Adventures in the Pollino National Park

Take the largest protected area of countryside in Italy, add fir trees, Loricati trees, black pine trees and small villages perched on rocky outcrops. Throw in some ancient folklore and gastronomic treasures and finally, surround it by sea. These are the ingredients for a weekend in the Pollino National Park.

If you spend a good part of the year sitting at a desk, this is a chance to enjoy the great outdoors whether you can to try your hand at hiking, canyoning or rafting. And the good news is that you do not need to be Indiana Jones to enjoy these adventures.

A weekend in the Pollino National Park offers visitors a wide range of things to do, not only for those who are daring or passionate about extreme sports, but also for families with children. Take a guided walk through the Lannello waterfalls, paddle through the gorges, camp along the river banks, or just simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

For those who want more than flora and fauna, explore the cultural and historical culture of the area like the ancient villages of Laino and Mormanno. Visit the hermit caves at Papasidero, a site inhabited 20,000 years ago around the time of ‘homo-sapiens’ and see the prehistoric graffiti.

Visiting the Pollino National Park is an unforgettable journey that does not require Olympic style training beforehand. Everything you need is available in the park including wetsuits, helmets, life jackets, guides and training.
There are just no excuses not to visit.