BOUCLE SAN MAMILIANU - SCOLCA

Calling all hikers looking for a challenge! The Scolca trail is the most demanding proposed by the Marana-Golo Tourist Office, but also one of the wildest. It crosses the Mala Notte woods, a dense forest of pubescent holm oaks, offering shady passages perfect for taking a break in the heart of nature. This loop allows you to discover both the charm of the village and the richness of its wooded surroundings.

Scolca path :
Start from the Church of San Mamilianu: 42.530542, 9.363545 (Alt. 590m)
Length of walk (excluding breaks): 3h
Distance covered: 5.5Kms
Difference in altitude: D+390m / D-390m
Difficulty: Medium

Please note: It is best to park at the entrance to the village and walk up to the church.

1) As soon as you set off, notice the campanile (separate bell tower) of San Mamilianu church, built in the 17th century.
Take the road opposite (leaving a fountain on the left) leading to the top of the village for 150m.

2) Start sign for "Giru di San Mamilianu". Follow the path through a beautiful chestnut grove, then enter the thick
into the thick Malanotte wood (the cursed night) to reach the crossroads of the fountain (no water) at 2.2 km. This place has a very special and strange atmosphere.

3) At the crossroads, there are two signs: the one on the right leads to "Bocca a Foata"; the one on the left is for "Chjassu di San Mamilianu", which you should follow. Be careful when crossing the forest. Note the presence of "aghje" (wheat threshing floors) and charcoal kilns (used for traditional charcoal-making).

4) Arrive at a small plateau and reach the crossroads leading to Cammare.

5) 100 m further on, on the right, there is a magnificent viewpoint (922 m) over the entire mountain range, the valley and its villages. Take a well-deserved break...

6) Retrace your steps back to point 4. Continue for about 30m.

7) Mark the start of the descent on your left.
Do not venture onto an unmarked path. On the way down, the path crosses a forest track several times; you will need to pay attention again to follow the path. You'll come across the ruins of Pastricciola and its "lenze" (terraced gardens).
Continue 1.5 km downhill to reach the path leading to the cross overlooking the village of
Scolca. The view over the valley and surrounding villages is impressive.

8) Leave the main path and head 100 metres further on to marker 754.

9) At "San Simone", after yet another "superb photo", retrace your steps.

10) Continue down the slightly bumpy descent to Scolca Paese 800m further down.

11) It's a very picturesque walk through the village. At the crossroads, turn left towards your starting point.

The Topo Guide is available to download to accompany you along your route and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable hike.