Attractions and Places To See around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre include a diverse range of natural features and historical sites. This protected natural area in Calabria, Italy, spans approximately 18,000 hectares across three provinces. The park is characterized by its extensive forests, mountain ranges, and numerous watercourses, alongside significant cultural and spiritual landmarks. It offers varied landscapes and insights into ancient traditions.
Best attractions and places to see around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre
- The most popular attractions is Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, a religious building that offers insights into monastic life. This historic Carthusian monastery, founded by Saint Bruno of Cologne, is a spiritual and cultural center of the region.
- Another must-see spot is Marmarico Waterfall, a natural monument. It is the highest waterfall in the southern Apennines, with an overall height of 114 meters.
- Visitors also love Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, a religious building surrounded by ancient silver firs and beech trees. This sanctuary is a major tourist and religious attraction where Saint Bruno spent the last ten years of his life.
- Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre is known for its waterfalls, historical sites, and religious buildings. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from natural monuments to cultural landmarks.
- The attractions around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre are appreciated by the komoot community, with 43 upvotes and 19 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno
Highlight • Religious Site
The Charterhouse of Santo Stefano
The first monastery was in the Dauphiné, a region on the western slope of the Alps, southwest of Savoy, near the present city of Grenoble, in the summer of 1084, for the feast of John the Baptist, in a mountainous and wooded area, at 1175 m .above sea level, in the heart of the massif called "Cartusia" in Bruno's time, hence the Italian name "Certosa" and the French name "Chartreuse".
The construction work started immediately and progressed quickly. In fact, the main part had to be completed before the start of winter. The cells for the hermits were built around a spring and had to resemble the huts of shepherds and woodcutters: primitive and rustic construction, but fairly solid. In fact, they had to withstand the weight of snow from year to year. At first, each house (or cell) housed two monks, probably to save time and funds; Only later did each loner have his own cell.
The church was the only stone building: a sine qua non for its consecration, which took place on September 2, 1085 for the service of Bishop Ugo and under the patronage of Our Lady and the Baptist. Today, on the site where the cells of the first Carthusians once stood, there is a chapel called "Chapel of San Bruno" and another dedicated to the Madonna called "Madonna di Casalibus". The life of those first fathers of the Gran Certosa is known to us through the testimonies of the writer Guigo in the life of Saint Hugh and the traveler Guiberto di Nogent, from which, adding some information contained in the "Customs" of Guigo and some important ones phrases of the letters of Saint Bruno, Venerable and Saint Bernard create a picturesque image of fervor, rigor and the authentic monastic spirit. Bishop Hugo gave them every security, protecting them in any dispute with neighbors and allowing Bruno and his family full ownership of the Chartreuse desert. The new loners could then live there completely separated from the world in a legally untouchable retreat that only formed the outer framework of an existence in which the essentials were elsewhere. Saint Bruno displayed paternal care for his brothers and a sense of balance and measure that made him say to his own, perhaps too fervently, as is customary for beginners: "If the bow is constantly stretched, it loosens and becomes for less suitable for his task". Instead, when he stayed too long with the monks for solitude's sake, his friend Hugh reminded the Bishop of Grenoble of the duties of his ministry: "Go to your sheep". Seeing the beautiful cliffs covered with snow and glowing in the sun, he let his deep and contemplative heart expand his habitual prayer of admiration and adoration of the Creator: "O goodness of God!".
Text / Source: Serra San Bruno
visitserrasanbruno.it/visitare-serra-san-bruno/la-certosa-di-santo-stefano
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Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco
Highlight • Religious Site
Surrounded by centuries-old silver firs and young beech trees, the complex of the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Bosco is the site of the largest tourist and religious attraction in the Serra San Bruno.
In the summer, tens of thousands of visitors relax in the places where he spent the last ten years of his life and where Saint Bruno of Cologne died.
The church of Santa Maria della Torre, consecrated by the Archbishop of Palermo in 1094, gave way to the small sanctuary of Santa Maria del Bosco after the earthquake. The spirit of Bruno, who lived and died in this place, still lives and provokes and moves us among these centuries-old trees and near this stream that bathes his feet.
visitserrasanbruno.it/visitare-serra-san-bruno/le-chiese/santuario-di-santa-maria-nel-bosco/il-santuario
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San Bruno Pond
Highlight • Lake
The lake recalls the legend according to which San Bruno did penance and prayed kneeling in the water 1645,
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Marmarico Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
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Baroness Scoppa Castle
Highlight • Castle
It is thought that the castle was built around the early 1500s, while it certainly has the name of the last owner: Maria Enrichetta Scoppa, Baroness of Badolato.
