Anello della Rupe
A scenic circular walk around the base of Orvieto's dramatic clifftop, revealing Etruscan history and stunning valley views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Anello della Rupe
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic circular walk around the base of Orvieto's dramatic clifftop, revealing Etruscan history and stunning valley views.
"Nice place for walking and getting panoramic views of the valleys surrounding Orvieto."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be uneven and rocky in places. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. There are some water fountains, but it's good to be prepared.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Valley Views
Along the Anello della Rupe trail
Soak in breathtaking vistas of the Umbrian countryside and the dramatic volcanic cliffs.
Etruscan History Markers
Along the Anello della Rupe trail
Discover ancient Etruscan caves and historical points of interest dotting the route.
The Grandeur of the Cliffs
Base of Orvieto's cliffs
Gain a true appreciation for the scale and natural defense of Orvieto's dramatic clifftop setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cliffside Charm
Strategic Access Points
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be uneven and rocky in places. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. There are some water fountains, but it's good to be prepared.
🗺️ Follow the Markers
The trail is generally marked with white and red rectangles, but be mindful of junctions to stay on course.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Paths
This is a great place for a run or to walk your dog, offering plenty of space and scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be uneven and rocky in places. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. There are some water fountains, but it's good to be prepared.
🗺️ Follow the Markers
The trail is generally marked with white and red rectangles, but be mindful of junctions to stay on course.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Paths
This is a great place for a run or to walk your dog, offering plenty of space and scenery.
📸 Capture the Views
The contrast of red rocks and green plants offers picturesque scenery perfect for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Anello della Rupe for its stunning panoramic views and peaceful walking paths, offering a unique perspective of Orvieto's dramatic clifftop setting. While generally well-marked, some find the trail challenging in parts and suggest paying attention to junctions. It's a highly recommended experience for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
"Nice place for walking and getting panoramic views of the valleys surrounding Orvieto. Peaceful paths, beautiful scenery, and plenty of spots to stop and soak it in. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a quiet escape."
Abdullah R
"We did a small portion of this ring around the top of the cliff/town of Orvieto. We were at Porta Soliana, the medieval eastern entrance to the city. Lovely and quiet there.
For more details:
Anello della Rupe (Ring around the cliff) https://share.google/BYCodArR9tFBxCNsF"
Simon Cope
"The trail follows a route around the base of the clifftop town of Orvieto. It is a moderate hike of about 3 miles but can be split into small sections which is what we did.
There are a number of points of exit that lead down from the town to the walk. There is a lift and escalator at one point. Giving some accessibility however the path would be very challenging in parts.
The main path is in general clearly marked with a white and red rectangle, but there are a couple of junctions where you can go wrong.
Overall a fascinating and fun small hike."
Lorenzo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Anello della Rupe encircles the base of Orvieto's clifftop. You can access it from various points within the town, including near Porta Soliana, where there's a lift and escalator.
Many visitors arrive in Orvieto by train from Rome (about 1.5 hours) and then walk or take local transport to the trail access points.Absolutely! Orvieto is a popular and highly recommended day trip from Rome, offering a beautiful escape with stunning views and historical sites like the Anello della Rupe.
Exploring Orvieto often involves walking its charming streets and experiencing its unique geography. The Anello della Rupe provides a fantastic way to see the town from its base, complementing explorations of the historic center.
Yes, you can drive to Orvieto. It's approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Rome. Be aware that parking within the historic center can be limited, so consider parking outside the walls and walking or using public transport.
Within Orvieto, walking is the primary way to get around the historic center. For reaching the clifftop town from the train station or parking areas, there's a funicular and escalators. The Anello della Rupe is best explored on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Anello della Rupe is a public walking trail and does not require an entrance ticket. It's a free way to experience the natural beauty and history surrounding Orvieto.
The Anello della Rupe is an outdoor trail and is generally accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
Yes, guided tours are available for the Anello della Rupe and the city of Orvieto, offering deeper insights into its history and geology.
You can often find local guides in the town center.While the main path is mostly improved, some sections can be challenging. There are access points with lifts and escalators, but the trail itself may be difficult for those with mobility issues.
