Staying in the heart of the Monti Picentini, this is a short stage but with a significant elevation gain, almost entirely uphill. From Casa Rocchi, we enter the valley of the Sabato River, climbing to 1,068 meters at Varco Colla Finestra. From there, a series of ups and downs through the woods lead to the enchanting Piano di Verteglia, at about 1,200 meters, where you can rest by the Acque della Madonna lake before finding accommodation at the refuge.