Monte Camicia Vertical

A vertical kilometer at the foot of Monte Camicia

The Monte Camicia Vertical is one of the most spectacular mountain races in the central Apennines. It takes place in Castel del Monte, one of Italy's most beautiful villages, located on the Campo Imperatore plateau in the Province of L'Aquila, in the heart of Abruzzo and the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park. The competition is organized by the Polisportiva Castel del Monte and is part of the Abruzzo Vertical Cup - Trofeo La Sportiva circuit, which brings together the premier vertical races of the Abruzzo Apennines.

The route: from Fonte Vetica to the iconic mountain of the Gran Sasso

The start is set at Fonte Vetica, a famous plateau at the foot of Monte Camicia and a key reference point for hikers and mountain lovers. From here, athletes face a continuous climb along the Vallone di Vradda toward the summit of Monte Camicia (2,564 m), one of the most imposing and recognizable peaks of the Gran Sasso d'Italia massif, famous for its massive "paginone," the dizzying north face.

• Distance: approximately 3.5 km
• Elevation gain: just over 1,000 meters
• Type: vertical kilometer
• Start: mass start from Fonte Vetica

A unique atmosphere between sport and nature

The charm of the Monte Camicia Vertical lies in the combination of the athletic intensity of a vertical race and the pristine beauty of the scenery: high-altitude pastures and panoramic views of Campo Imperatore and the Gran Sasso range accompany athletes every meter of the way. The race requires a competitive medical certificate and is open to experienced mountain runners. Afterward, the awards ceremony is held in the village of Castel del Monte, featuring traditional Abruzzese hospitality and a pasta party for all participants.

In the heart of the Abruzzo Vertical Cup

The Monte Camicia Vertical is one of the most anticipated stages of the Abruzzo Vertical Cup circuit, which traverses the most evocative mountains and villages in the region. It is an event that combines a passion for skyrunning with the discovery of the Gran Sasso territory, steeped in pastoral traditions, transhumance, and high-mountain landscapes. Running toward the summit of Monte Camicia means experiencing an authentic blend of sport and nature in the heart of Abruzzo.