Etruscan Forest and Volcanic Springs

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

Explore the sacred Macchia Grande Oak Forest with a certified AIGAE guide. Walk ancient trails, visit sulfurous volcanic springs (a protected Site of Community Importance), and learn Etruscan and Roman stories tied to this dramatic landscape. Easy–medium loop, family-friendly, English-speaking.

Booking
Email info@natureofsal.com to reserve your spot

About this event
Join a guided 11 km loop through the majestic Macchia Grande Oak Forest, once consecrated to the Etruscan underworld god Manth. This hike blends natural wonder, geology, and ancient culture: dense oak stands, bubbling sulfur springs used in antiquity, and viewpoints that reveal why this place inspired awe and ritual.

- Duration: Approximately 5.5 hours (includes briefing, explanations, and rest breaks).
- Distance & difficulty: ~11 km, ~128 m elevation gain — Easy to Medium. Uneven terrain; comfortable walking fitness recommended.
- Activity balance: ~90% hiking, ~10% guided explanations and stops.
- Language: English.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for families. Children 14+ must be accompanied by an adult.
- Professional guide: Conducted by a certified guide registered with the Italian Association of Interpretive Nature Guides (AIGAE). This professional activity complies with EU legislation and Italian law no. 4/2003.
- Safety note: The itinerary and timing may be adjusted by the guide due to weather, fallen trees, or safety considerations.

Meeting & route
- Meet 15 minutes before the listed start time at Piazza Tommaso Tittoni, Manziana Canale-Monterano. Please arrive on time so we can depart promptly.
- The loop starts and finishes at Piazza Tommaso Tittoni — the trailhead is close to the train station for easy public-transport access.

What’s included
- Expert guided hike through the Etruscan Oak Forest.
- Visits to protected sulfur spring areas and other natural / historical points of interest.
- Local insights into Etruscan and Roman use of the landscape and the geology behind the springs.

Not included
- Transport to/from meeting point, personal meals and drinks, entrance fees (if any), and personal gear.

What to bring (must/have)
🟢 Required
- Sturdy hiking boots
- At least 1.5 L water
- Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing
- Backpack
- Packed food for dinner

🟡 Recommended
- Raincoat
- Sunscreen & hat
- Trail snacks
- Public transport tickets (if arriving by train/bus)

🟠 Optional
- Hiking poles
- Electrolytes
- Sunglasses

Rules & etiquette
- Respect protected areas: no littering, no cycling on the route, no smoking. Follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Please follow the guide’s instructions for safety and conservation.
- If you are unsure about fitness, medical conditions, or taking part with children, contact the organizer before RSVPing.

Who should come
- Hikers, expats and tourists who enjoy cultural nature walks, geology and ancient history; families with older children; anyone curious about Etruscan ritual landscapes and volcanic springs.

Logistics & cancellations
- The guide may modify or cancel the hike for safety or environmental reasons; refunds or rescheduling will follow Meetup/event organizer policy.
- For questions, accessibility needs, or to confirm meeting details, contact the organizer via the Meetup message function before the event.