Castelluccio  di  Norcia

Latest page update: 28 November 2024
By Dion Protani
Nestled in the Apennine Mountains of Umbria, Italy, Castelluccio di Norcia is a picturesque village within the province of Perugia. Its population, which typically ranges around 150 residents, swells dramatically in the summer months due to tourism.

​Castelluccio di Norcia is renowned for its stunning landscapes, particularly the expansive Piano Grande, a high plain that bursts into colorful wildflowers during spring, creating a breathtaking spectacle known as the "Fioritura." It also boasts a rich culinary tradition, with specialties including lentils and cured meats.
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Castelluccio di Norcia: a patchwork of colour
With its position in the Sibillini Mountains, Castelluccio di Norcia is famed for its breathtaking floral display during late spring and early summer when vibrant wildflowers blanket the rolling hills, creating a mesmerizing patchwork of colors. Visitors flock to witness the "Fioritura," a natural spectacle that transforms the landscape into a kaleidoscope of hues.

​Apart from its floral beauty, Castelluccio offers panoramic views of the Apennines and is an ideal destination for hiking and photography enthusiasts. To experience the enchanting Fioritura, plan your visit between late May and early July, when the flowers are in full bloom, painting the countryside with their vibrant splendor.
Castelluccio - frazione di Norcia
​Comune: Norcia

Province: Perugia

Region: Umbria

Elevation: 1,452 metres

​Highlights: Piano Grande - multi-coloured fields, lentils

​Close by: Rasiglia, Spoleto, Assisi, Perugia, Lake Trasimeno

Recommended stay: Relais & Chateaux Palazzo Seneca (26 km)
What are the most popular tours and activities in Castelluccio di Norcia?
  • Flower Festival Visit: Experience the vibrant colors of the famous "Fioritura" (flowering) phenomenon that occurs in Castelluccio di Norcia's Piano Grande, where wildflowers bloom in a kaleidoscope of hues during late spring and early summer. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks amidst the blooming fields, capturing stunning photographs of the landscape.
  • Monte Vettore Hiking: Embark on hiking adventures in the Monte Vettore area, exploring trails that offer panoramic views of the Sibillini Mountains, valleys, and picturesque hilltop villages. Guided hikes cater to various skill levels, providing opportunities to immerse in the natural beauty of the Apennines.
  • Photography Tours: Capture the breathtaking scenery of Castelluccio di Norcia and the surrounding countryside with photography tours led by professional photographers. These tours offer insights into composition techniques and provide opportunities to photograph the stunning landscapes, including the flowering plains and the majestic Monte Vettore.
  • Culinary Experiences: Indulge in Umbrian cuisine with culinary tours and tastings that showcase local specialties such as lentil dishes, cured meats, and cheeses. Visitors can sample delicacies at traditional restaurants and agriturismi, as well as learn about local culinary traditions and cooking techniques.
  • Cultural Visits: Explore the historic village of Castelluccio di Norcia with guided tours that highlight its medieval architecture, churches, and cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about the village's history, including its resilience in the face of natural disasters, and discover its traditions and way of life.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in various outdoor activities such as paragliding, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the scenic landscapes surrounding Castelluccio di Norcia. Guided excursions cater to adventure enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-filled experiences amidst the natural beauty of the Sibillini Mountains.
Where should I eat in Castelluccio di Norcia?
  • Trattoria degli Alpini: This cozy trattoria is known for its warm hospitality and hearty mountain fare. Visitors can enjoy traditional Umbrian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including wild boar stew, lentil soup, and homemade pasta.
  • Ristorante La Lucciola: Situated in the heart of Castelluccio di Norcia, this family-run restaurant offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The menu features a variety of regional specialties, such as grilled meats, truffle dishes, and seasonal vegetables.
  • Locanda degli Alpini: Located near the main square of Castelluccio di Norcia, this rustic inn and restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu of classic Umbrian cuisine. Guests can sample dishes like tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms, grilled lamb chops, and panna cotta for dessert.
  • Rifugio Castelluccio: For a unique dining experience, consider visiting this mountain refuge located just outside the village. Situated at an elevation of over 1,400 meters, the rifugio offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can enjoy simple yet delicious mountain fare, including soups, sandwiches, and hot drinks.
  • Bar Ristorante Panorama: This casual eatery is known for its friendly service and panoramic views of the Piano Grande, a vast plateau surrounded by mountains. The menu features a selection of pizzas, sandwiches, and snacks, making it a great spot for a quick bite while exploring the area.

