Abruzzo is home to 80 hermitages, tucked away in caves and forests many of which date back to the 10th century, like Casale San Nicola’s Hermitage (TE) which has a picnic table with an extraordinary view of the Corno Grande, the Apennines’ highest peak.

To reach the hermitage you follow a quiet mule track through an ancient beech forest from the village’s waterfall.   Casale San Nicola has one of Abruzzo’s most original open-air art exhibitions, so take a little time to wander around before setting off!

The walk is well signposted up to the hermitage.  The track is a little steep in parts up to the 1100 metres above sea level location, but I managed without sticks even when hitting the snowline. The sound of the rushing Mavone River as it makes its way down the mountainside, helps you relax as you walk.  The location of the hermitage is on Prato dei Fiori so expect an abundant wild floral show in Spring and being that it is in the middle of an ancient beech forest, a striking scene in Autumn.

Courtesy of Abruzzo Turismo

Rather than standing out, the hermitage is meant to disappear into its surroundings, nestled among centuries-old beech trees. The peaceful atmosphere and secluded location make it a perfect stop for hikers looking for a quiet place to rest or have a picnic with panoramic views. Although it is a simple structure, the Eremo di San Nicola carries a deep sense of history and resilience, having been restored throughout history, the latest just after World War II.  There are a few remains of the original, small monastery that stood next to the hermitage, its income was achieved mostly from its large flock of sheep and remained open until 1652 when the Pope shut down these small monasteries.

The hike and the hermitage’s charm lies in its unpretentiousness, offering visitors a chance to shake off the world’s problems and connect with nature and the past.  Sadly unless arranged the hermitage remains closed, but for those inclined and would like to see how locals use and celebrate Saint Nicholas and the hermitage, you can join them the Sunday after Pentecost when mass is celebrated here.  Most of us won’t do that so here is a sneaky view courtesy of Paesi Teramana.

Photo courtesy of Paesi Teramana

The village has a small family-run hotel with a small bar and restaurant to grab a coffee or beer after all that thirsty work or have a good, very affordable lunch afterwards, see our review here opposite where you can park your car before setting off on your hike.

Author: Sam Dunham

Sam is a very lucky midlife 'mamma' to A who is 13 and juggles working as a freelance SEO copywriter & teaches IGCSEs at Istituo Cristo Re in Rome. She is the founder of the Life In Abruzzo Cultural Association, co-founder of Let's Blog Abruzzo and 'English in the Woods' initiative.