Pescolletta: How to Get There and Trails

Where Pescolletta Is

Pescolletta is in the territory of Montefortino, in the province of Fermo, inside the Sibillini National Park in the Sibillini Mountains. The small valley lies below the east ridge of Pizzo Tre Vescovi. This ridge continues toward Colle Bassete, the Forcella Bassete and Monte Castel Manardo (1,917 m). The Rifugio del Fargno, at the Forcella del Fargno (1,811 m), is the nearest base on the north side of the mountain.

How to Get to Pescolletta

The most common access starts from Pintura di Bolognola, which is reached from Sassotetto coming from Sarnano, or from Bolognola coming from Fiastra. Pintura lies at about 1,340 m. From here the gravel road climbs toward the Forcella del Fargno. In recent years traffic on the road has repeatedly been closed or limited to pedestrians only, so it is wise to check its status with the Municipality of Bolognola and to plan for the stretch on foot. At the foot of a steep path on the left, the route climbs to the Forcella Bassete (1,710 m). The Pescolletta valley stays on the east side, in the direction of Pizzo Tre Vescovi.

Pescolletta Trails and Hikes

The eastern ridge that leads to Pescolletta or to the Forcella Bassete, toward Castel Manardo and Campolungo, starts from the Rifugio del Fargno. A loop from Pintura di Bolognola passes the Forcella Bassete and climbs Pizzo Tre Vescovi. The return is through the Valle del Fargno. This loop is long and demanding, takes a good part of the day and is graded as hiking (E). The marked trails are CAI 313, 241, 274 and 311.

CAI trail 241 follows the ridge. CAI 273 descends from the summit toward the Forcella Angagnola, from where it is possible to continue to Pizzo Berro. Along the ridge, signage is limited and there is a grade II passage on a rocky spur, which can be bypassed on the right-hand side.

When to Go to Pescolletta

Summer is the best time for the hike on foot. The high meadows are in bloom and the trail is clear. The route also suits the fall. In winter the valley is a classic ascent of the east ridge, but it requires winter mountaineering gear. The slopes above the Strada del Fargno are known for avalanche risk. Before setting out, check the weather and any access restrictions on roads and trails.

What to See Near Pescolletta

The summit of Pizzo Tre Vescovi is reached in less than an hour from the Forcella del Fargno. On the top there is a crown of gray limestone, and the view reaches the face of Monte Bove. Pizzo Berro and Monte Castel Manardo can be reached along the ridges. Farther down, Montefortino keeps a medieval historic center with 16th- and 17th-century churches.