For attractions like the Duomo and Pozzo di San Patrizio, visiting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid peak crowds. The Anello della Rupe is more flexible, with mornings and late afternoons offering pleasant walking conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Anello della Rupe, meaning 'Ring of the Cliff,' is a circular walking path that follows the base of the tufa cliffs upon which Orvieto is built. It offers unique views and historical context.
The full Anello della Rupe trail is approximately 3.5 miles (about 5.6 km) long. However, it can be easily done in segments due to multiple access points.
Expect a picturesque contrast between the red volcanic rocks of the cliffs and the lush green vegetation. You'll get stunning views of the surrounding valleys and a unique perspective of Orvieto from below.
Yes, the trail passes by historical markers explaining Etruscan caves, necropolises, and other points of interest. It's a journey through the ancient history of Orvieto.
The Pozzo di San Patrizio (Well of St. Patrick) is a remarkable 16th-century well with a double-helix staircase. It's a major attraction in Orvieto and is accessible from the town, with some parts of the Anello della Rupe trail offering views or proximity to its vicinity.
📸 📸 Photography
The Anello della Rupe offers incredible photo opportunities with its dramatic cliff views and the contrast of nature. Don't miss the Duomo di Orvieto, which is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides beautiful lighting for photographing the Anello della Rupe and the town itself.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both landscapes along the Anello della Rupe and architectural details of the Duomo. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive views.
The uneven terrain on parts of the Anello della Rupe requires careful footing while shooting. Also, capturing the full scale of the Duomo can be challenging due to its size and surrounding buildings.
Drone regulations can be strict in historic Italian towns. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Orvieto or the Anello della Rupe.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the Anello della Rupe, Orvieto itself has attractions that appeal to families. The Pozzo di San Patrizio (Well of St. Patrick) with its incredible double-helix staircase is a marvel that kids often find fascinating. Exploring the medieval streets and perhaps visiting the Rocca Albornoziana (a fortress) can also be enjoyable. Remember that Orvieto is a clifftop town, so always supervise children closely, especially near edges.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
For hikers, the full 3.5-mile loop offers a satisfying challenge, while the segmented access points allow for shorter, more relaxed walks. You can easily combine a hike on the Anello della Rupe with exploring the historic town center, the Duomo, or the underground city. Consider joining a guided tour for the Anello della Rupe to gain deeper historical insights and connect with other travelers.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the Anello della Rupe, Orvieto itself is a photographer's paradise. The Duomo di Orvieto is an iconic subject, with its intricate facade and soaring spires. Don't forget to explore the charming medieval streets, which offer endless opportunities for capturing atmospheric shots. Remember to pack a versatile lens and perhaps a wide-angle to do justice to the expansive views and detailed architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Anello della Rupe: A Walk Through History
This approximately 3.5-mile loop is a moderate hike, with some sections being more challenging than others. However, its accessibility is enhanced by several access points scattered around the cliff base. These points, some featuring modern conveniences like lifts and escalators, allow visitors to join or leave the trail at various stages, making it adaptable for different fitness levels and time constraints. Whether you choose to complete the entire circuit or explore a segment, the Anello della Rupe provides a profound connection to Orvieto's natural and historical landscape, revealing a side of the city often unseen from above.
Travelers often describe the experience as being 'almost in nature,' with the striking contrast between the red volcanic rock and the vibrant green flora creating a truly picturesque environment. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the grandeur and scale of the cliffs, understanding why this clifftop location was chosen for settlement. For those looking for a peaceful escape and a deeper understanding of Orvieto's origins, the Anello della Rupe is an unmissable experience.
Orvieto: A Clifftop Gem and Its Culinary Delights
While pasta is a staple in Italy, Orvieto's culinary identity extends beyond it. Travelers are often intrigued by the local specialties, with some signature dishes sparking curiosity. The region is also known for its excellent wines, particularly Orvieto Classico, a crisp white wine that perfectly complements the local cuisine. Exploring the town's eateries offers a chance to savor authentic Umbrian flavors, from hearty meat dishes to delicate pastries.
For those visiting, a day trip to Orvieto from Rome is highly recommended, offering a refreshing break from the city's hustle and bustle. The town's charm extends to its underground network, a fascinating labyrinth of caves and tunnels carved into the tufa rock, adding another layer to its historical allure.
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