The Pollino National Park
The Basilicata region is crossed by the Pollino mountain range (which extends to Calabria). Here there is a magnificent Park where you can walk among the wild and unspoiled nature, observing animals and birds of prey, and also learn about local customs and traditions, and taste the authentic, traditional recipes.
The Park was established in 1993 with the aim of preserving and protecting some of the rarest plants in the world, such as the Pinus heldreichii. The area is important for the presence of holm-oak, beech and maple trees, beautiful rivers such as the Sinni (this river is 94 kilometers long and it is one of the largest rivers in Basilicata region) and the varied local fauna – tourists have a chance to see wolves, wildcats, squirrels, boars and roe deer (the only surviving species of deer that were once numerous).
The most enchanting activity in the Park is walking through the paths that lead to the tops of Dolcedorme, Serra di Crispo and Gole del Raganello as well as the one leading to the Pollino Plain.
Sport lovers can also practice mountain-bike, horse riding, canoeing and rafting in the Park.
The Pollino Park still keeps its traditional habits and customs and gives to tourists the possibility to have a taste of Basilicata food and wine; every little town is unique and has distinctive features.
