Reggio Calabria: Aspromonte Trails Trek to Montalto Summit
Are you craving a hike that rewards you with sweeping panoramic vistas and authentic Italian nature? The Aspromonte Trails Trek to Montalto Summit offers exactly that—a private, guided adventure through Calabria’s stunning national park topped off with a visit to Italy’s towering Christ the Redeemer statue. While it’s a solid choice for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts, keep in mind that the tour’s reliance on personal transport means it’s best suited for those comfortable with driving.
What really makes this experience shine is its focus on spectacular views from Italy’s second highest peak, the chance to walk through lush forests, and the personalized guidance that makes the trek both accessible and memorable. We love the opportunity it provides to connect with nature without the crowds, plus the chance to learn about the park’s highlights from an engaging guide. However, if you’re looking for a very leisurely walk or something strictly accessible without a car, you might find this a bit more demanding.
This trek is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager to explore Calabria’s lesser-known treasures. If you enjoy panoramic hikes, impressive sculptures, and authentic local landscapes, this is a trail worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Stunning panoramic views from Montalto’s summit at 1956 meters.
- Guided experience with a knowledgeable private guide, Lorenzo, who shares local insights.
- Unique sights, including the Christ the Redeemer statue and a wind rose on top of the mountain.
- Forest and high-altitude clearings that showcase Aspromonte’s diverse landscape.
- Travel by car is necessary to reach the starting point, making transport planning essential.
- Flexible scheduling with 6-hour tours and full cancellation options.
Looking for more options in Reggio Calabria? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Exploring the Aspromonte Trails Trek
The Start: Meeting Point and Initial Walk
The adventure begins at Piazza Mangeruca in Gambarie, Calabria. From here, you’ll travel approximately 12 km by car along the Montalto-Polsi road to the meeting point. This isn’t a walk-in start; it’s an active part of the journey that sets the tone for the day. The drive itself offers a scenic preview of Calabria’s mountain scenery, with winding roads passing through small towns that are often missed on typical tourist routes.
Once you arrive, your private guide Lorenzo greets you with enthusiasm, ready to lead you through the Aspromonte National Park. His engaging personality and depth of knowledge turn a simple trek into a more meaningful experience—reviewers like Martin praise Lorenzo for being “extremely informative, friendly, and making the experience more than just a hike.” He even went out of his way to provide additional local insights, including a scenic drive through towns after the trek, which many will find a charming bonus.
Trekking Along the Forest Paths
The trail takes you through immense forests and high-altitude clearings, offering a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots. Expect to walk along well-marked paths that wind through lush woods, with occasional panoramic stops where the vistas open up to reveal the rugged landscape of Calabria.
The forests are vibrant, with the sounds of nature accompanying your steps—birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife. The trek’s moderate difficulty makes it suitable for most reasonably active travelers, but do remember that the terrain can be uneven and involve some steep sections.
More Great Tours NearbyReaching the Summit at Montalto
After roughly 3 hours of walking, you’ll arrive at the top of Montalto, the second-highest peak in Aspromonte at 1956 meters. From here, the views are breathtaking; you’ll see an expanse of mountain ranges, lush valleys, and the coast in the distance. It’s a perfect spot to pause, take photos, and soak in the scenery.
On top, you’ll encounter the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer, a striking figure that stands against the skyline—an impressive sight that adds a spiritual dimension to the experience. Nearby, a wind rose with a stone base offers a unique feature for visitors and a great photo opportunity.
The Return Journey
Descending the same paths, you’ll retrace your steps back to the starting point. The descent tends to be quicker but no less scenic, and the fresh mountain air makes the walk feel invigorating rather than tiring. The whole trek lasts about 6 hours, including stops, making it a full but rewarding day.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The tour includes an official guide service from Aspromonte National Park, which ensures you get expert insights and a safe experience. You’ll want to bring a packed lunch—there are no eateries at the summit—and comfortable hiking shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Remember to arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point to ensure a timely start.
Transport is not provided by the tour operator, so you’ll need your own vehicle or arrange for a transfer to the meeting point. The tour adheres to current anti-COVID regulations, offering a safe environment for participants.
The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective
One of the standout features, as highlighted by a reviewer, is the personalized nature of this private tour. Lorenzo’s dedication to making the day special shines through, from his local insights to the scenic drive after the trek. This added touch makes the experience feel tailored rather than generic.
The views are a highlight—Martin describes Lorenzo as “interestingly friendly” and notes that the experience was “more than just a hike.” The photos at the summit with Christ the Redeemer and the wind rose are memorable keepsakes that capture the essence of this adventure.
While the journey involves some uphill walking and requires a car to reach the starting point, the overall value in terms of scenery, guidance, and authentic experience is high. For those who love mountain landscapes and panoramic vistas, this trek hits the mark. It’s a good fit for travelers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
The Sum Up
The Aspromonte Trails Trek to Montalto Summit offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural symbols, and personalized guidance. It’s an excellent choice for adventure-minded travelers seeking a day away from the coast, immersed in Italy’s rugged inland landscapes. The views from the summit are stunning enough that they make the effort worthwhile, especially with the added bonus of the Christ the Redeemer statue as a striking focal point.
The tour’s private format and knowledgeable guide make it especially appealing to those who value tailored experiences and local insights. While transportation logistics require some planning, the overall value of the trek—both in scenery and guided expertise—is hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious explorer, this adventure offers a genuine taste of Calabria’s wild, scenic side.
FAQs
Do I need to be very fit to do this trek?
While the trek isn’t overly technical, it involves walking on uneven paths and some uphill sections. A reasonable level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience comfortably.
Is transportation included?
No, you need your own vehicle or arrange a transfer to the meeting point. The tour starts at Piazza Mangeruca, about 12 km from Gambarie.
What should I bring on the hike?
A packed lunch, comfortable hiking shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to stay comfortable during the 6-hour activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is this a group tour?
It’s a private tour, so you’ll have Lorenzo’s full attention and personalized guidance throughout the trek.
What are the main highlights I’ll see?
You’ll experience panoramic mountain views, the Christ the Redeemer statue, the wind rose, and walks through lush forests of Aspromonte National Park.