Explore · Territory

The territory between Lazio and Abruzzo

A 1,538-meter pass in the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park, on the border between San Donato Val di Comino and Opi: border history, beech forests, and wildlife.

Discover the trails

Isolated beech tree on a grassy slope, with the valley and ridge in the background

Share 1,538 m

1,538 m Pass altitude On the border between Lazio and Abruzzo

1923 Birth of the Park With the Park comes tourism

1860–1870 Brigandage Francesco Cedrone's band

1,865 m Serra Traversa Summit overlooking the Comino Valley

History

A border between two states

The pass marked the border between the Papal State and the Kingdom of Naples and was crossed by shepherds, bandits and traders.

After the unification of Italy, between 1860 and 1870, the area was a site of banditry, with Francesco Cedrone's gang. In 1923, the Park was established, and with it, tourism.

High-altitude valley with the pass road and a bridge, sunset light

Flora and fauna

Beech forests, oak forests and the Marsican brown bear

Beech forests dominate. Between 800 and 1,200 meters, Turkey oak groves prevail, mixed with maples, hornbeams, and crab apple trees.

Among the symbolic animals are the Marsican brown bear and the Apennine wolf.

Road in the beech forest with autumn light and leaves on the edge

Outdoor activities

The pass in every season

Beech forest with sunbeams between the trunks, in autumn

Trekking

Itineraries through woods and clearings, for every preparation.

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Cyclist with road bike on a rock top, under a cloudy sky

Mountain biking

Trails and climbs, even with an e-bike.

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Hang glider flying over a mountain meadow with a take-off flag

Paragliding and hang gliding

Favorable thermals and takeoff near the pass.

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Apennine ridges with snow in spring and blue skies

Ski touring and snowshoeing

In winter, with heavy snowfall.

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Points of interest

Seven places not to be missed

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Path in a beech valley with blue sky and mountains in the distance

Narrow passage between rock walls at the German Rock

Horses grazing on a high-altitude meadow in front of an autumnal beech forest.

Beech Forest of Forca d'Acero Beech forest with trails, at its best in autumn.

Cave of the Brigands Cave along a path, used as a refuge in the 19th century.

Macchiarvana Short trail among the beech trees to the clearing, suitable for families.

Serra Traversa Hike from the road; summit at 1,865 m with views of the Abruzzo peaks and the Comino Valley.

Cold Valley Ring Loop from the Wolf Refuge through the beech forest.

Serra delle Gravare It starts near the pass, crosses the Inguagnera Valley and climbs to the ridge with views of Val Fondillo.

German Rock Military post dug into the rock during the Second World War to monitor the valley floor.

Curiosity

Six things to know about Forca d'Acero

Origin of the name

It derives from the conformation of the pitch and from the specimens of Acer pseudoplatanus.

Historical border

Between the Papal State and the Kingdom of Naples, traveled by shepherds, bandits and traders.

Second World War

Theater of German and partisan operations, with remains of positions and trenches.

Foliage

The road is among the most colorful in Italy, especially in October and November.

Climate

Among the coldest points in Lazio, with heavy snowfall in winter.

Night sky

Far from light pollution, it is suitable for observing the stars and the Milky Way.

Continue the exploration

Other experiences on the pass

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Typical cuisine dish with red wine and aromatic herbs on a wooden table

Taste

Restaurants

Seven partner locations, one on the pass and six in San Donato.

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Room with double bed, glass of wine and sweets on the table

Stay

Accommodations

Two vacation homes and a resort near the pass, with partner discounts.

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A hairpin bend on the pass road between yellow beech trees and leaves on the ground

Fall

The foliage

Maple and beech trees change color between October and November.

Discover the foliage →

Plan your visit

Everything you need before leaving

Week by week

The Foliage Tracker

When does the forest change, at what altitude?.

Open the tracker →

SR509 · A1

Reach the pass

By car, train, bus, or plane.

How to get there →

6 webcam

Watch the pass live

Snow, clouds and temperature before leaving.

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1,538 m

History, flora and fauna

The territory between Lazio and Abruzzo.

Discover the territory →

Partner

Who welcomes you and accompanies you

ITALIAN ALPINE CLUB SAN DONATO VAL DI COMINO

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