A rewarding climb through beech forests to sweeping views across the Pollino range and toward the Tyrrhenian coast.
Coppola di Paola rises in the northern part of Calabria’s Pollino National Park, offering hikers a quieter alternative to more famous peaks in the range. Its rounded summit and surrounding beech woods deliver classic highland scenery without crowds.
The mountain stands at roughly 1,800 meters, high enough for open panoramas yet accessible on foot from nearby trailheads. On clear days the view stretches from the Ionian Sea across the Pollino massif to the distant Tyrrhenian coast. Spring brings wildflowers; autumn colors the beech canopy gold and red. Winter often leaves a thin snow layer, turning the upper slopes into a simple ski-touring destination for locals.
The nearest sizable town is Morano Calabro, about 20 minutes by car from the lower trailheads. From the SS19 road, signed forestry tracks lead to parking areas at roughly 1,300 meters. Public transport is limited; most visitors rent a car or join a guided hike from Castrovillari. Once parked, well-marked paths such as the Sentiero Italia section climb steadily through mixed forest before emerging onto open slopes near the summit.
Late May through early October offers the most reliable weather and dry trails. July and August can be hot at lower elevations but remain pleasant on the ridge. Always check the regional forecast; sudden afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.
After descending, drive to the medieval village of Civita for Arbëreshë culture and lunch, or continue to the dramatic gorges of the Raganello river. The Pollino visitor center in Rotonda provides maps and information on other trails in the park.
Keep reading
Wander the evocative remains of a seaside Roman villa near Locri, where mosaics and thermal baths overlook the sparkling…
The route is moderate for fit walkers; expect 600u2013700 m of steady ascent on clear paths. No technical climbing is required.
Yes, dogs are permitted if kept on a leash and owners clean up after them.
No permanent huts exist; plan to descend the same day or carry overnight gear if attempting a longer traverse.
The mountain is accessible in winter with proper snow equipment, but the forestry roads often close after heavy snowfall.
Local guides based in Morano Calabro and Castrovillari regularly lead groups, especially in spring and autumn.
Wander through the evocative remains of Casale di Forgiano, a lesser-known archaeological site revealing layers of…
Step back into prehistory at this quiet archaeological site on Calabria’s Ionian coast.
