Lucanian Apennine National Park

Lucano Val d’Agri Lagonegrese Apennines National Park, also known as Lucanian Apennines National Park, is a nature reserve located in southern Italy, in the regions of Basilicata and Calabria. It features breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity and numerous opportunities for nature excursions. Below I will provide some routes that you can explore within the park:

  1. Orchid Trail (Castronuovo di Sant’Andrea): This 3-kilometer trail will take you through a variety of habitats, where you can see different species of orchids that bloom between April and June. It is an excellent choice for lovers of local plants and flora.
  2. Waterfall Trail (San Fele): This trail will take you through a scenic route along a series of waterfalls and gorges. You will enjoy spectacular views and make stops to cool off in the crystal clear waters of the falls. Be sure to bring suitable hiking shoes, as the ground can be slippery.
  3. Sentiero delle Vette (Pietrapertosa): If you are an avid trekker and want to admire breathtaking views, this trail is perfect for you. It will take you to the peaks of the surrounding mountains, such as Mt. Impiso and Mt. Alps. Along the way, you will enjoy panoramic views of the entire park and the valleys below.
  4. Wolf Trail (Viggiano): This trail is dedicated to the observation of the Apennine wolf, a protected species within the park. Along the trail, you will find signposts and information panels that will provide information on the biology and behavior of these fascinating animals. It is advisable to do this excursion with an experienced guide to increase the chances of sightings.
  5. Trail of the Grancia (Sarconi): This trail will take you to discover an ancient agricultural complex, the Grancia of Sarconi, which dates back to the 16th century. You can explore historic buildings, mills and warehouses, admiring traditional architecture and learning about the history of the area. Along the trail, you can also enjoy beautiful natural landscapes.

Remember to check with Lucanian Apennine National Park for up-to-date information on routes, trail conditions, and to arrange for possible guided tours.