- Difficulty level: moderate
- Nights out: 7
- Max People: 12
- Airport transfer: yes
- Luggage transfers: yes
- Food: all included
- Accommodation: Farmhouses, guesthouses, and widespread hospitality in various villages
“The system of travel that my companion and I adopted when these diaries were written was the simplest and also the least expensive: we completed the entire journey on foot (…). In Calabria, a horse carried the little luggage we brought, along with a guide. Since hotels existed only along the carriage road on the west coast, the traveller had to rely on the hospitality of a few families in each city he visited…”
Edward Lear, 1847
In the summer of 1847, English painter and traveler Edward Lear, accompanied by a friend, set off on foot to explore the inner mountains of Calabria. Their mission? To discover and paint the stunning landscapes they encountered along the way. With a guide and a donkey to carry their gear, they journeyed through the heart of the region, capturing its beauty and experiencing the warmth of the locals. Lear’s adventures and the people he met are all detailed in his book Journey of a Landscape Painter in Southern Calabria (1852).
Now, follow in Lear’s footsteps with Mr. Lear’s Journey, a trek designed by Great Italian Outdoors that retraces his route through Calabria’s breathtaking Aspromonte National Park.
Hike ancient trails from village to village, let our team carry your luggage, and connect with local artisans, shepherds, and forest workers. Immerse yourself in the region’s rich traditions and culture as you experience Calabria’s beauty just like Lear did.
Lace up your boots and get ready for an unforgettable adventure—step into Lear’s Calabria today!
Day 1: Welcome to Aspromonte and the Land of Bergamot
Arrive at Reggio Calabria Central Station or Airport and meet your guide. After a scenic 45-minute transfer, you’ll reach Pentedattilo (280m), a semi-abandoned medieval village famous for its ethno-architectural charm.
Once you’ve settled into your accommodation—either a cozy hostel or a welcoming local house—gather for a briefing before dinner. Your guide will go over the plan for the upcoming days, answer any questions, and sort out any last-minute details to make sure you’re all set for the adventure ahead.
Then, enjoy a delicious local dinner and unwind with an overnight stay in the heart of Pentedattilo.
Day 2: From Pentedattilo to Bagaladi, Among Olive Trees
After a hearty breakfast it’s time to hit the trail! The day begins with a trek from Pentedattilo and takes you through some of Calabria’s most beautiful landscapes. You’ll climb up to Punta di Leo (502 m) and then on to Punta d’Argento (743 m), where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
As you descend towards the Fiumara Tuccio river you’ll pass through olive groves and rugged terrain, immersing yourself in the area’s natural beauty. Finally, you’ll arrive in Bagaladi (475m), a charming village nestled in the hills.
After a rewarding day of hiking, you’ll settle into a local hospitality house for a warm welcome. Enjoy a delicious dinner, relax, and spend the night in the heart of the village.
Elevation change: 570m uphill, 350m downhill
Hiking time: Approx. 6 hours
Day 3: Adventure Through Hills and Villages – Bagaladi to Amendolea
Today’s journey takes us through scenic hills and charming villages, offering a mix of adventure and stunning views. We’ll kick things off in the quaint village of Bagaladi before making our way up to San Lorenzo Superiore – a spot that promises breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Next, we’ll pass through the peaceful agricultural village of San Pantaleone and head towards Monte Cataluce, where the views just keep getting better. We’ll continue down to the Condofuri stream and then follow the tranquil waters of Amendolea stream, eventually reaching the welcoming village of Amendolea.
For the night, we’ll stay at the cozy agriturismo “Il Bergamotto,” where you can unwind amidst the beauty of organic bergamot groves. Enjoy a delicious dinner, and relax overnight at the agriturismo.
Hiking time: Around 7 hours
Elevation: 350m uphill, 650m downhill
Day 4: The Greeks of Calabria – Amendolea, Gallicianò, and Bova
Start your day with breakfast, then begin your hike from Amendolea to the enchanting village of Gallicianò. As you trek through the rugged landscape, you’ll pass by M. Maradha and Palazzine, enjoying panoramic views along the way. Gallicianò, known as the most authentically Greek village in Italy, will captivate you with its unique charm and deep-rooted Grecanica culture.
Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch, visit the Orthodox church, and even take in a live Grecanica musical performance—a true highlight of the day!
Afterward, continue your hike to Bova (850m) via the Oleandri area of Amendolea and the ruins of the Focolio mill. The journey will offer a fascinating mix of nature, history, and culture, with stunning views and a rich sense of local heritage.
Elevation change: 1100m uphill, 536m downhill
Hiking time: 5 hours, including stops
Day 5: Monte Grosso – A Breathtaking View
Rise and shine for a challenging but rewarding hike from Bova to Monte Grosso (1300 m) along a historic mule track. As you ascend, the views of the Amendolea River and the ghost villages of Roghudi and Africo Vecchio unfold, giving you a sense of the region’s history and rugged beauty.
At the summit, take a moment to soak in the panoramic vista: the wild peaks of Aspromonte, with Mount Etna looming in the distance, make for an unforgettable sight.
Afterward, enjoy a hearty lunch at the San Salvatore forest refuge (1200m). Refueled, you’ll descend on a different trail back to Bova, completing the loop and savoring the landscape from a new angle.
Elevation change: 800m uphill, 780m downhill
Hiking time: Approx. 7 hours
Distance: 19km
Day 6: Bova to Palizzi – Vineyards and Wine
Start the day with a guided tour of Bova, where you’ll explore the Sanctuary of San Leo and the Co-Cathedral of the Madonna della Presentazione, rich in history and local culture. Afterward, get ready for a scenic trek from Bova to Palizzi Superiore.
The hike takes you through Monte Agrappidà offering panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills. As you descend into Palizzi, a charming village nestled among vineyards, you’ll have time to explore the historic centre and soak in the local atmosphere.
Wrap up the day with a delicious dinner, then relax with an overnight stay in one of Palizzi’s warm, welcoming hospitality accommodations.
Elevation change: 300m uphill, 600m downhill
Hiking time: Approx. 6 hours
Day 7: Palizzi to Staiti via Monte Cerasia
After breakfast, set out from Palizzi Superiore on a scenic trek to Staiti. Your journey takes you up to Monte Cerasia (1013m), where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea on one side and the rugged peaks of Aspromonte on the other.
Along the way, stop to explore Pietrapennata, a charming agricultural village where time seems to slow down. Then, visit the atmospheric ruins of the Monastery of Madonna dell’Alica, a peaceful spot steeped in history.
The day’s trek covers 22km, with plenty of ups and downs, but the stunning views and rich heritage make it all worth it.
Elevation change: 800m uphill, 800m downhill
Hiking time: Approx. 7 hours
Distance: 22km
Day 8: Departure
Your adventure in Calabria comes to an end today. Enjoy your final morning before heading to Reggio Calabria for your flight. I
f you have time, take an optional visit to the National Museum of Magna Graecia, where you can marvel at the famous Riace Bronzes—ancient masterpieces of Greek art.
From there, you’ll head to the airport or railway station to catch your flight or train, filled with memories of a truly unforgettable journey.