The Matese, the sacred mountain of the Samnites, the proud people who for years stood up to the Romans. The Matese, however, is also a mountain that divides and unites at the same time.
With its development it divides Italy exactly in half longitudinally, at its narrowest point to boot. This favors different climates and, consequently, diversity in the landscape between the east-facing and west-facing slopes. But the Matese also unites, with its territory straddling Molise and Campania and from its peaks, from which one can see, on clear days, both the Adriatic Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea with their islands.
It is a sensational experience to be able to enjoy boundless views all the way to the sea from about 2,000 meters above sea level. The peaks can be reached thanks to the many trails there, although it is always advisable to be accompanied by experienced guides. The best would be to visit them all, perhaps by crossing the Matese, about 45 km!
Without exaggerating, the main ones are:
Mount Miletto is the highest peak in the Matese and at 2050 m above sea level offers a privileged vantage point over Molise, Campania and beyond. Starting from the plateau of Campitello Matese located at 1450 m a.s.l., one has to deal with a 600-m elevation gain. At an altitude of 1850 m is the Rifugio del Caprio, the arrival site of one of the chairlifts. Taking this one, the route to the summit is really short but the views always wonderful.
Gallinola (1923 m a.s.l.), Matese’s second highest peak, is a unique experience from its feet. The wilderness and challenging ascent repay with a breathtaking panorama, allowing you to admire not only the Matese, but also Mutria and Miletto being almost in the middle between the two. It is the most fascinating peak: rugged, rocky, and capable of providing a real climbing sensation.
Mount Mutria (1823 m a.s.l.) Mutria is the third highest peak in the Matese and the highest in the Guardiaregia-Campochiaro WWF Oasis. Located between Molise and Campania, it offers spectacular trails leading to the summit. Departure from either Sella del Perrone or Bocca della Selva is recommended.. The trek is very pleasant and extremely scenic.
Are you ready for this adventure?