Classification of the itineraries depending on their difficulty

RECOMMENDATIONS AND SAFETY

25 years have now passed since I first started visiting the Lepini mountains and even now I am amazed at so much beauty but above all I am amazed how, still to this day, these mountains are still wild. I find that these mountains, apart from glaciers and large rock faces, have nothing to envy the more famous mountain groups in Italy, on the contrary, here you also have the sea!!! Not only, if we compare the paths of the Lepini mountains and the ones of Circeo to the majority of normal alpine paths, it is possible to notice how the latter are a lot more “tamed” compared to the former. For this reason one must never underestimate these mountains since they may offer unpleasant surprises, due to the unexpected length of the trails, to the almost absent tracks, to faded or rare sign posting, to the surprising vegetation and the underestimation of the itinerary to be tackled. But for this same reason, it is possible to discover stellar sensations thanks to uncontaminated nature, walking in silence on these faint tracks becomes a real and proper dynamic meditation. In any case, roaming these areas means heading into wild and solitary corners of nature where a few dangers are hidden and are unknown to many. One above all is the massive concentration of underground cavities which for the majority of the times have a well like

A break at Colle Trevi (© Funaro) 

entrance (ousi) and are unmarked. On Circeo instead, areal ridges reign supreme, overlooking the rock faces and the impenetrable Mediterranean bush. Therefore it is very important to watch where the track goes and where you put your feet. Like all mountains, it is important to remember, even if at a relatively low altitude, the weather can change quickly putting any single hiker in danger. Therefore as well as checking the weather forecast, it is important to bring indispensable clothing for any eventual thunderstorm or a sudden drop in temperature. It is also important to realise that many water springs are dry, especially during periods of drought or intense cold. In addition, a careful evaluation of the itinerary and a correct reading of the map (recommended, if needed, to get acquainted with a bit of topography) can make everything all the more pleasant and relaxing. The GPS cannot and must not substitute the use of a paper map but above all cannot replace experience, caution and common sense; also it is important to know that the GPS tracks of the itineraries described here are not always very precise, but they vary from area to area depending on the quality of the satellite’s signal. I would like to remind you that the majority of the mountain huts on the Lepini mountains do not have a hut warden and often are devoid of many comforts (water…), some are not fit to live in (or almost) and others, are shut and you need to book to retrieve the keys; while on Circeo they are absent (maybe, shortly a Rifugio Marino on the island of Zannone will be built). There aren’t any very dangerous animals but it is still important to be careful of some, such as wild dogs, wild boars, wolves and vipers. Other “large” animals which can be easily encountered on these mountains are: fox, badgers, fallow deer, horses, cows, sheep, goats and hares (without mentioning the immense number of birds, birds of prey and small mammals). As well as these, when it is hot, there is a large concentration of flies and horse flies, I recommend to always bring (except for the winter season) an insect repellent. In the areas frequented by animals (especially on the island of Zannone) it is not difficult to encounter the dreaded ticks. During November, December and January, in many areas there is another annoying and more important danger for hikers and that is the hunting season of wild boar (find out before hand, depending on the Lazio hunting calendar and the areas assigned to the hunters).

GENERAL RULES FOR HIKING

- Always choose itineraries according to your physical and technical abilities, adequately documenting yourself on the area you will visit. If you walk in a group aim for the duration based on the slowest hikers of the group. Always study alternative itineraries. - Make sure you wear clothing and equipment which is appropriate for the itinerary chosen. Bring the necessary gear in case of an emergency in your back pack. -It is best not to go hiking in the mountains on your own, and if you do, tell someone your planned itinerary as well as an alternative itinerary. -Find out and evaluate the weather conditions, and during the excursion, monitor it all the time. Also avoid leaving the tracks. -When in doubt, head back. Often it is better to give up rather than risking the hidden danger of bad weather or wanting to overcome extreme distances or difficulties which are beyond your strength, ability and equipment. -Always bring your waste back down, and if possible, even what has been left behind by others. Respect flora, fauna and everything that surrounds you. Also respect the local traditions and cultures.

For all emergencies in the mountains or demanding areas or caves call 112 or the number (+39) 3486131300, or else eventually communicate by radio: Rete Radio Montana channel 8-16 vhf (we recommend you register on its website).