Castelluccio

Castelluccio​

Latest page update: 28 March 2025
By: Dion Protani
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.

What People Ask About Castelluccio

What is Castelluccio known for?
Castelluccio is best known for the flowering of the Piano Grande, a vast plateau that becomes a patchwork of colours between late May and early July. It’s also famous for its lentils and dramatic views of the Sibillini Mountains.
When is the best time to visit Castelluccio?
The best time to visit is during the flowering season, usually from late May to early July. This period, known as the *Fiorita*, attracts visitors who come to see the blooming fields of poppies, cornflowers, and lentils.
Is Castelluccio worth visiting outside of the flower season?
Yes, Castelluccio is worth visiting year-round for hiking, photography, and views over the Sibillini National Park. The setting is impressive in every season, and it’s a peaceful destination with wide open landscapes and mountain trails.
How do you get to Castelluccio?
Castelluccio is only accessible by road. The nearest large town is Norcia, about 30 km away. The road climbs through the Apennines and offers scenic views, but weather and conditions can affect access, especially in winter.
Can you stay overnight in Castelluccio?
Yes, there are a few small hotels, B&Bs, and agriturismi in and around Castelluccio, though options are limited. Many visitors also stay in Norcia or other nearby towns and visit Castelluccio as a day trip.
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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. ​
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. ​
Tours & Activities
Castelluccio - frazione di Norcia
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
  • Hotel Ristorante Castelluccio Located in the heart of Castelluccio di Norcia, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, a restaurant serving traditional Umbrian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the peaceful setting, and the proximity to hiking trails and the stunning natural beauty of the Sibillini Mountains. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B La Casa della Sibilla Situated near the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a lovely garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Castelluccio di Norcia's historical sites and nearby nature reserves. €€ (mid-range)
  • Agriturismo Le Cascate Set in the scenic countryside near Castelluccio di Norcia, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with beautiful views, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests enjoy the authentic Umbrian experience, the tranquil rural setting, and the short drive to both Castelluccio’s cultural sites and the surrounding Sibillini Mountains National Park. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel Gran Sasso Located a short drive from Castelluccio di Norcia, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with mountain views, a restaurant with regional dishes, and a bar. Guests appreciate the good value for money, the clean facilities, and the convenient location for exploring the surrounding nature and attractions. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B Le Terrazze di Norcia Situated just outside Castelluccio di Norcia, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms with scenic views of the mountains, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the warm hospitality from the hosts, and the easy access to Castelluccio’s attractions and hiking trails. €€ (mid-range)

Castelluccio​​  Gallery

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

Castelluccio  Travel

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. ​

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