under 6 enter for free.

An insider tip

A little secret? Visit the waterfall early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the golden sunlight, which makes the water sparkle.

Cultural impact

The waterfall has inspired poets and artists over the centuries, becoming a symbol of the natural beauty of the area. Its presence also has a positive economic impact for the local community, thanks to tourism.

Sustainability

On your trip, consider bringing a reusable water bottle with you to reduce plastic. The area promotes sustainable tourism practices, and many locals are committed to preserving the environment.

A unique activity

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, try booking a guided kayak tour along the Velino River, which will take you to discover hidden corners of the waterfall.

Final reflection

As one local told me: “The waterfall is our beating heart, a place where nature tells its stories.” I invite you to reflect on how natural beauty can connect you with local culture and community. Will you be ready to discover this corner of paradise?

Walk through the medieval villages of Rieti

A personal experience

I vividly remember the moment I set foot in the village of Cittaducale. The narrow cobbled streets and stone houses seemed to tell stories of ancient times, while the scent of fresh bread coming out of a local bakery enveloped the air. This is just one of the many medieval villages surrounding Rieti, each with its own charm and history.

Practical information

To explore the medieval villages, you can start from Rieti, easily reachable by train or car. Trains leave regularly from Rome, and the ticket costs around €5-€10. Once in Rieti, I recommend renting a bicycle to reach places like Fara in Sabina and Cittaducale, immersed in the beauty of the Lazio countryside.

An insider tip

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the local market, which is held every Wednesday in Piazza San Rufo. Here you can discover artisanal products and savor local culinary specialties.

Culture and social impact

These villages are not just places to visit, but guardians of centuries-old traditions and of a community that is committed to enhancing cultural heritage. Local festivals, such as the Festa della Madonna della Strada, carry forward the culture and sense of belonging.

Sustainable tourism

During your visit, consider supporting local activities: buy typical products and participate in artisan workshops. In this way, you will help preserve the authenticity of these places.

Local quote

As an inhabitant of Rieti told me: “Every stone here has a story to tell, you just need to stop and listen to it.”

Final reflection

Have you ever thought about how history can be experienced through the streets of a small village? It could be an opportunity to discover an aspect of Rieti that goes beyond the tourist guides.

Unforgettable excursions in the Gran Sasso National Park

An experience to remember

The first time I set foot in the Gran Sasso National Park, the fresh, pine-scented wind welcomed me like an old friend. I remember walking the path that leads to Corno Grande, where the peaks seem to touch the sky and the silence is interrupted only by the singing of birds. It is a place where nature manifests itself in all its magnificence.

Practical information

To explore these wonders, the Park is easily reachable from Foglia, with a car that takes about an hour. The most famous routes, such as the Sentiero della Cima, are open all year round, but spring and summer offer ideal conditions for hiking. Costs are affordable, with free parking at access points. Don’t forget to check the park’s official website for updates on events and itineraries.

An insider tip

If you want an authentic experience, I recommend you visit the Avello Valley, a lesser-known corner of the park, where it is possible to spot deer and eagles in the wild, away from the crowds.

Cultural impact

Gran Sasso is not just a paradise for nature lovers; it is also the beating heart of local traditions and stories of shepherds who live in symbiosis with the landscape. These traditions are an integral part of Abruzzo culture, transmitted from generation to generation.

Sustainability and community

To help, choose marked trails and respect the environment. Sustainable tourism practices help preserve natural beauty and support local communities.

Reflecting

When you find yourself among the majestic peaks, ask yourself: how can nature shape not only the landscape, but also our spirit?

Local cuisine tasting: authentic flavors of Foglia

A vivid experience

Imagine sitting at the table, surrounded by friends and family, while the scent of freshly baked porchetta invades the air, mixing with the fresh hints of aromatic herbs. This is what I felt during a dinner in a typical trattoria in Foglia. Each bite told stories of culinary traditions passed down from generation to generation, an experience that made the my unforgettable visit.

Practical information

Foglia is easily reachable from Rieti in about 20 minutes by car. I recommend visiting on weekends, when many local restaurants offer special menus. Prices for a full meal vary, but are generally around 25-35 euros per person. For more details on the restaurants, you can consult the official website of the municipality of Rieti.

An insider tip

A well-kept secret is the farmers market held every Saturday morning, where local farmers sell their fresh produce. Here you can taste artisanal cheeses and cured meats that you won’t find in restaurants.

Cultural impact

Foglia’s cuisine is not just food; it is a cultural heritage. Each dish is a reflection of local history, rural traditions and the love for the land, which has united generations of Rieti people.

