Castelluccio di Norcia is a small village (1450 meters above sea level) located 30 km from Norcia, also known as the “roof of Umbria” for its fantastic position atop a hill. In front of it rises the imposing and majestic silhouette of Monte Vettore, the highest peak in the Sibillini Mountains.
The village, which was completely damaged by the 2016 earthquake, overlooks a large karst plateau that originated around one million years ago when a vast depression was formed, initially filled by a lake, and now spans approximately 15 km².
On the Castelluccio plateau, in late spring, between the end of May and the beginning of July, the famous phenomenon of the Flowering takes place, where lentils, cornflowers, gentians, daisies, narcissus, poppies, buttercups, violets, and many other floral species bloom simultaneously, transforming this vast expanse into a multitude of colors, creating an explosion worthy of a famous impressionist painting.
The lentil is the representative product of Castelluccio, unique for its polychrome appearance and small size. In 1997, it received European recognition as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).
During the summer, the surrounding mountains offer numerous trails for trekking enthusiasts and those wishing to take bike rides, horseback rides, or donkey trekking. In winter, the Castelluccio Plain becomes a playground for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts.
Due to its particular updrafts, the Castelluccio plateau is renowned for air sports, where paragliders and hang-gliders find an ideal habitat to soar and admire one of the most beautiful and rich landscapes of the Appennines from above.