Towards the Church of Sant'Apollinare along the trails of the Alta Valconca – loop from Mondaino

This moderate 7.8-mile (12.6 km) hike takes you through the Alta Valconca countryside, offering expansive views that stretch from Rimini all the way to the sea. You'll gain about 1297 feet (395 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 48 minutes, traversing a mix of meadows, fields, valleys, and forests. The path combines paved roads, unpaved sections, asphalt, and gravel, leading you towards the ancient Church of Sant'Apollinare. It's a tranquil journey through unspoiled greenery, requiring a good level of fitness for its varied terrain.

Since this is a loop trail, you'll begin and end your hike in Mondaino, a fortified village that serves as a convenient starting point. The trail is well-regarded by local hikers for its diverse scenery and peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular choice for a day out. You can expect easily accessible paths for much of the route, though some sections require sure-footedness. Plan your visit to allow time to explore Mondaino before or after your hike.

A significant highlight of the route is the Church of Sant'Apollinare, an ancient place of worship dating back to the 7th or 8th century AD. Historically, it provided refuge for pilgrims and now offers a site for prayer and peace as part of the Tenuta Sant'Apollinare. In Mondaino, you can discover its unique circular square, the historic Malatesta fortress, and a paleontological museum. The village, named after the deer that still inhabit the area, also hosts the medieval Palio del Daino festival every August.