The best walks and hikes in Calabria

Embark on the Monte Sant'Elia loop tour, a moderate hike that rewards you with spectacular panoramic views over the Costa Viola. This route covers 6.1 miles (9.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1167 feet (356 metres), taking approximately 3 hours and 1 minute to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, from Mediterranean scrub and wooded areas with maritime pines to narrow paths, all leading to exceptional vistas of Sicily and active volcanoes like Etna and Stromboli from the lookout point with three crosses.

This trail requires good fitness and sure-footedness, as you will encounter sections with easy climbing and potentially overgrown paths. Some parts of the route, particularly during the descent towards Palmi, can be narrow and dense with fern or thorny brambles. Recent reports suggest that certain sections might be impassable due to collapses or very high vegetation, so it is wise to check current conditions before you plan your visit. Consider hiking in June to experience dreamlike flower meadows.

Monte Sant'Elia is famously known as the "balcony on the Tyrrhenian Sea," offering one of the world's most beautiful panoramas thanks to its unique geological conformation. Historically, the mountain, once called "Aulinas," holds significance with the Byzantine monk Elias the Younger, who founded a coenoby here in the 9th century AD. The trail's path along the Costa Viola, a designated Special Protection Area, also highlights its ecological value, while ancient tales like the "Legend of the Devil's Stone" enrich the cultural journey.

Embark on the Colli Perilli ring tour, a challenging hike through the Sila National Park in Calabria, Italy. This popular route spans 6.7 miles (10.8 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1493 feet (455 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 12 minutes to complete. You'll navigate varied terrain, from dense beech and conifer forests to unpaved, rocky sections, with steeper climbs leading to panoramic views of Lago Arvo and Lago Ampollino. The highlight is the 360-degree vista from Croce dei Laghi, offering sights of Monte Botte Donato and other peaks.

As a difficult hike, this trail demands a good level of fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy hiking shoes. While the metadata suggests a duration of 4 hours and 12 minutes, plan for up to 5.5 hours to fully enjoy the experience and account for stops. The trail is part of a well-signposted network within the Sila National Park, maintained according to CAI conventions, which provides clear indications of difficulty and points of interest, helping you plan your journey effectively.

This route is highly regarded by hikers for its exceptional panoramic views, particularly from the Croce dei Laghi, often cited as one of the most scenic spots in the Sila region. The Sila National Park itself is known for being one of Italy's most heavily wooded areas and is celebrated for its remarkably pure air, often called the "lungs of the Mediterranean." You'll encounter ancient forests, including centuries-old larch pines, adding to the unique natural appeal of this challenging and rewarding adventure.

Embark on an easy hike from Orsomarso to the captivating Ficara Waterfall, a journey through the Argentino River Valley Nature Reserve. This route spans 4.1 miles (6.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 517 feet (158 metres), taking about 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will wind through dense forests, accompanied by the tranquil sounds of the Argentino River. The highlight is the 10-meter (approximately 33 feet) high Ficara Waterfall, a beautiful cascade fed by the Ficara canal.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-signposted and starts conveniently near a parking area. The paths are easily accessible, making this an ideal hike for nearly all fitness levels. Some sections are natural, while others are paved or on roads, offering varied terrain. You can enjoy this easy route without needing special equipment or advanced hiking experience.

This trail is located within the Valle del Fiume Argentino Nature Reserve, which is part of the larger Pollino National Park and recognized as a UNESCO World Geopark site. The area is rich in biodiversity, offering chances to spot wildlife like roe deer, wild boars, foxes, and hares. Beyond its natural beauty, the valley holds historical significance as an ancient trade and travel route. The village of Orsomarso itself provides a charming starting point, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage.

Embark on the Gambarie - ring tour - Aspromonte National Park, a moderate hike spanning 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with an elevation gain of 1581 feet (482 metres). This route typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, including unpaved paths through extensive forests of beech, silver fir, chestnut, and oak, alongside some paved street sections. A highlight is the Vallescura Waterfall, part of the enchanting "Path of the Fairies," and on clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea to Mount Etna. The trail requires good fitness and sure-footedness, aligning with a moderate difficulty rating.

Gambarie itself is a charming mountain resort, serving as a key hub for outdoor activities within the park, providing amenities and easy access to the trail. While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking details, its location within a well-established resort suggests convenient starting points. This popular route is known for its blend of natural beauty and accessible paths, making it a favorite among local hikers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

The Aspromonte National Park, recognized as part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network since 2021, offers unique geological features like the "fiumare," ephemeral riverbeds that cut through gorges. The trail's popularity stems from its scenic beauty, the presence of tranquil waterfalls, and its location within this protected area. This combination of a resort town and diverse natural landscapes makes the Gambarie ring tour a notable experience for visitors.

Embark on an easy hike to the Cascate del Maesano, a captivating route through the Aspromonte National Park. This trail spans 2.3 miles (3.7 km) with an elevation gain of 397 feet (121 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete. You will wander through lush beech, fir, and pine forests, often following the Menta Torrent. The main highlight is the Maesano Waterfalls, a series of three to five cascades that create striking emerald-green pools. From panoramic viewpoints, you can enjoy wide vistas of the Aspromonte region, and on clear days, even spot Sicily and the Aeolian Islands.

