Last-minute Easter Monday: 6 nature walks worth taking

Quick ideas for an outdoor Easter Monday

Easter Monday is a great opportunity to leave the city and spend a day outside. Below are six accessible walks across Italy—lake loops, coastal trails, waterfalls and scenic countryside—suitable for a day trip and easy to arrange at short notice.

• Lago di Barcis loop (Friuli-Venezia Giulia) — difficulty: moderate

  A circular route around the lake with shaded sections and panoramic viewpoints over turquoise water. Good for picnics and short stops. Tips: wear light hiking shoes, bring water and check for seasonal parking availability.

• Cannobio – Sant'Anna via Sant'Agata (Piedmont) — difficulty: moderate

  Trail above Lake Maggiore alternating lake views and streamside sections. Great for scenic day outings without extreme effort. Tips: bring a light jacket; ridge sections can be breezy.

• Monte Gelato Waterfalls via Mazzano Romano (Lazio) — difficulty: moderate

  Walk through the Treja Valley Park to natural waterfalls, with shaded riverbanks and rocky stretches. Tips: use shoes with good grip and be cautious on slippery surfaces.

• Greve in Chianti loop – Montefioralle (Tuscany) — difficulty: moderate

  Route through vineyards, dirt roads and the medieval village of Montefioralle. Relaxed countryside atmosphere, ideal for a social day out. Tips: check opening hours of local cafés if planning a longer stop.

• Murgia Park – Rock Churches of Matera (Basilicata) — difficulty: moderate

  Route combining wild landscapes and historical rock-cut churches, with vast views over gorges and the Sassi. Tips: carry a map or tracking app; phone signal can be patchy in some sections.

• Vignanotica – Mergoli, Gargano (Puglia) — difficulty: moderate

  Coastal trail linking two scenic bays, with pinewoods and sea vistas. Perfect for combining a walk with beach views. Tips: sunscreen, water and shoes suitable for rocky terrain.

Practical tips: check the weather forecast, bring enough water and snacks, dress in layers and carry a basic first-aid kit. Use reliable maps or trail apps for navigation and respect nature: stick to marked paths and take your rubbish with you.