Introduction: Monte Etra is a small rocky promontory with a very interesting profile (in fact a long ridge) that closes off the Monte Sirente massif on its gentle western side. Together with the Serra di Celano, Monte Etra sharply marks the edge of the famous Gole di Celano.
Route features: because the route is short, this itinerary is recommended for families with children or for hikers who want to keep in training.
Route description
At the no-entry sign you take the road that climbs towards the Sirente. This long and very comfortable gravel road leads up to 1800 metres with an extremely gentle gradient. After about three kilometres on foot, two bends, first left then right, bring you to the Bocchetta di Prato Popolo. Here the green meadows are an ideal place to stop with children.
The hike could even end here, although the second stretch of the route has no great difficulties. The view is pleasant over the Gole di Celano and the Serra di Celano, which is right in front of the Bocchetta di Prato Popolo. Near the saddle, on a green meadow, there are two wooden tables; from here you can clearly make out the ridge of Monte Etra.
This ridge is practically unbroken and climbs all the way to the summit. The traces of path are clear and it is practically impossible to get lost, except in a few very rare cases inside the wood where you need to pay attention to the waymarking. There are no big route-finding problems nor insurmountable technical difficulties. Just one small, slightly exposed passage calls for the use of your hands.
If you want to bring children, you need to be careful and hold their hands. The path winds partly through the wood and partly along stretches of open ridge with impressive views down into the Gole di Celano.
Variants and alternatives
The only possible variant of the route is the descent along the (very steep) grassy ridge that comes down to the road climbing up from Aielli. Following this road back, you return towards the Bocchetta di Prato Popolo.
Notes on effort and difficulty
Frequently asked questions
Is Monte Etra suitable for children?
Yes, the fact sheet gives it for the 8-10 age range. The physical effort is modest, with 520 metres of height gain and just one exposed passage that you get past without difficulty. The meadows of the Bocchetta di Prato Popolo are ideal for a break with children.
How long does the hike to Monte Etra from the Val d'Arano take?
About 4 hours and 15 minutes out and back. The first part follows a comfortable gravel road on a gentle gradient which, in about three kilometres, brings you to the Bocchetta di Prato Popolo, where you can also stop; from there you climb to the summit at 1818 metres.