Donna Scoppa had elected the Cardinal Castle as a summer residence, and it was so until her death.
Even if she is described as a woman of deep religious feelings, the baroness would be at the origin of a legend. In fact, it is said that Donna Scoppa, in search of silent and easy amorous adventures, used to host young people from the town in her castle destined, after having enjoyed the baroness, to disappear into the surrounding marshes. There is also a story of a small church near the castle, among the marshes, of which trace has mysteriously been lost and for which no explanations can yet be given. So: a place to visit, but… beware of the swamps!
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Popular around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre
Tips from the Community
Waterfalls where you can swim in the warmer months, reachable from Ferdinandea via a panoramic trek or from a rest point in 30 minutes
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Trekking & Yoga Day: A special day dedicated to relaxation.
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Serra San Bruno is worth a visit. Its historic center, full of characteristic churches, the tree-lined avenue leading to the Certosa, and last but not least, the Hermitage of San Bruno, where you can enjoy the cool, tranquil atmosphere, especially during the week. There's also a stream, a cool path, and tables where you can rest under the trees, perhaps enjoying a bite to eat.
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Magnificent Charterhouse. A must-visit. Info: https://www.certosini.info/
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Beautiful pond, built from granite stone
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Beautiful pilgrimage site where Saint Bruno lived.
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Waterfalls of impressive height, especially when observed from the highest pool. It is possible to bathe in both pools in summer.
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Very suggestive place for its history, the castle and the nature that surrounds it, not to be missed
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most impressive natural features to explore in Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre?
The park is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the Marmarico Waterfall, the highest waterfall in the southern Apennines, or experience the tranquility of Lake Angitola, a significant wetland for migratory birds. The region is also known for its vast forests, including the Archiforo Wood, ideal for forest bathing, and the scenic mountain ranges of Monte Pecoraro and Monte Covello.
Can I visit historical sites and learn about the region's past?
Yes, the park offers several historical sites. While the Carthusian monastery itself maintains seclusion, you can visit the adjoining museum at the Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno to learn about monastic life. Other notable sites include the mysterious Baroness Scoppa Castle, the Royal Ironworks and Bourbon Factories in Mongiana (an industrial ecomuseum), and the ancient Megaliths of Nardodipace.
Are there any spiritual or religious sites worth visiting in the park?
Absolutely. The region has a strong spiritual heritage. The Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno is a significant spiritual center. You can also visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, surrounded by ancient trees, where Saint Bruno spent his last years, and the nearby San Bruno Pond, associated with the saint's penance.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous trails for hiking, running, and cycling. For detailed routes, explore the guides for Hiking around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre, Running Trails around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre, and Cycling around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre?
Many attractions in the park are suitable for families. Natural sites like Lake Angitola offer opportunities for walks and canoeing. The museum at the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno provides an engaging look into monastic life, and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco is a peaceful place for all ages. Several hiking trails are also categorized as family-friendly.
What cultural insights can I gain from visiting the villages within the park?
The park's villages offer a glimpse into traditional Calabrian life. Serra San Bruno, often called the 'capital' of the Serre Calabresi, features Baroque churches and local artisans working with granite, wood, and wrought iron. You can also visit the Museum of Peasant and Artisan Civilisation in Monterosso Calabro to understand the region's historical connection to textile processing and rural traditions.
What is the best time of year to visit Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre?
The park is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer is popular for religious and tourist attractions like the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the forests, with vibrant foliage in fall. Winter can bring snow to higher elevations, offering a different, serene experience.
Where can I find information about hiking trails and their difficulty?
The park offers a wide network of hiking trails for various skill levels. You can find detailed information, including difficulty grades and distances, in the Hiking around Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre guide. Popular trails include the 'Brigante Trail,' 'Waterfalls trail,' and 'Frassati Path'.
Are there any unique local crafts or traditions to discover?
Yes, the park is known for its traditional crafts. You can find communities that maintain ancient practices such as woodworking, stone carving, and basket weaving. Ceramics from Gerocarne and artisan pipes from Brognaturo are also notable. In Serra San Bruno, you might even encounter charcoal burners, continuing a generations-old practice.
What do visitors enjoy most about Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre?
Visitors frequently appreciate the park's blend of natural beauty and historical depth. The stunning Marmarico Waterfall is a highlight, as is the spiritual atmosphere of the Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco. The extensive forests and diverse landscapes also receive high praise for their tranquility and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Is there a visitor center for information and environmental education?
Yes, the Centro Visite Rosarella serves as a key hub for visitors to the Serre Regional Natural Park. It offers environmental education initiatives and can provide further information to help you explore the area.
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