What to see and do in Sila: itineraries, pristine nature, and alpine lakes in Calabria
The Sila plateau, nestled in the mountainous heart of Calabria, is a patchwork of lush forests, alpine lakes, and quaint villages that evoke a sense of rural history and embrace a slower pace of tourism. Inside Sila National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, you’ll find alternating Corsican pine woods, dense beech forests, high-altitude meadows, and reservoirs reminiscent of Northern Europe. This destination draws travellers in search of untouched nature, cooler temperatures than the coast, and a gentler rhythm of life, one filled with scenic trails, peaceful silence, and, on clear days, sweeping views that stretch to both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas.
What to see in Sila: alpine lakes, mountain villages, and centuries-old reserves
What strikes most visitors first about Sila are its enchanting lakes. Lake Arvo, embraced by the forests of Lorica, conjures up images of alpine villages with its grassy shores, wooden piers, canoes, and quiet electric boats. Lake Ampollino, nestled between Villaggio Palumbo and Trepidò, is the gateway to the wilder side of Sila Piccola. Lake Cecita, meanwhile, introduces you to Sila Grande with its wide waters, open pastures, and the picturesque church of San Lorenzo. Beyond these lakes, don’t miss the Sila Giants Reserve, home to centuries-old larch pines, or the Cupone Visitor Center, where you can observe the park’s wildlife and vibrant ecosystems. Among the villages, Camigliatello Silano and San Giovanni in Fiore, with its historic Florense Abbey, invite you to blend nature exploration with the region’s rich history. These stops are easily paired, over several days, with visits to nearby archaeological parks along the Calabrian Ionian coast.
Hiking in Sila: trekking, a historic train, and outdoor activities
Anyone planning an adventure in Sila, in the mountainous heart of Calabria, will discover an extensive and varied network of trails. There are circular routes along the banks of Lakes Arvo and Ampollino, crossings to Monte Botte Donato and Montenero, and forested paths through towering Corsican pines, offering options for everyone from families seeking gentle hikes to seasoned trekkers craving a challenge. In winter, these same slopes transform into a paradise for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other snow sports. Come summer, they invite mountain bikers, horseback riders, and birdwatchers. The Sila Train, a charming, historic narrow-gauge railway, winds through woods and plateaus, letting you experience the leisurely pace of another era. For a slower tempo, consider a sunset walk with a guide, a peaceful lakeside picnic, or savouring local specialties like Patata della Sila PGI and Caciocavallo Silano PDO, which tell the area’s story through their unforgettable flavours.
Where to stay in Calabria to explore the Sila: VOIhotels' seaside offerings
If you’d like to balance high-altitude adventures with seaside relaxation, VOIhotels’ resorts in Calabria make for an ideal base. The VOI Floriana Resort, set on the Ionian coast in Simeri Crichi, is surrounded by lush gardens and offers easy day trips to the Sila, with the comfort of returning to a beachside retreat featuring a private beach, swimming pool, and generous buffet dining. On the Costa degli Dei, the VOI Le Muse Essentia Resort in Zambrone offers a seaside escape with refreshed spaces, a reserved beach, and thoughtful, comfortable amenities for both family and couple vacations. By choosing one of these resorts, you can experience Calabria’s dual nature: the alpine beauty of Sila’s lakes and woods and the sparkling waters of the Tyrrhenian or Ionian seas—all while enjoying seamless services and convenient logistics to plan excursions to the plateau.
