Monte di Mezzo
An ascent for very experienced hikers that leads to the sharp median peak of Tre Pizzi (1350 m). The effort is rewarded by the high geological and botanical value of the route and, above all, by the wonderful panoramic view that can be enjoyed from its summit over a large part of Campania.
• Length: About 5.5 Km
• Travel time: About 3 h 30 m
• Start point: Paipo, Bomerano
Information on values and points of interest
The value of this excursion lies mainly in the "sporty" aspect and in the satisfaction of being able to reach a mountainous peak with steep sides, fairly sharp ridges and small rocky walls, which sometimes also require the commitment of the hands.
The rocks in layers and sub-horizontal banks on which it advances, are marine limestones of the lower Cretaceous period, locally rich in fossil shells (lamellibranch species of the genus Requienia); towards the peaks there are also marly levels. The vegetation is reduced to steppe patches and isolated trees that exploit the soil trapped in fractures and karst furrows. Interesting is the view from the top of the great landslide that collapsed a few years ago from the summit cliff of Monte Catello (SW side), and which gave rise to an avalanche of debris that accumulated in the underlying Vallone Porto; fortunately without reaching inhabited areas.
After remembering that on similar terrain the views can only be admired when stationary, let's say that the stretch from Capo Muro at an altitude of 1200 m offers a wide view of Agerola, Monte Tre Calli and the underlying coastal escarpment between Vettica Maggiore and Positano. From the top of Monte di Mezzo you can admire the other culminations of the Tre Pizzi up close and, at a greater distance, the view sweeps over Naples, Vesuvius, the Piana di Pompei, the eastern Lattari Mountains, the Gulf of Salerno and the reliefs that surround.
Route information
This is a rough and poorly signposted route that is recommended only for those with climbing practice and good orientation skills.
From Casino di Paipo continue until the asphalt ends to change into a dirt road. After an initial slightly uphill stretch, you climb along the stony ground that leads to the rock "mushroom" of Capo Muro. From here, turn left (towards the north) and face the southern edge of Monte Catello (1393 m) in free ascent, following its slight curvature towards the west. Before reaching the top, towards an altitude of 1300 m, you leave the edge you have followed so far to turn left, cross the spur upstream that stretches towards the South West (altitude 1331 m) and - heading north - you go to the saddle at an altitude of 1335 m, which separates the top of Monte Catello from the top of Monte di Mezzo. Finally, on the latter you go up the sharp and steep ridge that starts from said saddle. Return by the same route.