A canyon of vertical walls in the Pollino National Park
In the Calabrian part of the Pollino National Park, the Raganello stream has carved, over thousands of years, one of the most spectacular canyons in Italy: the Gole del Raganello, a gorge about 17 kilometres long, with limestone walls that in some places rise vertically for hundreds of metres and narrow to just a few metres apart, leaving only a strip of sky visible. The gorge is divided into two parts: the upper gorge, wilder and more difficult, near San Lorenzo Bellizzi, and the lower gorge, near Civita, more accessible, where the stream flows among smooth boulders, pools of emerald water, small waterfalls and natural slides. The walls are home to birds of prey such as the peregrine falcon, the eagle owl and the Egyptian vulture.
The gorge is a destination for canyoning, trekking in the river bed and birdwatching, but it requires great care: in August 2018, a sudden flash flood caused by a storm in the mountains swept away a group of hikers, causing ten deaths. Since then, access is regulated and it is strongly recommended to go only with authorised guides, with the proper equipment, and to check the weather forecast. For those who prefer not to enter the gorge, the Ponte del Diavolo, near Civita, and the belvederes of the village offer splendid views of the canyon from above, and a path leads to the bridge, over the emerald water of the stream.
Tip: enter the gorge only with an authorised guide and never in uncertain weather; otherwise, enjoy it from the Ponte del Diavolo.
Where it is
More things to see in Calabria
Where to stay near Civita
Tours and activities nearby
Offers from GetYourGuide. Some links are affiliate links: if you book we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.