Pollino National Park – The majesty of nature between the Calabrian peaks and the loricate pines. The Pollino National Park, shared between Calabria and Basilicata, is the largest natural park in Italy. The Calabrian side, in the province of Cosenza, offers majestic landscapes, canyons carved by water, centuries-old forests and peaks over 2,000 meters. It is here that the mountain becomes wild and silent, where the loricate pine dominates the peaks like an ancient guardian. ⛰️ Majestic mountains and endless views: From Monte Pollino to Dolcedorme, the highest in the southern Apennines, the Calabrian reliefs of the park offer grandiose views, high-altitude paths and the purest air in the South. A perfect kingdom for hikers and trekking lovers. 👉 Tip: Going up to Dolcedorme from San Lorenzo Bellizzi, you can admire the loricate pines between the rocks and a breathtaking scenery. 🌲 Loricate pines and extraordinary biodiversity: The loricate pine is the symbol of the park: it grows among the rocks in spectacular positions, shaped by wind and time. Next to him, wolves, golden eagles, deer and roe deer live in an ecosystem that is still intact. 👉 Tip: Visit the Pollino to learn about the plant species of Pollino before venturing into the paths. 💧 Hidden gorges, rivers and canyons: The waterways have sculpted wonders such as the Raganello Gorges, one of the most spectacular canyons in the South. Streams, waterfalls and limestone caves also make Pollino a destination for water sports and nature explorations. 👉 Tip: Take part in a guided hike in the Raganello canyon with a helmet and waterproof hiking shoes - an adrenaline-pumping adventure! 🏛️ Stone villages and Arbereshe culture: The Calabrian side is home to charming villages such as Civita, Frascineto and San Basile, custodians of the Arbereshe (Albanian) culture. Architecture, language, rituals and gastronomy keep centuries-old traditions alive. 👉 Tip: Visit Civita and cross the Devil's Bridge: a walk through legends, views and authentic hospitality. 🍽️ Intense flavors of the Calabrian mountains: The cuisine of the Calabrian Pollino is hearty and fragrant: mushrooms, chestnuts, sausages, caciocavallo, cruschi peppers and wood-fired bread. Each dish tells the story of the land and the seasons. 👉 Tip: At a farm, try raskatielli (handmade pasta) with meat sauce and a sprinkling of salted ricotta. 🛌 Hospitality between nature and tradition: The park offers mountain huts, B&Bs in historic villages and farmhouses surrounded by greenery. The atmosphere is quiet, welcoming and perfect for those who want a stay of calm and discovery. 👉 Tip: Stay in Civita or Morano Calabro: villages with mountain views, excellent cuisine and perfect as a base for exploring the park. The Pollino is a mountain that breathes, tells and welcomes. Here, the silence becomes deep and each path becomes a journey into the wild essence of Calabria.