Croce di Sassopiano

Upon reaching the Eremo delle Carceri, pass the free parking area and continue uphill to Strada del Subasio. 

Afterward, you’ll pass a large area on the right, opening up into a hairpin and continue ascending until, at the grazing area, you’ll spot the long Parcheggio degli Stazzi on the right, where parking is allowed. This area, with a large meadow in front, is marked by the sculpture Il Fuoco, inspired by the Canticle of the Creatures.

If using a GPS, you can view the route by clicking here

Once you’ve parked, walk up the road for about 100 meters, then turn right onto the evident track path.

A few dozen meters before the Vallonica refuge, on the right, you’ll find Trail 350, which ascends from the Hermitage. 

After passing the building, continue up to an abandoned water spring, and then follow the winding trail through thorny bushes of wild rose (muddy after prolonged rain), until reaching the pass where you can already see the Cross, just a few hundred meters away.

Once you reach the Cross, it’s important to be extremely cautious: it is positioned on a rocky ledge, and in the case of serious distraction, dizziness, or sudden illness, there is the risk of falling. 

The safest way to enjoy the incredible panorama is by sitting on the limestone steps behind the Cross, where you’ll also find a visitor’s book to complete and return to its metal container.

This simple hike offers everyone the chance to reach the Croce di Sassopiano, which, along with Assisi, dominates the entire Umbrian Spoletan Valley. 

On good winter days, in addition to the stunning aerial view of Assisi, you can even glimpse Lake Trasimeno and Mount Amiata.

Along the way, you’ll pass an old Forest Service building, currently being renovated, but its roof still provides temporary shelter in case of bad weather.

Given its proximity, the hike can easily be combined with a visit to the Eremo delle Carceri 

Due to its unique layout, it is very rare to see Assisi from above.