Note there are two routes to get to the castle. Both are accessible for children. One begins at the main thoroughfare Tiburtina Valeria, where there is a parking area. This is a 7km ring path and is well marked.
The following route is the simpler route and starts from the historic centre.
STARTNG POINT: San Lorenzo Church, historic centre Popoli
END POINT: Cantelmo Castle, Popoli
TRAVEL TIME: 40 minutes roundtrip
LENGTH: 2km
DIFFICULTY Italian Alpine Club rating: T- Turistico (Tourist – Easy)
POINTS OF INTEREST: Walking through the old town, Castello Cantelmo and views of the surrounding area.
See Popoli entry for more info
WATER FOUNTAIN: At San Lorenzo Church (starting point)
RECOMMENDED TIME OF YEAR: The walk is most enjoyable in Spring with the wildflowers. After heavy rains the track may be muddy. It is not recommended to do this walk during the day in the peak of summer.
DESCRIPTION OF WALK
Begin this walk from the historic centre of Popoli at San Lorenzo Church. Turn right and keep taking the sets of stairs up through the old town. Take your time to enjoy the views over Popoli and surrounding area. There is a water fountain on the way up, near San Lorenzo church – take water from here for the journey. After about 5 minutes of walking up stairs you will come to a dirt track with a signpost.
SS Trinita Church & San Lorenzo Church stairs – walk starts here 
Walking in old town to track Start of the track On the way up Cantelmo Castle ruins Cantelmo Castle ruins
The walk through pine forest takes about 15 minutes but the steep climb is worth it for the views and the 12th century Cantelmo Castle. Although the castle is in ruins it is undergoing restoration works and still retains its mysticism.
You can add a self- guided walking tour of Popoli historic centre click here
MORE INFO: 15 – Castello Cantelmo (parcomajella.it)