Etruscan Forest and Volcanic Springs

Enter the Underworld of Etruscan God Manth — Hike through Macchia Grande Oak Forest 🌳🔥

Join an expert, certified guide for a 5.5‑hour loop through the mystical Macchia Grande Oak Forest — once consecrated to Manth, the Etruscan god of the underworld. Explore ancient sacred sites, bubbling sulfur springs, and dramatic volcanic landscapes while learning the cultural, historical, and geological stories hidden in the trees.

Quick facts
- Duration: ~5.5 hours (includes briefing, short stops, and rest breaks)
- Distance / Difficulty: ~11 km, 128 m elevation gain — Easy to Medium (uneven terrain)
- Meeting point: Piazza Tommaso Tittoni, Manziana Canale‑Monterano (loop starts/ends here)
- Arrive: 15 minutes before departure
- Language: English
- Family friendly: suitable for families; children 14+ must be accompanied by an adult
- Guide: Professional guide registered with the Italian Association of Interpretive Nature Guides (AIGAE). Activity complies with EU legislation and Italian law no. 4/2003.

About the hike
- A Sacred Forest: Wander an ancient oak woodland once revered by the Etruscans — atmosphere, myths, and moss‑covered trunks.
- Natural Wonders: Visit protected sulfurous springs (Site of Community Importance under the EU Habitats Directive) and learn about their role in Etruscan and Roman ritual.
- Cultural & Geological Insight: Discover how mythology, human history, and volcanic geology intersect in this exceptional landscape.

What’s included
- Guided hike from and back to Piazza Tommaso Tittoni
- Stops at protected sulfur springs and key natural / historical points of interest
- Interpretive commentary (approx. 90% hiking, 10% explanation)
- Easy access to public transport (starts/ends near train station)

What to bring
Required
- Sturdy hiking boots
- At least 1.5 L water
- Outdoor‑appropriate clothing (layers)
- Backpack
- Packed food for dinner

Recommended
- Raincoat / windproof layer
- Sunscreen and hat
- Trail snacks
- Public transport tickets (if arriving by train/bus)

Optional
- Hiking poles
- Electrolytes
- Sunglasses

Important notes & rules
- Route and timing may be adjusted for weather, fallen trees, or safety reasons at the guide’s discretion.
- Transport, food, and entrance fees (if any) are NOT included.
- Please follow Leave No Trace principles: no littering, no cycling, and no smoking along the route.
- The hike involves uneven terrain; participants should be comfortable walking ~11 km with some inclines. Notify the guide of any medical conditions or concerns before departure.

Reserve your spot
Space is limited. Please RSVP to join — we’ll send meeting details and any last‑minute updates before the hike. Come ready to explore history, myth, and wild beauty in one unforgettable walk.