Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park – Lazio: bears, beech forests and high-altitude silence in the heart of the Apennines. The Lazio side of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park extends into the province of Frosinone, between the municipalities of Pescosolido, Picinisco, San Donato Val di Comino and Alvito. An area of rare beauty, where the mountains of the central Apennines guard centuries-old forests, protected animals and stone villages immersed in quiet. 🌳 Ancient beech forests and unspoilt landscapes: The beech forests of the Meta Mountains are among the oldest in Europe, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The woods, dense and silent, alternate with grassy valleys, with suspended plateaus, gorges and streams that flow between the rocks. An intact ecosystem, shaped by time and protected by the hand of man. 👉 Tip: Reach the Val di Canneto from Settefrati: a path through water, woods and spirituality that leads to the Sanctuary of the Black Madonna. 🐻 Apennine fauna and rare presences: This park is one of the few places in Italy where you can still spot the Marsican brown bear, the symbol of the area. But deer, Apennine wolves, golden eagles, wild cats and an extraordinary variety of birds, reptiles and amphibians also live there. A living heritage to be protected with respect and attention. 👉 Tip: Walk the Lago Vivo Nature Trail with a guide: with a little luck, you might find bear tracks or observe grazing deer. ⛰️ Paths between ridges and deep woods: The Lazio territory of the park offers numerous hiking routes: from simple walks in the woods to panoramic trekking at high altitude. Monte Meta, Passo dei Monaci, the Forca Resuni Refuge are popular destinations for lovers of the mountains and wild nature. 👉 Tip: Start from Prati di Mezzo, above Picinisco, for a climb towards Monte Marrone: the view of the entire park is vast and surprising. 🏘️ Silent villages and mountain life: The villages that are part of the Lazio side retain an authentic atmosphere: stone alleys, views of the valleys, ancient traditions and warm hospitality. In San Donato Val di Comino and Alvito, time seems to slow down among castles, squares and terraces overlooking nature. 👉 Tip: After a hike, stop at the trattoria to taste local products: goat caciotta, mountain lentils and gnocchi with sheep sauce. 🌿 A park to be experienced slowly: The National Park is a place to be crossed with respect: each path tells of a delicate balance between man and nature, every encounter with fauna is a rare privilege. Lazio, in this context, retains one of its wildest and most authentic souls. 👉 Tip: Consult the park's visitor centers to receive updated maps, book guided excursions or participate in educational and nature activities. In the woods of the National Park, the air is fresher, the silence deeper, the gaze wider. Here nature is still the master, and the journey becomes listening.