Prati di Mezzo

This plateau, situated at the base of the striking Mainarde peaks, represents the natural border between Lazio and Molise, and is located on the Lazio side of the Lazio Abruzzo and Molise National Park.

During the Second World War, the Mainarde were the scene of bloody battles, known as the Italian Campaign, between German troops and the Allies. These clashes took place from the winter of 1943 until the spring of 1944.

The area surrounding Prati di Mezzo has long been inhabited by transhumant shepherds and is still a popular destination for summer grazing of cattle and sheep and goats. The Picinisco area is also known for the production of PDO pecorino cheese.

Starting from the Prati di Mezzo car park (1401 metres), you can take a dirt road to the right, which leads to the camping area and the ‘Il Baraccone’ bar. You can then proceed along the Valle Forestella to circumnavigate Monte Nese (1632 metres), following an obvious path shaded by beech trees. After leaving the edge of the forest, you can admire a plateau furrowed by streams of water and old stone belts that once formed ancient herd fences.