Lush mountain meadows, deep canyons and craggy peaks make up the vast expanse of Pollino National Park. Spanning 743 square miles (1,925 square kilometers), Pollino National Park is Italy’s largest expanse of protected wilderness and is home to some of the country’s most rare plants and animals. Visit tiny Albanian-speaking towns huddled on the mountainsides or embark on an exciting adventure through Pollino National Park’s diverse landscapes.
Learn about the region by visiting some of the national park’s traditional villages. Hillside Viggianello and pretty Rotonda are not only convenient entry points into the park, but also enchanting places to sample local produce and traditional fare. Check out San Paolo Albanese and San Costantino Albanese. These vestigial villages date back to the 16th century, when Albanian migrants populated the region. Visit the convent in Morano Calabro or see the superb church in Cerchiara.
Discover the park’s network of hiking trails and day-use areas. Explore wildflower-dotted meadows, wooded slopes and grassy summits. Belvedere di Malvento is a popular lookout. More seasoned hikers might also want to take in the views from Serra Dolcedorme and Monte Pollino. Watch for rare stands of Bosnian pine, as well as roe deer, Italian wolves, wildcats and golden eagles. Bring a picnic to enjoy amid the woodland setting or dine at some of the village trattorias and enjoy fresh pasta dishes.
For a faster pace, check out the mountain-biking and horse-riding trails. In winter, go cross-country skiing on the massif’s uplands. Try whitewater rafting on the Lao River.
The Pollino National Park is easy to access from Calabria and Basilicata. Combine your visit with nearby Calabrian coastal resorts, such as Scalea. The closest airport is in Lamezia Terme and the nearest railway line runs along the Tyrrhenian coastline. Go to visitor centers in Viaganello and Rotonda to find out what activities are most suitable during your visit. Guided tours and walking groups are available in these towns. There is no fee to enter the park.
