Rome to Terracina

This is a long wonderful stage which begins by following the road to the beautiful cliffside town of Norma.

From Norma the track descends on a rocky path which zigzags down the hill on the south side. At one point the path divides, and continues zigzagging until reaching the Via Norbana. The path turns left and follows the Via Norbana until the Strada Provinciale Ninfina 1. Then onto the Via Madonna della Grazia and up the hill and up and up to Sermoneta, an attractive town which is worth a visit.

The walled medieval hill town of Sermoneta is known for its 13th century Caetani Castle and Romanesque Cathedral, Church of St. Joseph and Church of Michael Archangel.

The path continues past Sermoneta to Via San Francesa. This involves more climbing, and the way follows country roads (several turns in here) before finally narrowing into a path and then, at a gate, becoming a trail across the side of a steep hill. This part of the walk offers great views and woods until it runs through a large cattle ranch. From there the path runs into the high side of Sezze.

Legend claims that Sezze was founded by Hercules. It became a Roman colony in 382 B.C. and was prized for its strategic position above the Appian Way. Many of the original city walls still stand. Its main site is the 13th Century Gothic cathedral.

Note:  If you are breaking this longer stage into two days, consider a side trip past Norma to the Giardina di Ninfa, the ruins of Caetani castle and its lake and gardens (the sight of historic old Ninfa):  to do this, walk the rough tracks out of Norma. When they join the pavement (Via Norbana) turn left. At the first major intersection turn right onto Via Ninfina and walk about 3 km. where Ninfa will be on the left. On the way back, stay on Via Ninfina until the Roundabout. Stay left briefly and turn right at the first road to visit the beautiful and highly recommended Valvisciolo Abbey. Continue on to Sermoneta by going back to the roundabout and joining the tracks which turn left on Via Abbadia and walking 1.8 km and taking a left onto Via Madonna delle Grazie.