If you love nature and the sea , the circular trek that starts from the Bay of Trentova, in Agropoli, and arrives at the Belvedere Sant’Angelo, in the municipality of Santa Maria di Castellabate , is an experience not to be missed. With its 12 km in length and a difference in altitude of just over 300 meters , the route is of medium difficulty : perfect for those looking for an accessible adventure but full of breathtaking views.
The trail is a succession of spectacular scenery . It goes from coastal stretches with sea views to more inland areas, immersed in hills and woods. The path is mostly flat or slightly uphill, but there are some more challenging passages, especially after rain, when the ground can become muddy and slippery. A good pair of hiking shoes and a change of clothes for the return are recommended .
A journey between nature and history
Along the way, among the vegetation and the scent of the Mediterranean scrub, you come across the ruins of ancient abandoned villages , evidence of a thousand-year-old past.
Shortly after the start, after passing a wide dirt road that on the left leads back to the starting point and on the right is closed by a private property, you reach the first group of ruins. From here you have to climb a little and then go back down, after going around the private property, and return to the coast of the sea. You will then discover small hidden coves, like that of Saùco, which make the landscape even more suggestive .
Continuing along a stretch raised above the coast, you reach Punta Tresino , where the remains of the Angevin Tower of Tresino stand, dating back to 1277, preceded by those of the Aragonese Tower of Zappini . The latter stands near Punta Pagliarola , famous for its sea caves, a destination for underwater excursions.
The view from Belvedere Sant’Angelo
After about 6 km from the start and having skirted other private properties, the path leads to one of the most spectacular points of the itinerary: the Belvedere Sant’Angelo . From here, the view opens onto the gulf of Santa Maria di Castellabate and Agropoli , offering an unforgettable scene. Among the ruins of an old farmhouse, this is the perfect place for a stop, perhaps for a picnic lunch immersed in the beauty of nature.
The charm of Borgo Tresino
Resuming the journey, now oriented towards the starting point, you reach the ruins of the ancient village of Tresino , dominated by the Church of San Giovanni . Built in 957, today it is in a state of abandonment, but continues to fascinate for the legend linked to its bell. It is said that, stolen by the Saracens and thrown into the sea, it can still ring at midnight during the feast of San Giovanni.
Once a flourishing town, Tresino was abandoned in the 12th century due to Saracen raids . The inhabitants took refuge on the Sant’Angelo hill, where the Castello dell’Abate was built.
In addition to this village, the area preserves precious traces of the past : the remains of a Roman villa , a double tomb , that is, a burial place that housed two bodies, from the 3rd century BC, and marine finds such as amphorae and anchors , now exhibited in the Municipal Museum of Agropoli .
A finale between woods and panoramic paths
Once past the village and continuing on the return road, the route is all slightly downhill . It winds through narrow hilly paths and wide wooded areas, with some steeper sections only at the end . A perfect adventure for those who want to discover the authentic heart of Cilento .
