You are at
Vallo della Lucania, the most important center of the Park, as well as seat of the institute itself. After a brief visit to the little town, move toward Novi Velia for the excursion to
Monte Sacro also called Gélbison, destination since the fourteenth century of important pilgrimages from all South Italy; from the terrace of the Presbytery you can see a wonderful panorama of the Cilento Park and of Vallo di Diano.
Excursion on Monte Sacro Duration: 1 day
Degree of difficulty: Scarce. An ascent of 2 or 4 hors is expected
Length: about 3 Km (one way)
Description of the route: The itinerary begins near Novi Velia, from the old hydroelectric station on the Torna river. Walking along a path parallel to the river, you will be immerged into a thick forest were the Neapolitan alder prevails together with large chestnut trees. The river, flowing through imposing rocks, from time to time creates spectacular cascades. The path continues on the right side of the deep Caricaturo valley, through a forest of chestnut trees, until you reach a plateau. From here, take the old path, paved with local stones, on which the pilgrims used to walk, before the current road got built. The forest is prevalently made up of fir trees, due to a questionable reforestation, that partly suppressed the autochthonous flora. While you rise, the Neapolitan alders get back their dominion and you can also find small beautiful arbutus clutches. After two hours of walk you'll get to Fiumefreddo, where there is the characteristic spring adorned by an effigy of the Madonna. At this point it is possible to have a typical lunch in a restaurant or in the open air.
