Lucanian Apennines National Park Val d'Agri Lagonegrese – Wild nature, authentic villages and exciting landscapes. The National Park of the Lucanian Apennines Val d'Agri Lagonegrese, established in 2007, extends between the provinces of Potenza and Matera and embraces an extraordinary variety of environments: mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers, beech forests, high pastures and small villages. It is one of the youngest protected areas in Italy, but already recognized for its biodiversity, its breathtaking views and its slow and sustainable tourism. ⛰️ A varied and spectacular landscape: From Monte Volturino to Monte Raparo, from Lake Pertusillo to the sources of the Agri river, the park offers a lively and spectacular geography, ideal for hiking, trekking, photography and relaxation. The seasons transform the landscape: from the bright colors of autumn to the snowy quiet of winter. 👉 Tip: Walk the trails around Lake Pertusillo for an easy hike through water, woods, and open vistas. 🌿 Biodiversity to discover: The park is the habitat of numerous species: Apennine wolf, roe deer, deer, peregrine falcon, eagle owl, together with rare plants such as peony and wild orchid. The high-altitude beech forests and high-altitude pastures are home to nature that is still intact. 👉 Tip: Bring binoculars and a notebook: wildlife sighting is always possible, especially in the early hours of the morning. 🏘️ Villages in the heart of the park: Municipalities such as Viggiano, Marsico Nuovo, Grumento Nova, Brienza, Spinoso and Montemurro dot the park with their traditions, their popular festivals and architectural heritage. Every village retains a strong, deep-rooted and welcoming soul. 👉 Tip: Stop in Montemurro, the birthplace of the poet Leonardo Sinisgalli, to breathe art and culture in a village suspended in the greenery. 🚶 Paths, hermitages and spirituality: The park is crossed by ancient paths, including the Cammino delle Fede, which connects sanctuaries, monasteries and places of worship such as the Sacro Monte di Viggiano, a destination for centuries-old pilgrimages. It is a territory that invites reflection, slowness, listening to the inner landscape. 👉 Tip: Take part in the traditional climb to the Madonna di Viggiano in September, amidst faith, music and enchanted landscapes. 🍽️ Authentic Lucanian flavors: The local cuisine is a strong point of the park: lagane with chickpeas, porcini mushrooms, artisanal cured meats, sheep's milk cheeses, high-altitude honey. All accompanied by local wines and fragrant extra virgin olive oils. 👉 Tip: Stop at a farmhouse for a slow and seasonal dinner, perhaps based on freshly harvested products. 🛌 Sleeping in the park: The Lucanian Apennines Park offers widespread hospitality: B&Bs in villages, mountain refuges, farmhouses, holiday homes. Many facilities also offer outdoor experiences, courses, tastings or guided walks. 👉 Tip: Choose accommodation surrounded by greenery to wake up to birdsong and fresh mountain air. The Lucanian Apennines National Park is nature that speaks slowly, history that lives in the villages, paths that unite heaven and earth. A place to explore with respect, step by step.