Salifaggeta - The Cimini Ascent

A race towards the Ancient Beech Forests of Monte Cimino

The Salifaggeta - The Cimini Ascent is one of the most iconic running races in the Tuscia region: an uphill climb starting from the historic center of Soriano nel Cimino, in the province of Viterbo, and ascending the slopes of Monte Cimino to the Ancient Beech Forests (Faggeta Vetusta), a forest of centuries-old trees recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017. The finish line is more than just a destination; it is one of the most precious natural sites in Lazio, home to some of the tallest and most majestic beech trees in Europe.

The course: 8.5 kilometers of continuous ascent

The track covers 8.5 kilometers with approximately 500 meters of elevation gain. Starting in the heart of the village, overlooked by the Orsini Castle, athletes face a steady climb through the ancient chestnut groves of the Cimini Mountains before reaching the cool air of the summit beech forest. It is a course that rewards endurance and pacing, highly favored by mountain running specialists but accessible to trained runners looking to tackle a spectacular climb.

Soriano Outdoor: a day of sport and nature

The race is the highlight of Soriano Outdoor, a day entirely dedicated to open-air activities. The morning is reserved for families, featuring guided walks and nature experiences through woods and trails; from the afternoon onwards, sports stands open and athlete accreditation begins, leading up to the race start in the late afternoon. This format transforms the competition into a local festival designed for athletes, children, and visitors alike.

A UNESCO heritage site in the heart of Tuscia

The Ancient Beech Forests of Monte Cimino are part of the UNESCO serial site of the Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and other regions of Europe. Running towards this monumental forest means traversing one of the most authentic corners of the Lazio Region: the Viterbo Tuscia, a land of medieval villages, chestnut groves, and rural traditions. Soriano nel Cimino, also famous for its historic Chestnut Festival, finds in the Salifaggeta its signature sporting event.

History of the event

Born as a running challenge towards the town's symbolic mountain, the Salifaggeta reached its eighth edition in 2022 and returns to the calendar in 2026 for its ninth edition, now integrated into the new Soriano Outdoor event. Over the years, the race has established itself as a benchmark for lovers of uphill running in Lazio and Central Italy.

Organization and registration

The event is organized by the Municipality of Soriano nel Cimino and the Pro Loco Soriano nel Cimino, in collaboration with ANCoS APS and ASD Runner Team Viterbo. Registration is handled through the Pro Loco website, where the full regulations and all technical information regarding the course are published.