To begin your adventure, you can often start near the Menta Dam or a clay car park close to the Menta Torrent. Some guided treks depart from Gambarie d'Aspromonte. The initial section leading to a viewpoint overlooking the waterfalls is generally well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels. If you choose to descend to the base of the waterfalls, be aware that this part becomes more challenging, with uneven or slippery sections, so sturdy footwear and sure-footedness are recommended.

What makes this trail special is not just the impressive waterfalls and their inviting pools, but also the rich natural environment. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including rare amphibians like the Spectacled and Spotted Salamanders, or the southern black squirrel. The dense, unspoiled woodlands offer an authentic natural encounter. This area is also steeped in local culture, known by shepherds and mountain people by its evocative local name, "U Schiucciu da spana."

Prepare for a difficult hike through the serene Forest Trails of Parco Nazionale della Sila. This route covers 2.8 miles (4.4 km) and climbs 443 feet (135 metres), taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete. You will find yourself immersed in lush woodlands, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Keep an eye out for the historical La Carbonara Charcoal Kilns as you make your way through the forest. The challenging terrain makes this a rewarding experience for active hikers.

The Bosco del Corvo Trail is located within Sila National Park. Before you head out, it is always a good idea to check local conditions for any updates on snow, road closures, or permit requirements. Make sure you have appropriate gear for a difficult hike, including sturdy footwear to handle the terrain and enough water to stay hydrated. Planning your visit carefully will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Sila National Park. Beyond the physical challenge, you will discover a tranquil environment that provides a true escape from daily life. The presence of the La Carbonara Charcoal Kilns also adds a historical dimension, giving you a glimpse into the region's past industries. It is a notable route for those seeking both adventure and a connection to nature.

The Naturalistic Path of the Scialata – ring tour offers a moderate hiking experience through a diverse landscape in Calabria, Italy. You will follow the Levadìo river, encountering numerous waterfalls like "Fellare" and "Crisafi" as you pass through dense forests of alder, poplar, and chestnut trees. The trail features imposing granite rocks and wooden bridges, creating a lush environment. This 5.4-mile (8.7 km) loop involves an elevation gain of 856 feet (261 metres) and typically takes about 2 hours and 34 minutes to complete. In the beginning, you can enjoy panoramic views of the coast before diving deeper into the wooded sections with their small water jumps and ponds. While generally considered moderate, some parts might be simpler, making it accessible for various skill levels.

Before you head out, be aware of potential access challenges. Recent reports indicate that a missing bridge might make a section of the river crossing impossible, so check local conditions beforehand. Additionally, poor road conditions leading to the trailhead have been noted due to storm damage, which could affect your drive to the starting point. The trail leads to the Oasis of Scialata in Cannavarè, which has a mineral water spring and an equipped picnic area, perfect for a break.

What makes this trail special is its abundance of natural waterways and waterfalls, offering constant surprises as you follow the Levadìo stream. The name "Scialata" itself translates to "great fun" in the local dialect, hinting at the enjoyable experience it provides. The unique combination of coastal panoramas and lush, waterfall-filled forests, along with distinct granite formations, sets this route apart. You will find yourself immersed in a natural environment rich with diverse flora and geological features.

Embark on the Waterfalls Trail, an easy hike that guides you through a humid, dense forest filled with ancient trees and abundant mosses. This route covers 2.1 miles (3.4 km) with an elevation gain of 561 feet (171 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 9 minutes to complete. You will discover the spectacular Mundu Waterfall and Galasia Waterfall, where water cascades impressively, creating a refreshing atmosphere.

When planning your visit, note that the trail is generally considered easy, making it suitable for various fitness levels. While much of the path is shaded, be aware that some sections can be rocky. The ascent from the base of Galasia Waterfall might present a slightly more challenging part of the hike. Parking is usually available near the trailhead, but it is always a good idea to check local conditions before you go.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Aspromonte National Park. As you hike, keep an eye out for the rare *Woodwardia radicans*, a prehistoric fern that adds to the trail's distinct, primordial feel. Some parts of the route also provide panoramic views stretching towards the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering a broader perspective of the landscape.

Embark on the Civita – Pollino National Park – loop tour, a moderate hike that takes about 4 hours and 4 minutes to complete. This 8.0-mile (13.0 km) route features an elevation gain of 1553 feet (473 metres) as you traverse a landscape of dramatic mountain peaks and unique geological formations. You will encounter deep river gorges, including the impressive Raganello Gorge with its overhanging rocky walls and the picturesque Devil's Bridge. The path itself varies, with sections of unpaved, paved, and gravel surfaces, winding through ancient forests of silver fir and beech trees.

To enjoy this moderate hike, you should have good fitness and be sure-footed, as the varied terrain requires careful navigation. The trail starts from the charming village of Civita, which offers panoramic views as you begin your journey. While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking details, planning for a full half-day outing is advisable given the duration and elevation.

This loop tour is set within Pollino National Park, Italy's largest national park, offering a pristine wilderness experience. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, from dolomitic rocks and limestone formations to lush plateaus and high-altitude pastures. A highlight of the route is the chance to see the iconic Loricato Pines, often called "living fossils," which are a protected species unique to this region. The village of Civita itself adds a cultural layer, with its rich history and distinct Albanian heritage.