Escursioni e Trekking vicino a Amantea (EN)

Amantea, the pearl of Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast, is not just a destination for sea lovers but also an exceptional starting point for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. Its unique geographical position, nestled between the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the imposing ridges of the Appennino Paolano range, allows you to walk immersed in pristine nature, effortlessly transitioning from sandy beaches to mountain peaks offering breathtaking views. One of the most iconic and frequented routes in the area is the Anello di Monte Mancuso.

This trail spans approximately 15.2 kilometers and takes around four and a half hours to complete. With a positive elevation gain of about 600 meters, the hike is classified as moderate and requires a decent level of physical fitness. The path winds through dense forests and open areas, providing pleasant shade during the hottest months and offering continuous glimpses of the coastline below.

For those who wish to explore the hilly nature of the hinterland starting directly from the town center, the Amantea - Monte Grassullo - Colopera loop is the ideal choice.

With a total length of 11.2 kilometers and a more moderate elevation gain of around 437 meters, this route follows old rural roads and trails immersed in Mediterranean scrub. It’s a suggestive path that blends the rustic charm of ancient Calabria with the wild beauty of coastal ridges.

However, the true gem for experienced hikers is the trekking up Monte Cocuzzo. Considered the highest peak of the Paolana Coastal Chain at 1,541 meters, it’s about an hour’s drive from Amantea’s town center. Reaching the forest refuge by car, you begin a loop trail of approximately 12 kilometers with over 600 meters of total ascent.

Walking along this ridge, surrounded by majestic beech forests and rocky crests, offers an unmatched experience. Once you reach the summit, your gaze can sweep 360 degrees over all of Calabria: on clear days, the horizon reveals the Etna and Aspromonte to the south, the profile of the Aeolian Islands to the west, the Pollino massifs to the north, and the Sila plateau to the east.

Finally, for those who prefer combining physical activity with historical exploration without steep climbs, the surroundings offer splendid options for urban and coastal trekking. You can stroll along the paths connecting the historic center to the Chiesetta di San Francesco d'Assisi and the ruins of the ancient medieval castle, or venture into the nearby Oliva River valley, walking among ancient olive groves and citrus orchards.