Sustainable tourism practices

Supporting restaurants that use local ingredients is a way to positively contribute to the community. By opting for dishes made from seasonal products, you not only taste the best of the cuisine, but you also help the local economy.

An experience not to be missed

Don’t miss the opportunity to take part in a cooking class with a local chef. Learning to prepare typical dishes is a unique way to connect with the culture of Foglia.

Final reflection

What does discovering a new destination through food mean to you? Foglia’s cuisine is a gateway to the history and culture of this fascinating area of ​​Italy.

Hidden history: the ancient Via Salaria and its charm

A journey through time

During my recent visit to Foglia, I had the opportunity to walk along some stretches of the ancient Via Salaria, a thousand-year-old route that once served as an important commercial artery for salt. Walking along this path, I could imagine the caravans of merchants and travelers passing through it, and the echo of their footsteps still seems to resonate in the hills.

Practical information

The Via Salaria is easily accessible from Foglia and winds through evocative landscapes, between woods and ancient villages. It is advisable to visit the Museum of the Via Salaria in Rieti, where you can learn more about the history and importance of this street. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with an entrance fee of around 5 euros. To get there, you can use the local bus from Foglia, which takes about 30 minutes.

An insider tip

A little secret: don’t limit yourself to the most popular sections of the Via Salaria. Explore the side streets that branch off the main path; here you will find hidden corners and breathtaking views that seem untouched by time.

Cultural impact

The Via Salaria is not just an ancient route: it is the symbol of a profound cultural connection between local communities, influencing traditions and lifestyles. This common history continues to unite the inhabitants of Foglia and Rieti.

Sustainability and community

Walking along the Via Salaria is also a way to practice sustainable tourism. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and support small local shops, thus contributing to the community’s economy.

A unique experience

I recommend you take part in one of the walks organized by the local inhabitants, where you can learn fascinating anecdotes about the Via Salaria and its history.

Final reflection

Walking along this ancient path, one may ask: how much of our past continues to influence our present? The Via Salaria is an invitation to reflect on how stories and traditions are intertwined in the daily life of Foglia and its inhabitants.

Rieti underground: explore the hidden secrets of the city

A thrilling experience

I vividly remember the moment I crossed the threshold of an ancient underground tunnel in Rieti, illuminated only by a dim torch. The echo of my footsteps resonated as I discovered forgotten frescoes and murals that told stories of a fascinating past. This experience made me understand how the city is a labyrinth of secrets, kept beneath the surface.

Practical information

To explore underground Rieti, I recommend you contact Pro Loco Rieti for guided tours, available in different languages. Tours generally depart every Saturday and Sunday; the cost is approximately €10 per person. You can reach Rieti by train from Rome in under two hours, and the city center is easily walkable.

An insider tip

A little-known secret? Don’t limit yourself to the main tunnels; try to find access to the basement of the ancient Church of San Francesco, where you may discover a fascinating crypt.

Community impact

These spaces are not just tourist attractions; they represent the deep bond between the people of Rieti and their history. The valorization of these underground areas has contributed to a renewed interest in local culture.

Sustainable practices

By visiting underground Rieti, you will be able to contribute to sustainable tourism, supporting local activities and the conservation of these historic sites.

An unforgettable experience

Imagine walking in these silent spaces, where the fresh, humid air envelops you, and every corner tells a fragment of history.

A reflection

How does your perception of a city change when you discover what lies beneath its feet? I invite you to consider the value of the invisible stories that every place brings with it.

Sustainable tourism in Foglia: a responsible journey

A personal experience

I still remember the fresh scent of the forest as I walked along the green paths of Foglia, surrounded by centuries-old trees and the singing of birds. This corner of Rieti is not only a natural paradise, but an example of how tourism can be practiced in a sustainable way. Here, every step is a conscious choice, and every visit helps to preserve the beauty of this area.

Practical information

Foglia is easily reachable from Rieti, with a short drive of around 20 minutes. The trails are well marked and suitable for everyone, from beginners to expert hikers. It is best to visit in the spring or autumn months, when the weather is ideal for hiking. For information on events and activities, consult the website of the Municipality of Rieti.

An insider tip

For an authentic experience, try taking part in one of the trail cleaning days organized by local associations. Not only will you contribute to environmental conservation, but you will also have the opportunity to meet residents who are passionate about their land.

Cultural and social impact

Sustainable tourism in Foglia is not just an environmental issue; it is a way to strengthen the bond between the community and the territory. Eco-friendly practices promote a collective consciousness that unites inhabitants and visitors in a single cause.

