The Pollino National Park is one of Italy’s last truly wild mountain landscapes and the largest protected area in the country. Stretching across Calabria and Basilicata, this remarkable wilderness is home to dramatic limestone peaks, deep gorges, ancient beech forests, high-altitude plateaus and breathtaking panoramas stretching from the southern Apennines to the Ionian Sea.
This guided hiking adventure has been designed for nature lovers eager to discover one of Italy’s most spectacular national parks on foot. Accompanied by an Official Pollino National Park Guide, we will explore some of the Park’s most iconic trails, combining rewarding hikes with wildlife observation, fascinating geological landscapes and authentic mountain culture.
Late October is undoubtedly one of the most magical times to visit Pollino. The forests burst into brilliant shades of gold, orange and crimson, creating one of the finest autumn foliage displays in southern Europe. Comfortable temperatures, crystal-clear air and warm autumn light provide the perfect setting for hiking, landscape photography and simply enjoying the beauty of the season.
One of the undisputed highlights of the tour is the legendary Bosnian Pine (Pinus heldreichii), the emblem of Pollino National Park. Growing on the Park’s highest rocky ridges, these extraordinary trees are living relics of the last Ice Age. Twisted by centuries of wind, snow and harsh mountain weather, some individuals are over 500 years old, making them among the oldest and most iconic trees in Europe.
As with all our tours, biodiversity lies at the heart of the experience. Ancient forests, alpine grasslands and rocky cliffs provide habitat for a remarkable variety of wildlife, while the journey also offers the chance to discover picturesque mountain villages such as Civita, famous for its Arbëreshë heritage and spectacular views over the Raganello Gorges. Blending hiking, nature, geology and local traditions, this tour showcases one of the most authentic and rewarding mountain experiences in southern Italy.
- Pollino National Park: Covering more than 190,000 hectares, Pollino National Park is the largest protected area in Italy and one of the wildest regions of the southern Apennines. Its mountains encompass an extraordinary diversity of habitats, ranging from ancient beech forests and high-altitude grasslands to dramatic limestone cliffs and deep river gorges. This remarkable mosaic of ecosystems supports a rich biodiversity, with numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and an exceptional flora characterized by many Apennine and Balkan endemic species. The undisputed symbol of the Park is the Bosnian Pine (Pinus heldreichii), a remarkable glacial relict that grows on the massif’s most rugged rocky ridges and is considered one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic trees.
- Medieval villages: Nestled at the foot of the mountains are some of the most authentic villages in southern Italy, where history, culture and local traditions blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape. Charming settlements such as Civita, San Lorenzo Bellizzi and Alessandria del Carretto preserve a rich architectural heritage, centuries-old traditions and outstanding local cuisine. Wandering through their narrow streets, picturesque squares and panoramic viewpoints provides the perfect complement to the hiking experience, offering an authentic insight into the history and identity of the Pollino region.
The Pollino National Park hosts a rich mountain fauna, including species of great interest such as the Italian Wolf (Canis lupus italicus), Red Deer (Cervus elaphus), Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus), Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), Italian Hare (Lepus corsicanus) and European Porcupine (Hystrix cristata). During our hikes, particular attention will be dedicated to reading the signs left by wildlife, such as tracks, feeding marks and other evidence of animal presence, allowing us to better understand the ecology of these mountain environments. With a little luck, some of the Park’s most fascinating inhabitants may also be observed directly.
The Park’s spectacular rocky cliffs and extensive forests provide ideal habitats for a variety of remarkable bird species, including Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus), Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis), Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius), Middle Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos medius) and Red-billed Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax).
The forests, mountain streams and high-altitude slopes of Pollino also support a remarkable diversity of smaller wildlife. During autumn, especially on mild and sunny days, some species of amphibians and reptiles associated with mountain habitats may still be active and encountered along the trails. The flora is another outstanding feature of the Park: alongside the iconic Bosnian Pine (Pinus heldreichii), the symbol of Pollino, the area preserves ancient beech forests and a rich variety of plant species typical of Apennine and Mediterranean ecosystems.
DAY 1: Meeting in San Lorenzo Bellizzi and accommodation at the lodge. In the afternoon, a nature excursion to the Santuario di Santa Maria and Monte Sellaro, enjoying spectacular views over the Pollino massif, rocky landscapes and mountain forests. Dinner and overnight stay in San Lorenzo Bellizzi.
DAY 2: Excursion dedicated to discovering the famous Bosnian Pines, the symbol of Pollino National Park, surrounded by the spectacular high-altitude landscapes of the massif. In the afternoon, aperitif at a local farm, discovering the traditional products and local heritage of the area. Dinner and overnight stay in San Lorenzo Bellizzi.
DAY 3: Excursion in the area of Alessandria del Carretto and Monte Sparviere, crossing forests, mountain grasslands and landscapes of outstanding natural beauty. The day will be dedicated to observing the Park’s biodiversity and discovering the geological and natural features that make this territory unique. Dinner and overnight stay in San Lorenzo Bellizzi.
DAY 4: Excursion to Colle Marcione, through beech forests and mountain habitats of Pollino National Park, with hiking activities and nature observation. In the afternoon, free visit of Civita, one of the most picturesque villages of the area, overlooking the spectacular Raganello Gorges. Lunch in Civita and end of the tour.
Transfers and car pooling:
For group tours, the tour leader will arrange car pooling from Naples. We are also happy to assist participants travelling from Rome in coordinating the most suitable travel solution. For private tours, pick-up arrangements from Rome, Naples or other locations can be agreed directly with the client, depending on availability and specific requirements.
The schedule may be subject to minor changes depending on weather conditions, trail conditions and organisational requirements, in order to ensure the best possible experience while prioritising safety.
Event Tour – 22-25 October 2026
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Fixed weekend tour.
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Price per person: starting from €780 (full package, drinks excluded)
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Open to both Italian and English-speaking participants.
Private & Tailor-Made Tours
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Rates for private tours depend on the number of participants, duration, and activities included.
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For more information and a personalised quote, please contact the organisers.
What is included:
- Overnight stays.
- Meals (3 breakfasts, 1 lunch at a restaurant, 3 dinners at the accommodation).
- Scientific guidance by a zoologist throughout the entire journey, including support material for wildlife observations (binoculars, telescope, field guides, etc.).
- Expert hiking guide from Pollino National Park for the entire duration of the tour.
- Basic medical and luggage insurance.
What’s not included:
- Everything not mentioned in the previous item.
During the tour, accommodation will be provided in a recently renovated property located in the historic village of San Lorenzo Bellizzi, in the heart of Pollino National Park. The building has been restored while preserving its connection with the local architecture and traditions, offering a comfortable and functional base for a nature-focused experience.
The accommodation is organised into several independent units, featuring private bathrooms and a combination of double and single beds. Depending on the composition of the group, participants may share some of the living spaces, while still maintaining appropriate comfort and privacy.
Its location within the village allows guests to experience the authentic atmosphere of San Lorenzo Bellizzi, while being conveniently close to the Park’s main trails and natural attractions. The property represents an ideal base for daily excursions, combining easy access to the surrounding landscapes with the charm and traditions of a genuine Pollino mountain village.
Information regarding rates, sale conditions and payment methods will be communicated by email after filling in the request form.
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