3 day itinerary for Parco Nazionale Del Pollino

Itinerary

Spending three days in Parco Nazionale del Pollino sounds like a fantastic family adventure! This stunning national park, straddling the regions of Calabria and Basilicata in southern Italy, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and charming villages. Let’s create a relaxed and family-friendly itinerary that allows you to soak in the beauty of nature while enjoying some quality time together.

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Park

Morning:

• Arrival in the Park: Start your day by arriving at the park. If you’re coming from a nearby city, aim to get there by mid-morning.
• Visitor Center: Head to the [Visitor Center in Rotonda](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Visitor%20Center%20in%20[Rotonda](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Rotonda&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). It’s a great place to gather information about the park, pick up maps, and get tips on family-friendly trails.

Lunch:

• Picnic in Nature: Pack a picnic lunch or grab some local snacks from a nearby café. Find a nice spot in the park, perhaps near the Fiume Mercure, where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by nature.

Afternoon:

• Easy Hike: After lunch, take a leisurely hike on the Sentiero del Brigante trail. It’s a relatively easy path that’s suitable for families and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Keep an eye out for local wildlife!

Evening:

• Dinner in a Local Village: Head to the nearby village of Rotonda for dinner. Try some local dishes like pasta alla 'nduja or caciocavallo cheese. Many restaurants are family-friendly and offer a cozy atmosphere.

## Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation

Morning:

• Visit to the Pollino Mountains: After breakfast, drive to the Pollino Mountains area. The views are absolutely stunning! Consider a short drive to Piani di Pollino, where you can enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Lunch:

• Lunch at a Mountain Refuge: There are several mountain refuges where you can enjoy a hearty meal. Try the local specialties and enjoy the rustic ambiance.

Afternoon:

• Family-Friendly Activities: After lunch, engage in some family-friendly activities. You can try horseback riding or even a guided nature walk. Many local guides offer tours that are suitable for families and can tailor the experience to your interests.

Evening:

• Relaxing Evening: Head back to your accommodation and unwind. If you’re staying in a cabin or a rural B&B, enjoy some family games or storytelling time.

## Day 3: Cultural Exploration and Departure

Morning:

• Visit a Local Village: Start your day with a visit to Castrovillari, a charming town near the park. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Castello Aragonese, and enjoy the local shops.

Lunch:

• Lunch in Castrovillari: Find a local trattoria for lunch. Enjoy some fresh, homemade pasta or a delicious pizza.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Gardens: After lunch, visit the Giardini di Villa Comunale in Castrovillari. It’s a lovely green space where the kids can run around, and you can relax under the trees.

Evening:

• Departure: Depending on your travel plans, you can either head back home or spend a little more time exploring the area. If you have time, consider stopping by Cosenza on your way back for a quick stroll through its historic center.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Pack Snacks: Always have some snacks and water on hand, especially for the kids.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Check the Weather: The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared with layers.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Parco Nazionale del Pollino! Enjoy your family adventure! 🌲🏞️