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A weathered loricato pine on the Serra di Crispo
Pollino, Maratea & the south

Pollino National Park travel guide

Where to base yourself, what to eat and how to plan hikes in the Pollino.

Areas: where to base yourself

  • Rotonda and Viggianello: closest to the high plains and the A2.
  • Terranova di Pollino: for the eastern trails.
  • San Severino Lucano: for the sanctuary and the forests.

Food and drink

Mountain cooking: mushrooms, cheeses, cured meats, legumes and the red aubergine of Rotonda. Many agriturismi serve their own produce.

Money-saving tips

  • Agriturismi often include dinner at a good price.
  • Many trails are free to walk without a guide.

Safety

Mountain weather can change fast. Carry water, layers and a map, tell someone your route, and consider a guide for high routes. Phone signal is patchy.

Sample plans

Two days

Day 1: Serra di Crispo hike from the Piani di Pollino. Day 2: rafting on the Lao.

Four days

Add the Madonna del Pollino, the Arbëreshë villages and a forest walk.

Where to stay in Pollino National Park

Village hotels, mountain refuges and B&Bs. Five to look at first, on Booking.com:

Il Borgo Ospitale

📍 Rotonda
Mid-range

An albergo diffuso with rooms spread through the village of Rotonda.

Le Chalet del Pollino

📍 Rotonda
Mid-range

Chalets in a natural setting near Rotonda, highly rated by guests.

Rifugio Fasanelli

📍 Rotonda
Mid-range

A mountain refuge with rooms, a good starting point for walks.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Is the Pollino in Basilicata or Calabria?

Both. The park spans the two regions.

Do I need a guide to hike in the Pollino?

Not for marked, easier trails, but a guide is recommended for the high ridges, especially in poor weather.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring to early autumn for hiking and rafting; autumn for forest colours.

Can I see the loricato pines without a long hike?

The finest groups are on the high ridges, which need a hike of several hours.

Plan your days in Basilicata

Book tours in Pollino National Park

Live prices and dates for tours, tickets and day trips in and around Pollino National Park. Many options offer free cancellation.

Nearby destinations