Best attractions and places to see around San Martino Di Finita include historical landmarks, cultural insights, and natural beauty. This Arbëreshë village in Calabria, founded by Albanian refugees, preserves its unique language and traditions. The area features rich biodiversity, with woods at higher altitudes and Mediterranean scrub at lower elevations. San Martino Di Finita is situated on the eastern slopes of Mount Serra Nicolino, within the middle valley of the Crati river.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
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Lago della Paglia is a small natural lake located in the municipality of Fagnano Castello, in the province of Cosenza, Calabria. It is located on the slopes of Mount Caloria, in the Calabrian Coastal Chain, at an altitude of about 964 meters above sea level. Natural characteristics The lake is immersed in a wooded environment composed mainly of beech, conifer, chestnut and oak trees, offering a suggestive and peaceful landscape. With a surface area that is just over a hectare, Lago della Paglia is one of the smallest lakes in the area, but it is a popular destination for its natural beauty. Activities and accessibility The lake is easily accessible via well-marked hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for hikers and families. On its shores there is a picnic area, perfect for a relaxing day immersed in nature. Environmental context Lago della Paglia is part of the Monte Caloria Natural Park, a nature reserve established in 1990 that covers about 940 hectares. The area is managed by the Municipal Administration of Fagnano Castello and offers numerous paths and panoramic points for nature lovers and hikers. How to get there Lago della Paglia is located a short distance from the center of Fagnano Castello. It can be reached via the Strada Statale delle Terme or by following the "strada dei laghi" that connects the various bodies of water in the area
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The Caserma Forestale di Cinquemiglia is a historic structure located in the municipality of Fuscaldo, in the province of Cosenza, Calabria. Once the headquarters of the Guardia Forestale, today it serves as a reference point for hikers and nature lovers. Location and accessibility Located at approximately 1,025 meters above sea level, the barracks is located along the Strada Provinciale 31 Mavigliano-Fuscaldo . It can be reached by car, but is not served by public transport . To access the structure, it is necessary to contact the number +39 333 304 2988 in advance . Historical and cultural significance The barracks has represented a point of reference for local communities for decades, especially for the residents of Fuscaldo. In addition to its original function, today it is a place of rest and refuge for hikers who walk the trails of the area . Hiking routes The Cinquemiglia Forestry Barracks is a stop on several hiking trails, including: CAI Italian Trail – Stage U25: connects the Crocetta Pass to the barracks, crossing woods and offering suggestive views. CAI Italian Trail – Stage U26: continues from the barracks to Pietrabianca, along a path immersed in nature. GEF01 Cinquemiglia – Spinelli Ruin: connects the barracks to the Spinelli Ruin, the ancient home of the Spinelli family, crossing mountain landscapes. Flora and fauna The surrounding area has a rich biodiversity. At higher altitudes there are beech and turkey oak woods, while descending you will encounter typical Mediterranean scrub species, such as the Neapolitan alder and the holm oak. Tips for visitors Overnight stay: the barracks can offer hospitality, but it is necessary to book in advance. Equipment: It is recommended to wear appropriate clothing and bring water and food supplies, as services in the area are limited. Best time: Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and breathtaking landscapes, ideal for hiking. The Caserma Forestale di Cinquemiglia is an ideal destination for those who want to explore the natural beauty of Calabria and immerse themselves in the tranquility of its mountain landscapes.
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Rock and famous place because it is fueled by various legends as well as being a beautiful seaside place to swim in the summer
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Characteristic natural landscape around this pond
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Lago della Paglia is one of the lakes of Fagnano Castello, a village famous for the production of chestnuts. It is located at over 1000 meters of altitude, and you can stop at one of the picnic areas to admire the view of Mount Caloria.
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On the shores of Lago della Paglia there is a picnic area. This place is ideal for families, for a relaxing day.
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Walking along the Sentiero Italia and the Sentiero dei Viandanti you come across this pretty little lake, the perfect place for a break.
