Cottages in Pollino National Park

Southern Italy is famous as the toes of the boot and for its immaculate beaches and nice weather. The regions of Basilicata and Calabria are situated in the area and share a national park under the name Pollino. Pollino is the largest national park in Italy and includes two massifs –Pollino and Orsomarso.

We have plenty of accommodation options in the regions of Basilicata and Calabria. Our nature cottages are located in beautiful areas where your main companion will be the landscape and the sounds of birds nearby. Our hosts are at your disposal with help or advice regarding the best places to visit. Otherwise, you can opt in for a contactless stay and enjoy your holiday in peace and quiet.

The nature of southern Italy

Pollino National Park is one of the rare places in Europe where the Bosnian pine tree grows, although in most places it is prevailed by the common beech. This is also the place where the oldest tree in Europe can be seen – it is a Heldreich’s pine and is approximately 1,200 years old.

Another natural attraction in the park are the sulphurous and magnesium water springs called the Calda. They have been thought to have a power to cure illness since ancient times. Nowadays the springs have been turned into a modern thermal center. Another natural thermal pool is the Grotte Delle Ninfe; the water there is mineral and the mud is often used to treat skin problems.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to book a local guide and explore areas which you would otherwise be unable to explore by yourself. The perfect example is the creek of Bosco Magnano. Visit with your kids and hike through the area and enjoy a day of full relaxation.

Activities in the park

Walking paths are available in the park area. Some of them lead to the peaks Dolcedorme, Serra di Crispo and Gole del Raganello. Dolce Dorme is the tallest peak in the park. You can hike it and on a day with nice weather you can see all the way from the Tyrrhenian to the Ionian Sea.

Mountain biking is another popular activity; some of the bike paths are easier and cross the Pollino Plain, while others are more strenuous with an ascend to the peaks. As the park is crossed by many rivers such as Lao, Sinni and Garga, on some of them adrenaline seekers can enjoy rafting. Canoeing is also a possibility on most rivers and streams across the park.

In order to understand the local culture and historical background, head to the village of Rotonda. It is located in the heart of the park and resembles a medieval village with ruins. You can see the Castle of Sanseverino-Bisignano, which is dated from the 15th century, as well as the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Consolazione, which is dated from the 16th century. The sanctuary is filled with breathtaking images on marble which will impress you to say the least.