There Calabria it is a land rich in history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Among its natural wonders, the gardens and parks offer a unique experience for those seeking tranquility and beauty.
If you are planning a weekend immersed in nature, here is a guide to most beautiful gardens in Calabria not to be missed.
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Sila National Park
The Sila National Park it is one of the three national parks in Calabria and extends for over 150,000 hectaresthe. It is known for its larch pine and silver fir forests, as well as its artificial lakes, including Lake Cecita and Lake Ampollino. The park offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and bird watching.
There The park’s biodiversity is exceptionalwith numerous species of flora and fauna, making it a true paradise for nature lovers.
- Address: Sila, Calabria, Italy.
- How to reach it: the park is accessible by car via the A3 motorway, exit Cosenza and then follow the signs for Sila. It is also possible to arrive by train to Cosenza and then take a local bus.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: the park can be visited all year round, but the best months are from May to October. During summer weekends, the park can be crowded, so arriving early is recommended. In winter, the park also offers ski slopes.
Botanical Garden of Reggio Calabria
The Botanical Garden of Reggio Calabria, also known as the “Pietro Castelli” Botanical Garden, it is an oasis of tranquility located in the center of the city. It houses a large collection of Mediterranean and tropical plants, some of which are very rare.
The garden is a perfect place for relaxing walks and also offers panoramic views of the Strait of Messina.
- Address: Via Giuseppe De Nava, Reggio Calabria, Italy.
- How to reach it: it is easily reachable on foot from the center of Reggio Calabria or by public transport, such as buses and trams.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: The garden is open all year round, but spring and summer are the best times to admire the variety of blooms. It is ideal for an afternoon visit on the weekend.
Aspromonte National Park
This park covers approximately 64,000 hectares and is characterized by towering mountains, deep gorges and lush forests.
He is famous for his biodiversity, including rare animals like the Apennine wolf and the golden eagle. The park also offers numerous hiking and historical trails, making it an ideal destination for trekking and nature enthusiasts.
- Address: Aspromonte, Calabria, Italy.
- How to reach it: Accessible by car from the A2 motorway, exit Villa San Giovanni, then follow the signs for Gambarie.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: spring and autumn are the best times to visit the park, avoiding the high summer temperatures. On weekends, it is recommended to start hiking early in the morning to avoid the heat and possible crowds.
Garden of Pythagoras, Crotone
Located in Pignera Park, the Garden of Pythagoras it is an area dedicated to science and mathematics in honor of the famous Greek philosopher. The garden includes interactive installations and educational paths that explore Pythagorean theories through greenery and art. It is an ideal place for families and schools.
- Address: Pignera Park, Crotone, Italy.
- How to reach it: accessible by car from the center of Crotone or via local buses.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: open all year, the garden is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn. On weekends, it is advisable to visit in the morning to enjoy a quieter visit.
Mediterranean Biodiversity Park, Catanzaro
The urban park is a real green lung in the heart of Catanzaro. It is home to a variety of Mediterranean plants and offers walking paths, a duck pond and an open-air museum of contemporary sculpture.
It is a perfect place for families and for those looking for a bit of relaxation in nature.
- Address: Via Vinicio Cortese, Catanzaro, Italy.
- How to reach it: Easily reachable by car or public transport from the center of Catanzaro.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: The park is open all year round, but is especially pleasant in spring and summer. It’s ideal for a weekend picnic.
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Scolacium Archaeological Park
Located near Catanzaro, the Scolacium Archaeological Park offers a fascinating mix of nature and archaeology. Here you can admire the ruins of ancient Greek and Roman cities, including a Roman theater and a Byzantine basilica.
The park is surrounded by olive groves and offers scenic routes.
- Address: Roccelletta di Borgia, Catanzaro, Italy.
- How to reach it: accessible by car from the SS106, with parking available on site.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: open all year round, but the spring and autumn months are the best to visit, thanks to the mild climate. On weekends, it is recommended to arrive in the morning to explore the park without rushing.
Pollino National Park
The Pollino National Park it is the largest national park in Italy and extends between Calabria and Basilicata. It is known for its spectacular mountain landscapes, including the Pollino and Dolcedorme massifs, as well as lush forests and ancient loricated pines.
The park offers numerous opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing and bird watching.
- Address: Pollino, Calabria, Italy.
- How to reach it: accessible by car via the A3 motorway, exit Mormanno or Campotenese, then follow the signs for the park.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the park, avoiding extreme temperatures. On weekends, it is advisable to book excursions in advance.
Gardens of Villa Caristo
Located near Stignano, the Gardens of Villa Caristo are a magnificent example of a Baroque garden. The villa, built in the 18th century, is surrounded by Italian gardens with fountains, statues and geometric flowerbeds. The gardens offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
- Address: Contrada Caristo, Stignano, Reggio Calabria, Italy.
- How to reach it: Accessible by car from the SS106, with parking available on site.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: Open all year, but the spring and summer months are best to visit when the gardens are in full bloom. It is ideal for an afternoon visit on the weekend.
“Baia di Soverato” Regional Marine Park
This marine park is a protected area located along the Ionian coast of Calabria, famous for its marine biodiversity and its crystal clear waters.
The park offers opportunities for snorkeling, diving and observing marine life, including seahorses. It is an ideal place for sea and nature enthusiasts.
- Address: Soverato, Catanzaro, Italy.
- How to reach it: accessible by car from the SS106, with parking available nearby.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: the summer months are the best to visit the park, when the water is warmest and underwater visibility is excellent. On weekends, we recommend arriving early to find parking and avoid the crowds.
Valli Cupe Regional Nature Reserve
The Valli Cupe Regional Nature Reserve, located near Sersale, it is a protected area known for its spectacular canyonsi, waterfalls and exceptional biodiversity. The reserve is home to rare species of flora and fauna, and is an ideal place for hiking and birdwatching. Among the main attractions are the Campanaro waterfall and the Valli Cupe Canyon, one of the largest canyons in Europe.
- Address: Via delle Valli Cupe, Sersale, Catanzaro, Italy.
- How to reach it: accessible by car from the SS106, following the signs for Sersale. Parking available nearby.
- Season and tips for visiting during the weekend: the reserve can be visited all year round, but spring and autumn are the best times to avoid the summer heat. On weekends, it is advisable to arrive early in the morning to enjoy nature in peace.