Final reflection

As one local says: “Every step we take into nature is a step towards respecting what surrounds us.” We invite you to reflect on how your travel choices can make a difference for places like Foglia. Are you ready to discover the beauty of responsible tourism?

Unique experience: taking part in the Rieti grape harvest

An immersion in the colors and scents of grapes

I still remember the first time I participated in a grape harvest in Foglia. The atmosphere was full of joy, with laughter and singing echoing through the golden vines. Walking between the rows, the air was thick with the scents of ripe grapes, and the warm late afternoon sun enveloped everything in a golden light. This is the essence of the Rieti grape harvest: an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the passion that i producers instill in their work.

Practical information

The harvest generally takes place between September and October, with events organized at various wineries in the area. I advise you to contact the Cantina Sociale di Rieti (info: cantinasocialerieti.it), where you can participate in harvest experiences and tastings. Prices vary from 20 to 50 euros per person, depending on the package chosen. To get there, you can take a bus from Rieti to Foglia, which leaves regularly during the day.

An insider tip

Don’t limit yourself to the harvest; ask to combine a visit to the vineyards with a lesson on how local wines are made. This will give you a deeper perspective on the process behind each bottle.

Culture and sustainability

The grape harvest is not just an agricultural event, but a community celebration. By participating, you help preserve this centuries-old tradition. Many producers adopt sustainable practices, reducing the use of pesticides and promoting organic farming.

A final reflection

In a fast-paced world, the harvest invites you to slow down and appreciate the moment. As one Foglia winemaker says: “Every bunch tells a story.” Have you ever wondered what story your next glass of Rieti wine will tell?

Relaxation and well-being in the natural spa of Cotilia

An unforgettable experience

The first time I set foot in the Cotilia Baths, I was greeted by the enveloping aroma of water vapor and the delicate sound of natural springs flowing. Nestled in a landscape of verdant hills, I felt the weight of daily life melt away as I immersed myself in the warm, mineral-rich waters. An experience that, I assure you, I will never forget.

Practical information

The spa is open all year round, with opening hours that vary depending on the season. Typically, they are open from 9:00 to 19:00. Entrance prices vary, but are around 20 euros for a day of access. To get there, you can take a bus from Rieti or drive along the scenic SP4.

An insider tip

If you want a real pampering, try the local clay treatment, famous for its therapeutic properties. It’s a little-known but incredibly rejuvenating experience.

Culture and social impact

The Cotilia Baths are not just a refuge for well-being; they are also an important historical landmark, dating back to Roman times. The thermal waters have always attracted visitors, contributing to the local economy and creating a deep bond between the community and the territory.

Sustainable tourism practices

Visiting the spa is also an opportunity to contribute to sustainable practices. Many establishments promote the use of natural and local products, thus reducing environmental impact.

An experience not to be missed

Don’t just relax; also try a walk in the surrounding paths, where nature is uncontaminated and the view is breathtaking.

A local perspective

As a local says: “The spa is our treasure, a corner of peace that shares the stories of generations.”

Final reflection

What better way to connect with a place than through its healing waters? The Cotilia Baths are an invitation to slow down and discover the beating heart of Foglia. What do you expect to find in this corner of well-being?

Events and Traditions: The Feast of St. Francis in Rieti

A personal experience

I vividly remember the moment when, walking through the cobbled streets of Foglia, I was surprised by the melodious sounds of an approaching band. It was the day of the Feast of Saint Francis, a celebration that brings the community together in a riot of colours, songs and flavours. The streets come alive with stalls offering typical products, while the scent of sweets and local dishes invades the air, creating a magical and festive atmosphere.

Practical information

The Feast of San Francesco generally takes place on the first weekend of October. It is advisable to check the official website of the Municipality of Rieti for specific times and details. Entry to events is free, but some activities may have minimal costs. Reaching Foglia is simple, thanks to frequent connections from Rieti.

An insider tip

A trick for true connoisseurs? Arrive early to attend the solemn mass in the local church, where the community gathers in an intimate and spiritual atmosphere.

The cultural impact

This festival is not just a religious event, but a moment of togetherness for the community, celebrating centuries-old traditions and strengthening social bonds. It is an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in local culture and discover the true essence of Foglia.

Sustainable tourism

In keeping with tradition, visitors are encouraged to use public transport to arrive, thus helping to reduce the environmental impact.

A local perspective

As a resident said: “The Feast of St. Francis is not just a celebration, it is our soul that manifests itself.”

Final reflection

Have you ever attended a party that made you feel part of a community? The Feast of San Francesco in Rieti is an opportunity to discover the warmth and hospitality of Foglia.