Lepini Mountains – Lazio: among caves, beech forests and paths suspended between sky and sea. The Lepini Mountains extend in southern Lazio, between the provinces of Latina and Frosinone. They are part of the Lazio pre-Apennine ridge and are distinguished by their limestone reliefs, wooded valleys, rocky cliffs and proximity to the sea. It is a varied and fascinating territory, rich in intact landscapes, ancient villages and hidden archaeological sites. 🌄 A rugged and spectacular landscape: The highest peaks, such as Mount Semprevisa (1,536 m), offer extraordinary views ranging from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ernici Mountains. The slopes are characterized by outcropping rocks, karst plateaus, sinkholes and vertical walls, often beaten by the wind. An ancient mountain, shaped by time and still little frequented. 👉 Tip: Reach the top of Semprevisa from Bassiano or Pian della Faggeta: the hike is challenging but offers sweeping views and a deep sense of isolation. 🌳 Woods, caves and protected nature: The Lepini Mountains are covered with dense beech, holm oak and chestnut woods, which light up with intense colors in autumn. Among the rocks there are numerous karst caves, such as the Grotta di Selva Oscura and the famous Grotta di Collepardo. The entire area is protected by the Natural Park of the Ausoni Mountains and Lake Fondi. 👉 Tip: Walk the paths in the woods between Carpineto Romano and Pian della Faggeta: a shady itinerary, perfect even in summer. 🛕 Hermitages, abbeys and mountain spirituality: The Lepini are home to places of great spiritual value, surrounded by nature. These include the Abbey of Valvisciolo, the Sanctuary of the Crucifix in Bassiano, the Hermitage of Sant'Erasmo and the Monastery of Fossanova, a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic. These places tell of a mountain traveled for centuries by monks and hermits. 👉 Tip: Visit the Abbey of Fossanova at sunset: the ancient stones and the silence of the cloister restore a suspended and contemplative atmosphere. 🏘️ High-altitude villages and authentic traditions: At the foot of the mountains there are well-preserved medieval villages such as Carpineto Romano, Bassiano, Sermoneta, Maenza and Sezze. Stone houses, stairways, historic buildings and popular festivals tell of an identity that is still alive and rooted. 👉 Tip: In Bassiano, stop to taste the famous local prosciutto, also the protagonist of a dedicated festival. 🚶 ♀️ Paths, ridges and hiking routes: The Lepini Mountains offer routes for all levels: from simple walks in the woods to long ridge crossings. Many paths are marked by the CAI and allow you to explore the peaks, beech forests, karst sinkholes and panoramic areas overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea or the Sacco Valley. 👉 Tip: Take the Semprevisa–Capreo crossing: a challenging but rewarding hike, between high-altitude meadows and dizzying views. The Lepini Mountains are a silent and vertical mountain, where nature, rock and spirituality come together in an authentic and still little-explored landscape: a destination for those who love beauty off the beaten track.