Attractions and Places To See around San Lorenzo Del Vallo - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around San Lorenzo Del Vallo, an Arbëreshë town in Calabria, Italy, offer a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty. Situated at 330 meters above sea level in the Esaro Valley, the town is known for its tranquil atmosphere and agricultural heritage, particularly its production of Bruzio DOP extra virgin olive oil. The region features peaceful hilly landscapes and is about 20 km from the sea. Visitors can explore its unique cultural…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
A breathtaking view
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
The Calabrian mountains are a real show, I suggest you observe and photograph them.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Road through the orchards
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Lake Tarsia
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Altomonte
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Church of San Francesco di Paola (Altomonte)
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around San Lorenzo Del Vallo.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around San Lorenzo Del Vallo
Tips from the Community
A rather characteristic and beautiful place that can be visited throughout the year. The dam has beautiful vegetation with various species of birds. Furthermore, traffic from the dam to Cantinella Corigliano is limited, good for bicycles...
0
0
Today, the Fiat 500 is one of the most photographed classic cars in the world. The first versions had a two-cylinder engine with a capacity of just 479 cm³ and a power of… 13 HP! And yet the car could reach speeds of over 80 km/h – with a tailwind and a light driver 😉
1
0
The Fiat 500 is a moving reminder of Italy's past, and the Altomonte is a permanent reminder of its history. Both are small, but big in their own way. The Altomonte is squeezed into the green hills of Calabria like the Cinquecento into the narrow streets of Naples.
1
0
Francis of Paola (1416–1507) was an Italian monk and mystic, founder of the Order of Minims. He came from the town of Paola in Calabria, hence his nickname "of Paola". He was known for his austere life, humility and the numerous miracles attributed to him. In 1519 he was canonized by Pope Leo X, and his cult is particularly strong in southern Italy, especially in Calabria, where he is still venerated as the patron saint of the region and protector of the faithful.
1
0
The Church of San Francesco di Paola in Altomonte is an important pilgrimage site in Calabria, especially for those following in the footsteps of St. Francis of Paola. It is part of a wider pilgrimage context that includes various locations linked to the life of the saint. One of the main pilgrimage routes is the Cammino di San Francesco di Paola, a long-distance route of 247 km, divided into 12 stages. This route passes through places linked to the life of the saint in Calabria, including Altomonte. Pilgrims can walk through various stages, such as "La Via dei Monasteri", which connects the monasteries founded by St. Francis in the region. The Cammino offers spiritual support, including the possibility of obtaining a Testimonium after completing the route, which is a confirmation of having made the pilgrimage.
1
0
The Church of San Francesco di Paola in Altomonte is one of the most important places of worship in Calabria, combining spirituality with a rich artistic and historical heritage. It was built in 1635 and completed in 1770, in Baroque style.
1
0
Cloister of the Cathedral of Altomonte
0
0
This road is an extraordinary setting for viewing the majestic Pollino peaks on the horizon, a unique spectacle of mother nature. Crossing it, you will find yourself in a landscape characterized by an incredible number of orchards, in particular picturesque orange and lemon plantations. The route winds through many fruit trees, offering an enchanting and enveloping perspective. A journey that combines the magnificence of the mountains with the richness of fertile soil, offering an unforgettable experience.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in San Lorenzo del Vallo?
San Lorenzo del Vallo is rich in history. You can visit the imposing Castello di San Lorenzo del Vallo (Alarcon Castle), a 15th-century architectural complex with four corner towers. Another ancient structure is the Castello Jentilino (Jentilino Tower), a medieval defense tower dating back to the 10th century, strategically positioned in the Esaro Valley.
Are there any significant cultural sites to visit in the town?
Yes, the main cultural site is the Chiesa di San Lorenzo Martire, erected around 1740, featuring three naves and a square-based bell tower. The town also offers a unique cultural experience through its Arbëreshë heritage, reflected in its traditions and historical architecture as you explore the 'Scorci del Borgo' (glimpses of the village).
What natural attractions are there around San Lorenzo del Vallo?
The region offers beautiful natural spots. You can visit Lago di Fedula, a natural lake a short distance from the town center. Additionally, Lake Tarsia, an artificial lake created for irrigation, is surrounded by a nature reserve rich in flora and fauna. The picturesque Valle dell'Esaro itself provides peaceful hilly landscapes, known for its agricultural vocation.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near San Lorenzo del Vallo?
The area around San Lorenzo del Vallo is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various cycling routes, including touring, road cycling, and mountain biking. For example, there are routes like the 'Calabria Parks Cycle Route: Lungro and Altomonte Loop' or 'Lake Tarsia and Sibari Plain Loop'. You can explore more options on the Cycling around San Lorenzo Del Vallo guide, the Road Cycling Routes around San Lorenzo Del Vallo guide, or the MTB Trails around San Lorenzo Del Vallo guide.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Lake Tarsia is a great spot for families to enjoy nature and observe local wildlife. The Road through the orchards offers a pleasant cycle way through picturesque orange and lemon plantations, providing a gentle and scenic experience for all ages. The nearby town of Altomonte also offers historical sites that can be explored by families.
Where can I find panoramic views of the surrounding area?
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to A breathtaking view. This viewpoint offers a magnificent stretch to observe the Calabrian mountains and the road you've traveled. It's a perfect spot for photography and appreciating the vast landscape.
What is the best time to visit San Lorenzo del Vallo for outdoor activities?
Given its location in Calabria, the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like cycling and exploring. Temperatures are milder, making it comfortable for longer excursions through the Esaro Valley and its surrounding hills. Summers can be quite warm, while winters are cooler.
What is the significance of the 'Road through the orchards'?
The Road through the orchards is an extraordinary cycle way that provides stunning views of the majestic Pollino peaks on the horizon. It winds through an incredible number of orchards, particularly picturesque orange and lemon plantations, offering an enchanting and immersive experience combining natural beauty with the region's agricultural heritage.
Can you tell me more about the nearby town of Altomonte?
Altomonte is a municipality in the province of Cosenza, situated on a promontory 455 meters high. Its historic center is worth exploring for its various monuments of artistic and cultural interest, including the Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, the Church of San Francesco di Paola, the Dominican convent, and the Norman tower.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around San Lorenzo del Vallo?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the sense of tranquility. The panoramic views from spots like A breathtaking view are highly praised, as are the unique cycling experiences through orchards with views of the Pollino peaks. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Lake Tarsia and the rich historical context of the castles and churches also leave a lasting impression.
Is San Lorenzo del Vallo known for any specific local products?
Yes, San Lorenzo del Vallo and the surrounding Esaro Valley are particularly known for their agricultural heritage, especially the production of Bruzio DOP extra virgin olive oil. This local product reflects the region's fertile soil and traditional farming practices.
How far is San Lorenzo del Vallo from the sea?
San Lorenzo del Vallo is situated inland, about 20 km from the sea. This allows visitors to enjoy the peaceful hilly landscapes and cultural sites while still being within a reasonable distance to access the Calabrian coastline.
Most popular routes around San Lorenzo Del Vallo
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
