The best walks and hikes around Ordona

There are 5 hiking routes documented around Ordona on komoot, offering a variety of experiences primarily along segments of the historic Via Francigena.

Hikes around Ordona offer a diverse landscape. You'll find extensive, fertile plains characteristic of the Tavoliere delle Puglie, with vast fields and ancient olive groves. As you move towards the Sub-Apennine Dauno, the terrain becomes more varied with moderate hills, providing different gradients and scenic viewpoints.

The Mediterranean climate makes spring and autumn ideal for hiking in Ordona. Temperatures are milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be very hot, especially in the open plains, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended if visiting during this season.

While many routes in the area are considered more challenging, there is one easy route available. Most of the documented trails are segments of the Via Francigena, which can be quite long, but you can always choose to walk shorter sections.

Yes, for experienced hikers, there are 3 difficult routes available. These are typically longer segments of the Via Francigena, such as Via Francigena - 128 - Da Castelluccio dei Sauri a Ordona or Via Francigena - Variante Bradanica - 01 - Da Ordona a Ascoli Satriano, which cover significant distances and elevation changes.

You'll encounter vast agricultural plains with wheat and sunflower fields, ancient olive groves, and rolling hills as you approach the Sub-Apennine Dauno. The wider region also features natural reserves like Bosco Incoronata, known for birdwatching, and the Margherita di Savoia Salt Pans, famous for flamingos.

Yes, several points of interest are near the hiking routes. You can visit the Sanctuary of the Incoronata, explore the town of Ascoli Satriano, or see the Stornara Murals. These offer cultural and historical insights into the region.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most rural hiking trails around Ordona, especially on the open paths of the Via Francigena and countryside routes. Always keep your dog under control, especially near agricultural areas or livestock, and carry water for them, particularly during warmer months.

Most of the documented hiking routes around Ordona are segments of the Via Francigena, which are typically point-to-point. While dedicated circular routes might be less common directly from Ordona, the extensive network of rural roads and ancient *tratturi* (transhumance routes) offers opportunities to create your own loops through the countryside.

The hiking experiences around Ordona are rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.5 stars. Hikers often appreciate the historical significance of walking along the Via Francigena and the peaceful, expansive views of the Apulian countryside.

The hikes around Ordona are generally long-distance, reflecting their nature as pilgrimage route segments. Distances typically range from about 18 km to over 20 km, with durations between 4.5 to 5.5 hours of active walking. For example, the Via Francigena - 129 - Da Ordona a Stornara is approximately 20.3 km long.

For more details on the diverse natural reserves across Apulia, including areas like the Margherita di Savoia Salt Pans and Bosco Incoronata, you can visit the official regional tourism website: visit.puglia.it.