Cilento National Park: Campania's UNESCO World Heritage Site

In the heart of southern Campania stretches one of Italy's most precious natural treasures: the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park. This extraordinary territory, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, encompasses exceptional biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes and a millennia-old history rooted in Magna Graecia.

Covering 181,000 hectares, Cilento represents Italy's second largest national park, a true treasure chest of natural wonders where wild mountains plunge into crystal-clear seas, creating scenes of rare beauty. Here nature reigns supreme, protected and preserved for future generations.

From the peaks of the Alburni Mountains to the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Salerno, from the mysterious charm of the Pertosa-Auletta Caves to medieval villages perched on hills, Cilento offers a complete and unforgettable travel experience for all lovers of authentic nature.

The Park's Extraordinary Biodiversity

Cilento National Park is a true natural laboratory where diverse ecosystems coexist, from Mediterranean scrubland to high-altitude beech forests. This environmental richness hosts over 1,800 plant species, some of which are endemic and rare, such as the Palinurus Primrose that grows exclusively along the Cilento coast.

Flora and Vegetation

Cilento's vegetation changes dramatically with altitude and exposure. Along the coast, typical Mediterranean scrubland dominates with:

• Mastic, myrtle and fragrant broom
• Maritime pines and centuries-old holm oaks
• Agaves and prickly pears in the most arid areas
• Wild orchids in spring

Climbing inland, you encounter mixed woods of downy oaks and turkey oaks, while above 1,000 meters magnificent beech forests open up, turning golden in autumn.

Protected Fauna

The Cilento territory is a refuge for numerous animal species, some particularly rare. Among mammals, notable species include:

• The Apennine wolf, symbol of the park
• Wild boar, roe deer and foxes
• The otter, present along the Alento and Bussento rivers
• Various bat species in karst caves

The birdlife is equally rich with peregrine falcons, red kites and during migrations, numerous raptor species that stop along coastal routes.

Geological and Karst Treasures

Cilento hides a parallel underground world of caves, underground rivers and spectacular karst phenomena. The territory's geology, characterized by limestone rocks, has allowed the formation of a complex hypogean system of great scientific and tourist interest.

The Pertosa-Auletta Caves

Considered among Italy's most beautiful caves, the Pertosa-Auletta Caves offer a unique experience: underground navigation along a hypogean river. These cavities, formed over 35 million years ago, feature spectacular limestone concretions and immense halls decorated with stalactites and stalagmites.

Other Karst Phenomena

The Cilento territory is dotted with numerous other caves and sinkholes:

• The Angel's Cave in Sant'Angelo a Fasanella
• The sinkholes of the Alburni Mountains
• Karst swallow holes and springs
• River canyons carved in limestone

Cilento Coast: Between Pristine Beaches and Wild Cliffs

The Cilento coast stretches for over 100 kilometers, alternating golden sand beaches with cliffs dropping into the sea. This stretch of coastline, among the most beautiful and unspoiled in the Mediterranean, boasts 14 locations awarded the Blue Flag for water and service quality.

The Most Beautiful Beaches

Every corner of the Cilento coast hides a surprise:

• Palinuro: with its sea caves and Natural Arch
• Marina di Camerota: crystal-clear beaches in wild settings
• Acciaroli: the seaside village beloved by Hemingway
• Ascea Marina: where ancient Velia once stood
• Pisciotta: between centuries-old olive trees and turquoise sea

Marine Reserves and Protected Areas

The Cilento coast is protected by several marine reserves that safeguard marine ecosystems of exceptional value:

• Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area
• Punta Licosa Marine Reserve
• Biological protection zones along the entire coastline

Historic Villages in the Green

Cilento is not only wild nature, but also a territory rich in history and traditions. Medieval villages, often perched on hills and mountains, represent authentic architectural gems set in greenery.

Castellabate: The Pearl of Cilento

A UNESCO Heritage Site, Castellabate dominates the gulf from a panoramic promontory. The perfectly preserved medieval village offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding mountains. Its cobbled streets, noble palaces and city walls tell centuries of history.

Other Villages to Discover

• Teggiano: former capital of the Cilento Barony
• Sant'Angelo a Fasanella: among woods and natural springs
• Roscigno Vecchia: the perfectly preserved ghost town
• Padula: guardian of the magnificent Certosa di San Lorenzo

Trails and Trekking in Nature

Cilento Park offers over 200 kilometers of marked trails crossing diverse natural environments. From panoramic coastal paths to high mountain treks, every excursion offers unique emotions and the chance to discover hidden corners of this extraordinary territory.

The Most Beautiful Nature Trails

• Lovers' Trail: from Palinuro to Marina di Camerota
• Palinurus Primrose Path: along the cliffs
• Monte Cervati Trek: the park's highest peak (1,899 m)
• Saint Nilus Way: between spirituality and nature
• Salt Road: ancient route connecting sea and mountains

Tips for Hikers

To best enjoy Cilento excursions:

• Always wear appropriate trekking shoes
• Bring plenty of water, especially in summer
• Check weather forecasts
• Respect protected flora and fauna
• Always follow marked trails

Culinary Traditions and Local Products

Cilento's generous nature offers not only breathtaking landscapes, but also gastronomic products of excellence. The Mediterranean Diet, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity, has its most authentic roots here.

DOP and IGP Products

• Buffalo Mozzarella DOP: from the Sele plains
• Cilento Extra Virgin Olive Oil DOP: from centuries-old olive trees
• Cilento White Fig DOP: natural sweetness
• Controne Bean IGP: precious legume

"Cilento preserves the authentic flavors of the past, where every product tells the story of a territory and its people."

Visiting Cilento National Park represents a journey into the most authentic Italy, where nature reigns supreme and traditions are passed down from generation to generation. This extraordinary territory offers the opportunity to live unique experiences, from contemplating breathtaking landscapes to discovering medieval villages, from cave adventures to swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Plan your next nature escape by choosing Cilento: an all-Italian paradise waiting to give you unforgettable emotions and memories you'll carry in your heart forever.