An averagely demanding ring-route that passes through Arpino, the historical city of Cicero and its fortified Acropolis (7th-6th century BC). Traces of an imposing past can be reached on demanding hairpin bends with little traffic. We descend from Santopadre through the scenic Melfa Gorge, where the emerald waters of the river have opened up solitary passes guarded by the flight of eagles.