Castelluccio
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Latest page update: 27 August 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Castelluccio
Castelluccio has no established hotel infrastructure, as accommodation on the plateau is mainly limited to small B&Bs and rural lodgings serving walkers, cyclists and visitors to the Pian Grande. Travellers who prefer full-service hotels with reliable facilities and a stronger base of guest reviews generally stay in nearby towns and visit Castelluccio for day trips and outdoor activities.
In Norcia, Palazzo Seneca is the most refined choice in the area, appreciated for its elegant interiors, spa facilities and consistently positive guest feedback in the historic centre (€€€€). Also in Norcia, Best Western Hotel Salicone offers a practical alternative with comfortable rooms, sports facilities and a convenient position close to shops and restaurants (€€€). For those wanting a quieter countryside stay, Il Borgo Relais near Cascia provides welcoming hospitality, spacious rooms and a relaxed setting within easy reach of the Valnerina and the Sibillini Mountains (€€).
In Norcia, Palazzo Seneca is the most refined choice in the area, appreciated for its elegant interiors, spa facilities and consistently positive guest feedback in the historic centre (€€€€). Also in Norcia, Best Western Hotel Salicone offers a practical alternative with comfortable rooms, sports facilities and a convenient position close to shops and restaurants (€€€). For those wanting a quieter countryside stay, Il Borgo Relais near Cascia provides welcoming hospitality, spacious rooms and a relaxed setting within easy reach of the Valnerina and the Sibillini Mountains (€€).
Where is
Where is Castelluccio?
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The village of Castelluccio is one of the most extraordinary places not only in Umbria, but the whole of Italy itself.
Otherwise known as Castelluccio di Norcia (the town of Norcia itself is around 30 kilometres away) to distinguish it from many other villages of the same name, it's situated within the Province of Perugia and rises to an elevation of 1,452 metres above sea level. What is remarkable about Castelluccio however, is the incredible display of colour that occurs on the plains next to the village. |
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Castelluccio - frazione di Norcia
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Comune: Norcia
Province: Perugia Region: Umbria Elevation: 1,452 metres Highlights: Piano Grande - multi-coloured fields, lentils Close by: Monti Sibillini National Park, Preci, Cascia, Ascoli Piceno |
What People Ask About Castelluccio
What is Castelluccio known for?
When is the best time to visit Castelluccio?
Is Castelluccio worth visiting outside of the flower season?
How do you get to Castelluccio?
Can you stay overnight in Castelluccio?
Related links
Discover
Discover Castelluccio
A combination of poppies, rapeseed and lentils create a kaleidoscopic effect that stretches out as far as the eye can see across the beautiful plains of the Piano Grande just below the village. Even though the plains themselves are beautiful all year round, most people are attracted by those vibrant colours and you have to get it right to see the area in full bloom.
Generally-speaking, this occurs around the end of June or the beginning of July, but there is no hard and fast rule around this. To be fully prepared, it's often a good idea to find the number of a friendly hotel or shopkeeper in the area who can advise on the very latest situation on the plains. They'll be able to advise you whether or not the bloom has started and when it's likely to be in full flourish.
Generally-speaking, this occurs around the end of June or the beginning of July, but there is no hard and fast rule around this. To be fully prepared, it's often a good idea to find the number of a friendly hotel or shopkeeper in the area who can advise on the very latest situation on the plains. They'll be able to advise you whether or not the bloom has started and when it's likely to be in full flourish.
Earthquake damage and lentil production
Another important aspect of Castelluccio is that the village itself suffered severe damage from a series of earthquakes and aftershocks in 2016 and 2017. The village is very small with no more than 120 residents but you can still see the effects of the earthquake on the village centre.
However, from a personal point of view, my main take away from visiting Castelluccio was the character and resilience of the people who have managed to bounce back from the earthquake and slowly rebuild their lives.
Among their endeavours are the continuation of the production of lentils that not only help to create those magical colours, but that are renowned throughout Italy as being of the very highest quality.
At the edge of the village there are a number of vendors selling the lentils alongside other local produce such as salami and truffles. Due to the devastation of the earthquake, there is little in the village itself to hold your attention but on the road that leads up to it there's a complex of shops and restaurants that afford wonderful views across the plains.
However, from a personal point of view, my main take away from visiting Castelluccio was the character and resilience of the people who have managed to bounce back from the earthquake and slowly rebuild their lives.
Among their endeavours are the continuation of the production of lentils that not only help to create those magical colours, but that are renowned throughout Italy as being of the very highest quality.
At the edge of the village there are a number of vendors selling the lentils alongside other local produce such as salami and truffles. Due to the devastation of the earthquake, there is little in the village itself to hold your attention but on the road that leads up to it there's a complex of shops and restaurants that afford wonderful views across the plains.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Castelluccio
- Pian Grande and the flowering plains surround Castelluccio and are world-renowned for the Fiorita, the natural blooming that occurs each year between late May and early July. The plains are covered in vibrant patches of poppies, cornflowers, lentils and daisies. The event attracts photographers and walkers from across Europe. The bloom coincides with the lentil growing season, a key part of local agriculture.
- Historic village ruins and reconstruction reflect the impact of the 2016 earthquake, with parts of the village still under restoration. Some houses and streets are accessible, offering views over the valley below. Temporary structures host local businesses and shops. The location remains a symbol of resilience in the face of natural disaster.