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The monument "San Francesco in Cammino" is located on Monte Palazzello, at an altitude of 1,350 m, along the border line between Fuscaldo and San Benedetto Ullano. It is a graphic project by Alessandro Mantuano made in corten steel by Domenico Feoli and financed thanks to private donations. The monument consists of three silhouettes. The first represents Francesco di Paola, at a young age, leading the way, carrying the stick above which a stylized sun has been placed which represents the logo of our Way, which in turn recalls the emblem of the Order of Minims . The choice to pay homage to a young and dynamic Friar has historical reasons. In fact, Francesco frequently crossed the woods to collect wood at the time of the construction of the convent of Paola. At that time - he was just over thirty years old - he personally devoted himself to the work, and this is the reason why we wanted to commemorate an energetic young man, barefoot - as was his habit - and who, with sure, chart the way forward. The silhouettes of two pilgrims following Francis were placed a short distance away. These two figures represent a tribute to all the wayfarers, hikers and pilgrims who, even today after centuries, decide to tackle the Way in the footsteps of Saint Francis. The man and woman hold hands as a sign of adherence to the message of charity launched by the Patron Saint of Calabria. Deliberately, the monument has no particular artistic ambitions, it is discreet (it can be removed), and it was made of a non-precious material in order to be consistent with the humble and sober lifestyle of Francis, the Saint of Lenten penance.
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The region boasts several natural points of interest. You can visit Lago della Paglia, a picturesque lake with a picnic area, or the tranquil Laghicello, a perfect spot for a break along hiking trails. Don't miss the unique Queen's Rock, a notable natural monument. The surrounding area is also rich in biodiversity, featuring beech and turkey oak woods at higher altitudes and Mediterranean scrub at lower elevations.
Yes, the area offers various hiking trails. The Cinquemiglia Forest Station serves as a reference point for hikers and is a stop on several Italian Alpine Club (CAI) trails, such as Stage U25 and U26, which traverse scenic woods. You can find more detailed hiking routes, including loops around Laghicello, on the Hiking around San Martino Di Finita guide.
San Martino Di Finita is rich in history and culture. You can explore the main church, Chiesa di San Martino Vescovo, with its baroque interior, or the historic Santuario della Madonna della Misericordia. The village also features the Monumento al Popolo Arbëreshë, celebrating the town's unique Albanian heritage, and the Monumento ai Caduti per la Patria.
Absolutely. Lago della Paglia is an ideal destination for families, offering a picnic area amidst a wooded environment. The Queen's Rock is also considered family-friendly, providing a unique natural landmark to explore.
Spring and autumn are generally the best times to visit for outdoor activities like hiking. These seasons offer mild temperatures and breathtaking landscapes, making them ideal for exploring the region's trails and natural beauty.
Yes, San Martino Di Finita is an Arbëreshë village, founded by Albanian refugees, and proudly preserves its unique language and traditions. The Monumento al Popolo Arbëreshë is a testament to this rich cultural heritage. Walking through the Historic Town Center, you'll find narrow streets and squares that still retain their Albanian place names, offering a glimpse into its past.
For cycling enthusiasts, there are several road cycling routes in the vicinity. You can find options like the Critical Mass loops or routes offering panoramic views of Lake Tarsia. Explore these and more on the Road Cycling Routes around San Martino Di Finita guide.
The San Francesco in Cammino Monument is located on Monte Palazzello at an altitude of 1,350 meters. It depicts three silhouettes, with the first representing Saint Francis of Paola leading the way. The other two figures pay tribute to all wayfarers, hikers, and pilgrims who follow in the footsteps of Saint Francis, the Patron Saint of Calabria.
For a relaxing day immersed in nature, Lago della Paglia is an excellent choice. It features a dedicated picnic area, making it perfect for families or anyone seeking a tranquil break by the water.
The landscape around San Martino Di Finita is diverse and rich in biodiversity. At higher altitudes, you'll find beech and turkey oak woods, while lower elevations feature Mediterranean scrub with species like Neapolitan alder and holm oak. The town itself is situated on the eastern slopes of Mount Serra Nicolino, within the middle valley of the Crati river.
Yes, the middle valley of the Crati river, where San Martino Di Finita is located, is known for the production of Bruzio DOP - Valle Crati extra virgin olive oil. This regional product reflects the agricultural heritage of the area.


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