Walking trip - Pollino

[MART]

Hi everyone,

We ventured into the Pollino Park 7th - 12th October to try and find out a little bit more about the walking in the area.

Rather than just stay where we are based in San Nicola Arcella we ventured further inland to Terranova di Pollino for a couple of days.Stayed for one night at the Hotel Picchio Nero [beautiful place,fantastic hospitality and great food ].Pino the manager of the hotel knows a lot about the walking in the area and is keen to pass on his knowledge.

The main walk of the week started a few miles outside of Terranova and took 5-6 hours involving a steady climb through woods to the summit of Serra di Crispo. Mainly through woods until nearer the summit but then great views across too Monte Pollino and Dolcedorme.

The weather throughtout the week was in the mid 20`s C so great walking weather.

On returning to San Nicola decided to try something nearer our base so headed out for the Grotto del Romito hoping find a path that would take us along the river to Papasidero.We had a few false starts by the river but eventually gave up.A path is marked on the map be we were unable to locate it, I`m afraid no signs or clues as to the paths whereabouts.

Bought a book in Scalea that may help some -`A piedi sul Pollino`by Emanuele Pisarra only 10 euros got it from a little book shop more or less opposite the main petrol station.It`s in Italian but has 114 different walks in the area with starting points distances etc.Full description of walks in Italian [ not to helpful for me cos I only have a dozen words ! ] but at least it informs you where the paths are, but o for an English version because this is exactly what we need.

Anyway it was a good week great weather,sea still warm enough for a dip and a couple of walks.We still need to find out more, next time will head for Monte Pollino and hopefully find more walks nearer Scalea and San Nicola Arcella.

Would love to hear about walking experiences in this beautiful place.

Anybody know anything about coastal paths in the Scalea / San Nic area ?

For the time being it`s back to the Lake District / Yorkshire Dales for some walking and in between will be looking forward to a nailbiting season in the Premiership hoping Hull City can avoid relegation!

Warm regards

Martin