The best walks and hikes around Cerchiara Di Calabria

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.

Embark on the Lago Duglia and Lago Fondo Loop, a moderate hike through the lush landscapes of Pollino National Park. This route spans 6.6 miles (10.6 km) and involves an elevation gain of 1226 feet (374 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You'll discover the tranquil waters of Lago Duglia, offering a peaceful spot to pause, before continuing to Lago Fondo, known for its unique natural beauty. The trail also guides you along sections of an ancient railway track, surrounded by the park's characteristic greenery and majestic Loricato Pines.

This moderate hike is best suited for those with good physical fitness and sure-footedness, as you will encounter varied terrain with some sections requiring careful footing. While there are no specific warnings about permits or seasonal closures, always be prepared for changing conditions in the park. Near Lago Duglia, you will find a convenient rest area equipped with picnic facilities and a water refill point, making it an ideal spot for a break.

The Lago Duglia and Lago Fondo Loop offers a deep dive into the natural heritage of Pollino National Park. You will experience the unique biological significance of Lago Fondo and pass by the serene Lago Duglia. Keep an eye out for the iconic Loricato Pines, which are a true symbol of this protected area, as you traverse the path.

The Sellaro Trail offers a challenging hike through the Pollino National Park, covering 2.4 miles (3.8 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1119 feet (341 metres). You'll find yourself ascending through limestone landscapes and past sturdy oak trees, eventually reaching open pasture meadows. This difficult route, estimated to take around 2 hours and 2 minutes, culminates at the summit of Mount Sellaro. From there, you can enjoy expansive 360-degree views of the park, the Ionian Sea, and the Sibari Plain.

Before you set out on the Sellaro Trail, be aware that it's classified as difficult, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. You should wear sturdy hiking shoes, and some technical sections mean prior experience is helpful. The trail begins directly from the historic Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Armi. While parking details aren't specified, plan your arrival to account for this starting point.

What makes this trail particularly special is its starting point at the ancient Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Armi. This Byzantine-era site is embedded directly into the rock, adding a profound cultural and historical layer to your outdoor adventure. As you hike, you're not just experiencing natural beauty but also stepping through centuries of history.

The Colle Marcione alla Timpa del Principe ring tour is a difficult hike in Italy's Pollino National Park, covering 5.1 miles (8.2 km) with a significant 1625 feet (495 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging route, which takes about 3 hours and 24 minutes, follows a ridge connecting Colle Marciano with Monte Manfriana. You will traverse natural, unpaved paths, including alpine sections, and reach the peak of Timpa del Principe at 1741 meters. Look out for the beautiful "La Fagosa" beech forest to the north of the path.

Before you set out on this difficult trail, ensure you have a good level of physical fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy hiking footwear. Some alpine experience is also recommended for the challenging terrain. The starting point for the Colle Marcione alla Timpa del Principe ring tour is conveniently located near a parking area, making access straightforward. Be prepared for a demanding hike that requires careful planning.

This challenging ring tour stands out within the naturally rich Pollino National Park. As you hike along Monte Manfriana, you may encounter ancient, man-sculpted boulders, which are thought to have possibly been part of a temple, adding a unique historical and cultural dimension to your journey. The Pollino National Park is known for its extensive network of trails that offer significant historical, cultural, and scenic value.