Ex Campo di Tiro al Volo: Calabria’s Quiet Reclaimed Park

A Former Shooting Range Turned Park

Ex Campo di Tiro al Volo sits in the Calabrian countryside as a reclaimed pocket of nature. Once used for clay-pigeon shooting, the site has been left to regenerate into open meadows, scattered pines, and gentle slopes that invite slow exploration on foot.

What to See and Do

Visitors follow informal paths that loop through the former firing zones. Grasses and wildflowers now dominate the clearings, while low stone walls and old earthen berms hint at the site’s past. Birdsong replaces the crack of shotguns; species common to the region include hoopoes, kestrels, and migrating warblers in spring and autumn. At the higher edges of the park, low ridges open onto views of rolling hills that stretch toward the Ionian Sea on clear days.

Walking and Picnicking

The terrain is easy enough for a relaxed hour or two of wandering. Bring water and a light picnic; several flat clearings work well for spreading a blanket. Photographers enjoy the contrast between the soft vegetation and the angular remnants of the old range structures.

How to Get There

The park lies inland from the Ionian coast. Most travelers arrive by car from Catanzaro or Crotone, following provincial roads that wind through olive groves and small hamlets. Limited public buses run from nearby towns; check schedules in advance and plan a return trip, as services are infrequent in the afternoon.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and early autumn offer the mildest temperatures and the strongest wildflower displays. Summer visits are possible but bring more sun protection and extra water, as shade is limited. Winter walks can be rewarding on dry days, though the grass may be damp.

Nearby Attractions

• The hill town of Petilia Policastro, known for its medieval center and panoramic viewpoints.
• Coastal beaches along the Ionian shore, roughly twenty minutes’ drive away.
• Sections of the Sila plateau for longer hikes if you have an extra day.