THE SOUTHERN WALK
The walking trail
The Cammino Retico Southern and Slow Tourism: An Exploration of Sustainability and Authenticity
In recent years, interest in slow tourism has grown significantly, underscoring a desire for more authentic and sustainable experiences. The Cammino Retico Southern, a trail that winds through the beautiful ridges of Monte Grappa in Italy, is an emblematic example of this movement.
The Philosophy of Slow Tourism
Slow tourism promotes a journey that goes beyond the mere visit of places, inviting travelers to immerse themselves deeply in the culture, traditions and nature of the places they pass through. In a world where mass tourism has often devastated natural environments and local communities, the Cammino Retico Southern is a necessary response: an invitation to rediscover the value of slowness and mindfulness in travel.
The Cammino Retico Southern: A Heritage to Discover
The Cammino Retico Southern extends for about 80 km, offering breathtaking views and a unique experience of connection with nature. It passes through historic villages, flowery meadows, alpine pastures and touches the Piave River, allowing walkers to explore not only the landscape but also the cultural heritage of the local communities. Each stage of the walk is an opportunity to taste traditional cuisine, participate in local festivals and learn the stories of the inhabitants.
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
One of the most relevant aspects of the Cammino Retico Southern is its commitment to sustainability. Walking this itinerary promotes responsible tourism, reducing carbon emissions and encouraging respect for the environment. Tourists are encouraged to reflect on their ecological impact and to choose travel practices that preserve the integrity of natural and cultural resources.
Economic Impact on Local Communities
By encouraging slow tourism, the Cammino Retico Southern also contributes to the local economy. Visitors, attracted by the beauty and authenticity of the route, support small businesses, accommodation facilities and artisanal activities along the way. This flow of responsible tourism generates direct benefits for communities, creating job opportunities and encouraging the preservation of local traditions.
Conclusion: A Future for Sustainable Tourism
The Cammino Retico Southern is not just a route to follow, but an inner journey towards self-discovery and the world around us. In an age dominated by frenzy, it offers a valid alternative, where time expands, and every step becomes a moment of contemplation. Celebrating slow tourism means embracing a more sustainable model of life, where the quality of the experience surpasses quantity and where every encounter with nature and local cultures becomes an opportunity for personal growth.
In this context, the Cammino Retico Southern positions itself as a beacon of hope and innovation, tracing a path towards a future in which tourism is synonymous with respect, awareness and authenticity.
FAQ
Do you want to organize the Cammino Retico Southern? Here are the answers to many of your questions, please read everything carefully.
What are the stage points?
A unique GPX track will be provided, each traveler will have the option to build their way at will, however we recommend:
- Quero “Quero Brewery” (Start Point)
- Alano di Piave “Pizzeria Molin” (Start Point)
- Castelcucco “Farmacia Di Castelcucco Del Dr. Abatianni Francesco & C.” (Start Point)
- Castelcucco “Hotel Montegrappa” (Start Point)
- Onigo/Covolo
Who is the Cammino Retico Southern dedicated to?
The route of the Cammino Retico Southern is dedicated to fans of a slow tourism away from the main roads with good physical capabilities: 68.8 km total, 2,510 m of positive and 2,520 m of negative elevation, However, they require good physical preparation.
What kind of terrain do you encounter on the route?
About 30% of the route runs on secondary paved roads and the rest is divided between dirt roads and trails in a purely plain environment and pre-Alps.
Is the route suitable for anyone? Is it suitable for families?
The route has some sections classified “hiking”, both from a physical and technical point of view, is suitable for those who are already trained and accustomed to a distance of several km. Not indicated for untrained family groups.
What kind of equipment can you use?
Given the type of route, it is advisable a good trekking shoe, technical clothing half mountain, always remembering that thermal changes are likely especially in points with high altitude, in spring and autumn months and after summer storms. In the summer months, especially in the lowland area, high temperatures are possible during the middle of the day.
Are there water sources along the route?
When purchasing, as soon as the starting kit is available, in the guide, it will be specified how to manage the personal water issue. In some stages it is preferable to leave with an escort.
It would be advisable to download the application “Fontanelle d’Italia” in your mobile phone, very useful for locating water sources nearby.
What are the best times to start the journey?
Careful consideration must be given to the choice of period in which to embark on the journey.
The snowy winter is not recommended by us, especially the part of the Camino facing north because there is a risk of finding icy roads and trails and cold temperatures in the few areas with altitude (few), but for the brave who will want to face it anyway, The effort and cold will be rewarded by priceless views.