Castelluccio  di  Norcia​  Gallery

What are the best places to stay in Castelluccio di Norcia?
  • Hotel Ristorante Il Pian Grande: Located in the heart of Castelluccio di Norcia, Hotel Ristorante Il Pian Grande offers comfortable accommodations with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel features cozy rooms with rustic decor, a traditional restaurant serving local cuisine, and a terrace where guests can enjoy panoramic vistas of the countryside.
  • Agriturismo La Valle del Sambuco: Situated in the nearby countryside, Agriturismo La Valle del Sambuco offers charming accommodations in a peaceful setting. The agriturismo features cozy rooms and apartments with rustic furnishings, a restaurant serving homemade meals made with organic ingredients, and outdoor seating areas where guests can relax and enjoy the scenery.
  • Rifugio Castelluccio: For a unique accommodation experience, consider staying at Rifugio Castelluccio, a mountain refuge located on the slopes of Monte Vettore. The refuge offers basic dormitory-style accommodations with shared facilities, but guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Sibillini Mountains and easy access to hiking trails in the area.
  • Agriturismo Il Casale degli Amici: Located a short drive from Castelluccio di Norcia, Agriturismo Il Casale degli Amici offers comfortable accommodations in a restored farmhouse surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The agriturismo features spacious rooms and apartments with traditional furnishings, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving organic meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
  • B&B Le Rose: Situated in the nearby town of Norcia, B&B Le Rose offers cozy accommodations in a historic building within walking distance of the town center. The bed and breakfast features comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a garden where guests can relax, and a delicious breakfast served each morning.
What's the closest airport to Castelluccio di Norcia?
Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi - Umbria International Airport (PEG):

  • Located approximately 125 kilometers southwest of Castelluccio di Norcia.
  • Perugia Airport serves as the main airport for the Umbria region.
  • From Perugia Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Castelluccio di Norcia. The journey typically takes around 2 hours by road.

Ancona-Falconara Airport (AOI):

  • Located approximately 130 kilometers east of Castelluccio di Norcia.
  • Ancona Airport is a larger airport offering domestic and international flights.
  • From Ancona Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Castelluccio di Norcia. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by road.
What's the closest train station to Castelluccio di Norcia?
Foligno Train Station:

  • Located approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Castelluccio di Norcia.
  • Foligno is a major railway hub in Umbria, with connections to various cities across Italy.
  • From Foligno Train Station, you can rent a car or take a combination of regional buses to reach Castelluccio di Norcia.

Spoleto Train Station:

  • Located approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Castelluccio di Norcia.
  • Spoleto is another railway station in Umbria, offering connections to different parts of Italy.
  • From Spoleto Train Station, you can rent a car or take regional buses to reach Castelluccio di Norcia.
What private transfer options are there for Castelluccio di Norcia?
A private transfer from Perugia Airport to Castelluccio di Norcia takes around one hour 30 minutes. 

If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
​
  • Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
  • Arrival date
  • Arrival time
  • Number of passengers
  • Destination (either town or specific hotel) 
​
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Castelluccio di Norcia?
  • Nearby Cities: Consider renting a car from larger cities or towns nearby, such as Norcia or Spoleto. These towns are relatively close and may have rental agencies available.
  • Regional Airport: Consider looking for rental options at airports such as Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi – Umbria International Airport. Although it may be further away, some rental agencies may offer shuttle services to pick up your rental car from the airport.
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