Flavors and Scents of Spring – Festival of the Spignolo Mushroom and Monte Catria

The festival celebrating the Catria spignolo

In Frontone, a small municipality in the Province of Pesaro and Urbino perched at the foot of Monte Catria, spring brings one of the most beloved food and wine festivals in the Marche hinterland: Flavors and Scents of Spring – Festival of the Spignolo Mushroom and Monte Catria. The event, organized by the Municipal Administration and the Pro Loco of Frontone, transforms the historic center of the village into a grand market of seasonal flavors, scents, and traditions.

The spignolo mushroom, the absolute star

The heart of the festival is the spignolo (or prugnolo), a spring mushroom with an intense aroma and delicate flavor, so prized that it is nicknamed the «white truffle of mushrooms». In Frontone, the tagliatelle with spignolo has been recognized as a De.Co. (Denominazione Comunale) product, testifying to the deep bond between the village and this forest treasure. At the food stands, you can enjoy tagliatelle and polenta with mushroom ragù, the traditional crescia with asparagus omelet, wild asparagus, and acacia flowers, as well as other recipes from the Catria peasant cuisine.

Not just gastronomy: nature, sport, and culture

The festival is also an opportunity to discover the Catria Massif, the mountain that locals call the «Switzerland of the Marche» for its healthy climate and alpine panoramas. Among the most anticipated events:

• Mountain bike excursions from Frontone or by cable car, along the trails of Monte Catria;
• Guided trekking to the Sanctuary of the Madonna dell'Acquanera;
• Floristic, botanical, and photographic exhibition of the species of the Catria Massif, set up in the library;
• Nordic Walking tours with certified instructors;
• workshops and recreational activities for children;
• market exhibition with florists, farms, forest products, and local crafts.

The village and its castle

The backdrop to the event is one of the most beautiful villages in the Marche: Frontone is dominated by the Castello della Porta, an ancient medieval fortress that stands out against the profile of the Catria and is worth a visit in itself. With live music, group dances, liscio, and pizzica, the festival offers a complete immersion into the popular traditions of this corner of the Marche Apennines.