The end of winter and spring see the awakening of nature, the thaw gives longer days with colder sunrises and sunsets but exceptional colors. At the beginning of spring it will be possible to find some paths a little ruined by winter rains.
Summer is the busiest period among the trails and roads where not only hikers but also hikers take advantage of the good season to breathe fresh air and uncontaminated areas.
Autumn is a riot of colors, the days still have pleasant temperatures and often the weather gives clear days.
The recommended period for walking is from the end of February until the middle/end of November, sometimes it is possible to extend the period except for extreme adverse weather events.
How many stops are there on the Cammino Retico Southern?
The Way, is developed in the foothills and plains with some climbs sometimes short but challenging therefore we recommend a good physical preparation before departure, Also in view of the fact that in addition to our own weight we should carry with us the backpack with what is necessary for the days of travel.
The Cammino Retico Southern, is born as a route developed in 3/4 days taking into account the difference in altitude and the distances you intend to travel daily, so that it does not prove too strenuous well-trained travelers will be able to close the route in two days, but we invite you to plan the route calmly, letting yourself be carried away by the history, beauty and art of these still little known territories, also to give validity to your credential remember to put a stamp for each stop point or at one of the affiliated facilities.
How to get the list of activities?
Click to download the list of activities agreed with the Way (pdf – 289 kb)
How to get the tracks GPX tracks?
By signing up to the trail you will get the unique 68.8 km GPX track.
Can I stay with my dog?
Dogs are accepted by some facilities but it is always recommended to specify the presence of a dog at the time of booking.
In addition, be careful not to leave the dog free during the walk, possibility of encountering wild animals or creating obstruction and danger along the paved roads.
If a host or sponsor is “agreed” does this mean I will receive a discount on the service offered to me by presenting my credentials?
No activity is obliged to make discounts on the prices offered, you ask anyway, announcing that you will arrive as a traveler, any offer will be managed after showing your credential.
Can I walk on non-consecutive days?
Of course, the Cammino Retico Southern can be walked as best you think, it is certain that to have the final certificate of travel will need, in the Start Point where you started, attest by stamping, the verification of the complete route.
Why is it important to have at least one stamp on the credential for each stage with a date?
To have at least one stamp, writing the date in each stage, allows you to have the final testimony and the history as a memory of your journey.
If I have problems along the way, who can I turn to?
It depends on what problems.
Problems regarding the track you can write text message to the creator of the Progetto Cammino Retico on WhatsApp +39 345 897 2734 (Francesco).
Will there be a luggage transfer service from one stage to another?
Under evaluation. For this service write to info@camminoretico.it (Francesco) and ask for information on the possible service.
Is the Cammino Retico Southern practicable with a tent?
If you are planning to walk the Cammino Retico Southern with your tent, you are on the right path for an unforgettable adventure! There are no equipped camping areas where you can stay overnight.
Warning: if you want to camp free in nature, be sure to follow the regulations of the territories you cross. It is essential to respect nature and wild animals to ensure that everyone can enjoy these wonderful places.
It is also important to keep in mind that the Carpe Diem Association and the Cammino Retico cannot be held responsible for any problems or penalties that may arise during your trip. So, prepare well, respect the environment and have a good journey!
Last advice: it is advisable to travel with some (little) cash for various emergencies. In the major centers crossed, you will find the possibility to withdraw cash in banks or Italian Post, you will find shops, pharmacies, restaurants etc. We recommend that preference be given to the affiliated establishments, as these have been verified by us.
Public transport (the links will open new browser tabs):
- Dolomitibus (pullman)
- MOM | “Marca” area Mobility (pullman)
- Trenitalia (trains)
For taxi or other exceptional transport needs (not health emergencies) contact +39 345 897 2734 via WhatsApp with text message (Francesco) to have information and any contacts.
For more serious emergencies contact 118 OR 112
Quero
- Start Point: Quero Brewery – Via Feltre, 23, 32038 Quero BL – Telephone: +39 (0)439 788460
Alano di Piave
- Start Point: Restaurant Pizzeria Molin – Piazza dei Martiri, 13, 32031 Alano di Piave BL – Telephone: + 39 (0)439 779129 – www.ristorantepizzeriaalmolin.it
Castelcucco
- Start Point: Farmacia Di Castelcucco Del Dr. Abatianni Francesco & C. Sas – Viale Trento E Trieste, 54, 31030 Castelcucco – Telephone:+ 39 366 982 0785
- Start point: Hotel Montegrappa – Viale Monte Grappa, 8, 31030 Castelcucco TV – Telephone: +39 (0)423 563123
