Traversata Muggesana - Sentiero dell'Arciduca

Today, we’ll explore a section of the renowned "Traversata Muggesana" trail. Our route starts at the scenic Archaeological Park of Muggia Vecchia, home to the charming and well-preserved Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, and finishes by the sea, just past Porto San Rocco marina at MOLO T.

Our walk begins on a paved road that winds through the residential villas of Muggia, before we leave the asphalt behind and enter the Arciduca Forest, named in honor of Archduke Ludwig Salvator of Austria, whose land we will cross. Along the descent, we’ll pass by the Archduke's recently restored villa (not open to the public as it is now privately owned). The path offers stunning glimpses of the Gulf of Trieste, and by following the well-marked CAI trail 1, we’ll reach the dense forest of Punta Olmi, filled with oaks, downy oaks, and black pines. This forest gradually gives way to open clearings with Mediterranean shrub vegetation and reed beds, marking the intersection of the Rio Ronchi stream and the sea.

The trail takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes one way, and the same for the return trip. Suitable for all ages, this route is enjoyable year-round: in summer, the forest’s leafy canopy offers a refreshing break from the heat, while in autumn, the vibrant red of the sumac trees paints the landscape with warm, inviting hues, creating an atmosphere that is simply breathtaking.