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Sila National Park

The Sila National Park is one of the largest national parks in Italy, covering 73,695 hectares of plateaus, forests and lakes in the heart of Calabria. A UNESCO MAB Biosphere Reserve, it protects one of the best-preserved Calabrian pine ecosystems in Europe.

Key facts

• Area: 73,695 hectares
• Established: 2002
• UNESCO MAB Reserve since 2014
• Three macro-areas: Sila Greca, Sila Grande, Sila Piccola
• Highest peak: Monte Botte Donato (1,928 m)
• Wildlife: wolves, roe deer, red deer, Sila black squirrel

What to do in the Park

Trekking and trails

Hundreds of kilometers of signposted trails, from easy plateau walks to challenging climbs. A must-see: the Giants of the Sila Biogenetic Reserve at Fallistro, with centuries-old pine laricio over 350 years old and 45+ m tall, classified as an Italian Natural Monument.

The lakes

Three large mountain lakes: Arvo, Cecita and Ampollino. Water sports, fishing, lakeside paths, birdwatching.

Skiing and snow

The ski resorts of Lorica - Monte Botte Donato and Camigliatello offer alpine and cross-country skiing, typically open from December to March.

Mountain biking

A network of MTB trails for all levels crosses the Sila Grande, with bike rentals available in many villages.

When to visit

Open year-round. Cool summers (daytime max ~24 °C), spectacular autumn foliage, snowy winters for skiing and snowshoeing, springtime blooms and birdwatching.

Where to stay in the Park

Dimora nel Bosco is located in Lorica, inside the Sila National Park, just a short walk from Lake Arvo — the perfect base for exploring the Park's trails and the Giants Reserve.

Official sources

• Sila National Park Authority (parcosila.it)
• Sila UNESCO MAB Biosphere Reserve
• Sila National Park on Wikipedia