The best walks and hikes around San Lorenzo

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."

If you are looking for a challenging hike, the Amendolèa ring tour in Aspromonte National Park offers a demanding adventure. This difficult route stretches for 10.3 miles (16.6 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2620 feet (799 metres), requiring very good fitness and sure-footedness. You can expect to spend around 5 hours and 37 minutes exploring its rugged terrain, which includes riverbeds and diverse forests of chestnut and oak trees. Along the way, you'll encounter impressive monolithic rock formations in the "Valle delle Grandi Pietre" and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Fiumara Amendolèa and the Tyrrhenian Sea in the distance. The trail also leads to the four-tiered Amendolea Falls, where you might even find pools for swimming.

Before you set out on this hard hike, be aware that it requires sturdy shoes and alpine experience. It is crucial to carry an adequate water supply, as there are no fountains available along the route. The trail's varied landscapes, from ancient ruins to twisted beech trees, make it a rewarding experience, but proper preparation is key for a safe and enjoyable journey.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Amendolèa area is rich in history and unique features. You will pass by Amendolèa Vecchia, a ruined 12th-century town abandoned after a flood, offering a glimpse into the region's past. The entire Aspromonte National Park, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2021, boasts extraordinary biodiversity with over 1,500 plant species. This relatively untamed nature provides a peaceful haven away from crowds, combining breathtaking landscapes of both sea and mountains.

Embark on a moderate hike to Lago del Menta (Stausee), a serene artificial lake nestled within Aspromonte National Park. This route spans 6.1 miles (9.8 km) and involves a 629 feet (192 metres) elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. As you traverse the easily accessible paths, you'll journey through lush forests, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. On clear days, you might even catch glimpses of the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, and the distant peak of Mount Etna. While the terrain is generally manageable, sure-footedness is recommended as you explore this beautiful area of crystalline granite soil.

This moderate trail requires good fitness, but its paths are generally accessible for most skill levels. The route begins from a parking area, making it convenient for those arriving by car. While the paths are mostly accessible, you should be sure-footed, especially given the crystalline granite soil common in the Aspromonte region. The trail is suitable for most hikers looking for a rewarding experience in nature.

Lago del Menta itself is an artificial lake, created by the Menta Dam, a significant hydraulic construction completed in the 2000s to supply water to Reggio Calabria. Sitting at an altitude of 1,431 meters above sea level, the lake is considered an oasis of peace and beauty within Aspromonte. You can also find other natural attractions nearby, such as the Menta-Amendolea Waterfall, located about 2 km from the lake's base, and in winter, the lake's western side can offer a unique visual with ice cover.

Embark on a difficult 12.1-mile (19.4 km) hike through the rugged terrain of Greek Calabria, gaining 3114 feet (949 metres) over approximately 7 hours. You will traverse ancient olive groves and seasonal riverbeds, known as fiumare, enjoying panoramic views from Amendolea. The route leads you through charming Greek-speaking villages like Gallicianò, where traditions are still alive. Expect diverse landscapes, from Mediterranean scrub to natural pine forests, making for a challenging yet rewarding journey.

This demanding route requires good fitness and sure-footedness, so be prepared for significant elevation changes. It is wise to carry plenty of water, as sources may be scarce along the way. Sturdy shoes are essential, and some sections might even require alpine experience. While generally passable year-round, you should avoid periods of intense heat and months when fiumare might flood. Always check conditions regarding stream flow before you set out.

This section of the Sentiero dell'Inglese offers a unique blend of history and culture, retracing the journey of English landscape painter Edward Lear from 1847. You will experience the vibrant Greek-Calabrian culture in villages like Gallicianò, an area where ancient Greek traditions still thrive. Situated within the Aspromonte National Park, the trail showcases significant biodiversity and varied landscapes, from mountains to distant coastal views. This evocative journey is part of a larger multi-day trek, offering a deep dive into a land of ancient charm.