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta, though damaged in the earthquake, remains one of the central historic sites in the village. Restoration efforts are ongoing, with limited access depending on conditions. It formerly held religious artefacts and hosted community celebrations. Its simple stone façade reflects the rural character of the area.
- Walking and hiking trails in the Sibillini Mountains begin near Castelluccio and offer routes through high-altitude meadows and rocky slopes. Popular paths include the route to Monte Vettore and the ridge above Pian Perduto. The area is part of the Monti Sibillini National Park. Summer and early autumn are ideal for trekking.
- Paragliding and cycling experiences take advantage of the wide open spaces and altitude of the plateau. Local operators offer tandem flights with views across the entire valley. Cycling routes vary from gentle plains to more challenging mountain ascents. Equipment hire and guided activities are available during the tourist season.
Tours and Activities
Castelluccio Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Castelluccio Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Castelluccio
- Norcia (approx. 20 km southeast of Castelluccio di Norcia): A historic town renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Basilica of St. Benedict and the town walls. Norcia is also famous for its culinary traditions, particularly its cured meats and black truffles. The town is a gateway to the Monti Sibillini National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and outdoor activities.
- Preci (approx. 15 km north of Castelluccio di Norcia): A small village celebrated for its stone-carving tradition, evident in its historic buildings and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, which houses notable medieval sculptures. Preci is surrounded by scenic mountain landscapes, making it an ideal location for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
- Ascoli Piceno (approx. 60 km south of Castelluccio di Norcia): A city famed for its elegant Piazza del Popolo, lined with historic buildings and cafes, and its distinctive travertine architecture. Ascoli Piceno also offers a rich history dating back to Roman times, with attractions such as the Temple of Jupiter and the medieval fortress, Forte Malatesta.
- Camerino (approx. 50 km northeast of Castelluccio di Norcia): A university town with a rich history, featuring the historic Ducal Palace, the Church of San Venancio, and the National Archaeological Museum of the Marche. Camerino is surrounded by the beautiful Monti Sibillini mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the surrounding natural parks.
Umbria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Castelluccio
Without question, the best way to reach Castelluccio is by road. Once you reach the town of Norcia, you steadily climb the mountain roads and can enjoy one of the prettiest driving routes in Italy. Continue north from Castelluccio and you arrive at the equally-spectacular Monti Sibillini National Park, or if you double-back then head east, you can cross into the neighbouring region of Marche.
By Rail: Castelluccio does not have its own train station. The nearest major station is Spoleto, located approximately 45 kilometres away, and served by Trenitalia regional and Intercity trains. Journey times from Rome to Spoleto are around 1 hour and 45 minutes. From Spoleto, Castelluccio can be reached by car in about 1 hour via Norcia. There is no direct public transport to the village, so access typically requires private transport.
By Road: Castelluccio is located in the Sibillini Mountains within the Monti Sibillini National Park, in south-eastern Umbria near the border with the Marche region. It is about 30 kilometres from Norcia and 90 kilometres from Perugia. The drive from Norcia takes around 45 minutes along mountain roads, while from Perugia it takes about 2 hours. The SP477 is the main road leading to the village. Parking is available on the edge of the village, especially during the high season when access is restricted to manage traffic.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Castelluccio is located in the Sibillini Mountains within the Monti Sibillini National Park, in south-eastern Umbria near the border with the Marche region. It is about 30 kilometres from Norcia and 90 kilometres from Perugia. The drive from Norcia takes around 45 minutes along mountain roads, while from Perugia it takes about 2 hours. The SP477 is the main road leading to the village. Parking is available on the edge of the village, especially during the high season when access is restricted to manage traffic.
Nearest International Airports:
- Perugia Airport (Aeroporto di Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi): Located approximately 100 kilometres north-west of Castelluccio, the drive takes around 2 hours. The airport offers a limited number of domestic and European flights.
- Rome Fiumicino Airport (Aeroporto di Roma-Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci): Situated around 190 kilometres south-west, with a driving time of about 3 hours and 15 minutes. This is the largest and most connected airport in central Italy, serving destinations worldwide.
- Ancona Airport (Aeroporto di Ancona-Falconara): Located around 170 kilometres north-east of Castelluccio, the journey takes approximately 3 hours by car. It offers flights to a small number of European cities.
Private Transfers
Castelluccio Private Transfers
A private transfer to or from Castelluccio is one of the most efficient ways to reach this remote area of Umbria, especially given the lack of direct public transport. You’ll be collected from your chosen location—such as a nearby train station, hotel, or airport—and driven straight to your destination.
Castelluccio is located in the Sibillini Mountains, around 28 kilometres south of Norcia, and approximately 80 kilometres from Spoleto (about 1 hour and 45 minutes by car). The nearest major airport is Perugia Airport, about 115 kilometres away, with a journey time of just over 2 hours depending on road conditions.
To arrange a private transfer, please fill out the form below with your travel details.
Castelluccio is located in the Sibillini Mountains, around 28 kilometres south of Norcia, and approximately 80 kilometres from Spoleto (about 1 hour and 45 minutes by car). The nearest major airport is Perugia Airport, about 115 kilometres away, with a journey time of just over 2 hours depending on road conditions.
To arrange a private transfer, please fill out the form below with your travel details.
