Pollino National Park

The Pollino National park is Famous for 'the garden of the gods' (Serra di Crispo) and the rare Pino loricato tree. It is the largest and possibly the wildest park in Italy. During our visit, the weather was poor but fortunately we were rescued by the really kind guide from Rifugio Fasanelli. He invited us to join his group of residents on a morning snow shoe excursion through the forest. At 1350m., the forest is mostly beech trees but all of the trees are covered in many different lichens, a sure sign of clean air and a pristine environment. The Rifugio offers a range of park exploration packages including rafting and aqua trekking.