Castelnuovo and the medieval bridges

From the picturesque medieval village of Castelnuovo, which descends steeply in a maze of narrow streets and stairways, you rise again only to find yourself into chestnut groves, many of which are still fully operational and produce highly prized “marroni” chestnuts.

Paths and easy lanes lead to the bottom of the valley of the Pavone stream, where the landscape is gentle, green and bright and open to the amazing view of Castelnuovo standing above.

Descending a little further, you will start to smell the aroma and feel the dampness of the river and then you will hear it gurgling not far away until at last you will see the spectacular archway, which for centuries has towered over the watercourse.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to climb on it, due to the collapse of the embankments, but the view, wading through the cool waters of the stream, is enough to imbue you with the charming power of history. The surprises are not over: after a while, downstream, another bridge can be glimpsed, this time lower and wider, crossing the whole floodplain with many minor arches, to support an aqueduct transport system, proof of the many precious uses of water and the daring hydraulic engineering of ancient times.

Hiking difficulty scale

T - Tourist

Itineraries on small roads, mule tracks or easy paths, with clearly evident routes that do not pose uncertainties or problems of orientation. They generally take place below 2000 m and usually constitute access to mountain pastures or refuges. They require some knowledge of the mountain environment and physical preparation for walking.

E - Hiking

Routes that almost always turn on paths, or on traces of passage in various terrain (pastures, debris, stony ground), usually with signs. They require a certain sense of orientation, as well as a certain experience and knowledge of the mountainous territory, walking training, as well as appropriate footwear and equipment. Normally the difference in altitude is between 500 and 1000m.

EE - Expert hikers

Routes not always marked and which require a good ability to move on various mountain terrains. They can be paths or even faint traces that wind over rough or steep terrain, with steep and slippery slopes, scree and short snowfields that can be overcome without the use of climbing equipment. They need a good mountain experience, firm footing and good physical preparation. It is also necessary to have adequate equipment and equipment, as well as a good sense of direction. Normally the difference in height is greater than 1000m.

EEA - Expert hikers with mountaineering equipment

Routes that require the use of via ferrata equipment (lanyards, harness, heat sink, helmet, etc.). They can be equipped paths or real via ferratas. It is necessary to know how to use the technical equipment safely and have a certain habit of exposure and mountaineering terrain.

MTB difficulty scale

TC - Tourist

Route on dirt roads with a compact and smooth surface, suitable for vehicles.

BC - For cyclists with good technical skills

Route on very bumpy dirt roads or on mule tracks and paths with a rather bumpy but fairly smooth surface or compact but irregular, with some natural obstacles (eg rock steps or roots).

OC - For cyclists with excellent technical skills

As above but on very bumpy and / or very irregular paths, with significant presence of obstacles.

EC - Maximum level for the cycle excursionist

Path on very irregular paths, characterized by steps and obstacles in continuous succession, which require trial-type techniques.