Cilento: land of history, myths and legends
Castellabate
Castellabate is an ancient medieval village located in the Cilento National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site listed as one of the “Borgo dei Borghi” (Most Beautiful Villages in Italy). Castellabate has all the features of a medieval village: adjoining houses, narrow alleys, and little squares. At the top of the hill stands the Castrum Abbatis (Abbot’s Castle) founded in 1123, an ancient manor house that is now a place of culture, with events and shows of international interest. The village, also made famous by the film “Benvenuti al Sud” (Welcome to the South), offers the perfect combination of history and nature. From the Belvedere San Costabile and other spots, you can enjoy a unique view: to the south the island of Leucosia, and to the north the Tresino hill, a gem set between nature and the sea.
Punta Licosa
Punta Licosa, from the Greek Leukosia, gets its name from one of the three sirens that, according to legend, Ulysses crossed during his journey. The island of Licosa is accessible by sea, while the hamlet of Ogliastro-Licosa can be reached on foot taking two roads: the first starts from the bay of Ogliastro Marina and passes through a tree-lined avenue of about 5 km before arriving to the little beach of Licosa. The latter, recommended for hiking lovers, starts from San Marco di Castellabate (harbour area) and reaches Licosa after a walk of 3 km in the Mediterranean flora, with wonderful views on the sea and the Amalfi Coast.
Archaeological Park of Paestum and Velia
The archaeological areas of Paestum and Velia represent an important heritage of Magna Graecia. The ticket, valid for 3 days, includes a free shuttle bus that connects the two sites. Further information about timetables, tickets and the bus service are available on the Paestum Museum website.
Paestum
The archaeological area of Paestum includes the external site and the museum, which keeps the metopes of the Heraion and the famous “Diver’s tomb”. Founded around 600 BC, probably as a colony of Sybaris, under the name of Poseidonia, the ancient city changed its name to the present Paestum when it became a Roman colony in 273 BC. The archaeological site features three temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, the ruins of the amphitheatre, and some Roman residences.
Velia
Elea, founded around 540 BC, is known today as Velia. Within the archaeological area you can visit the ancient town, with its Greek and Roman buildings, the necropolis, the extraordinary “Porta Rosa”, the oldest example of a round arch of Italy, the domus with their mosaics, and the thermal areas. The centre of the city was the Agora, which served as the sanctuary of Asclepius with arches and fountains, while on the Acropolis there are remains of ancient buildings, a Roman theatre, a temple and a medieval castle.
Zipline “Cilento in Volo”
Over 120 km/h at more than 300 metres above sea level surrounded by nature. The zipline “Cilento in Volo” is located in Trentinara, a hamlet not far from Paestum, and will allow you to admire sunsets and breathtaking views over the Gulf of Salerno, the sea of Paestum, and the entire Cilento Coast.
Hiking and Excursions
The Cilento area, with its wonderful landscapes and nature trails, is a paradise for hiking and adventure lovers. Famous paths such as the “Sentiero degli Innamorati” (Lovers’ Path), together with the possibility of kayaking along the river Calore, are just some of the options that allow you to enjoy breathtaking views, and varied flora and fauna. To learn more and discover the possibilities offered by the area, consult the websites of Archeotrekking and Cilentamente.
Guided tour and mozzarella tasting at “Tenuta Vannulo”
Visiting “Tenuta Vannulo” in Paestum, with its farm, the Museum of Farming Culture, and the leather shop is an incredible experience. Guided tours explore the farm, dairy and buffalo farming, showing a production process that keeps ancient production techniques alive, while respecting the environment and animal well-being. Take a break at its bar and shop, where you can taste and buy all the products made in the farm.
Wine tasting
In Cilento, wine lovers can enjoy tasting at well-known wineries, discovering excellent local wine and products. The “Colle del Corsicano” and “Azienda Agricola San Giovanni” estates, located on opposite sides of the Cilento coast, offer authentic visiting experiences, while at the “Cantina Tredaniele” in Trentinara you can live a unique experience with events and beautiful views over Paestum and the Cilento Coast.
Colle del Corsicano
Azienda Agricola San GIovanni
Cantine Tredaniele
