An idea for a day out
A day in Orsomarso and the Argentino valley
Just head towards Orsomarso and the sea gives way to mountains. Houses stand against the slopes, while the Argentino valley holds a river and woodland. This is a trip for a day when you feel like walking and spending longer surrounded by greenery.
Across the Cedromare guide
Travel to Orsomarso by car or pre-arranged transport. From the coast, the route leads through Marcellina and along the SP10. The reserve manager points visitors to the car park below the town hall; before setting out, choose an accessible section of the valley and allow for the walk back to the car.
Morning in Orsomarso
Start with a walk around Orsomarso itself. Find Torre dell’Orologio and walk up to Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista. Between the houses, look towards the mountains surrounding the town.
Before continuing, you could sit down for a coffee. Santa Maria di Mércuri is outside the compact centre, so check the driving and walking route in advance if you would like to see it. You can also save that visit for another trip.
Afternoon in the Argentino valley
After walking around town, head into the Argentino valley towards the river and woodland. The reserve manager lists an arboretum, a medicinal plant garden and Ficara waterfall. Ask the manager or a local guide which sections are accessible, including the path to the waterfall. Choose a route with the guide that suits your group’s abilities.
In the arboretum, take a closer look at the plants; by the river, pause for the sight of water and woodland. Even a short walk lets you spend time in surroundings very different from the seafront promenade.
Take water, something to eat and equipment suited to your chosen route. Allow for the return journey when planning. For a longer hike, it is a good idea to go with a guide who knows the valley.
If conditions are unsuitable for the valley, a walk around Orsomarso itself still makes a pleasant change. The river and woodland can wait for a finer day.
A break by the river
Rifugio Montano in Povera Mosca describes a picnic area with waterside tables, toilets, a bar and parking. Book a table directly with the venue and agree on how to get there. Summer restrictions on driving into the valley apply regardless of whether the venue has its own parking spaces.
The longer loop through Golfo della Serra and Castel di S. Noceto is a different, more extensive trip. If you choose it, keep other sightseeing to a minimum and plan the whole route with a local guide.
The reserve manager publishes separate rules for larger groups and restrictions on vehicle access. If you are going with a larger group, confirm these before your visit.
An evening by the sea
After your trip, return to the Cedromare holiday home in Santa Maria del Cedro. An evening walk by the sea or dinner on the terrace lets you enjoy the rest of the day without any more travelling.
For a meal by the sea, try Lid’Azzurro; outside the main season, check that it is open. You could also eat earlier in Orsomarso, before returning to the coast.
Papasidero and Grotta del Romito deserve another trip. Today, give your time to Orsomarso and the valley, so you can pause wherever you like best along the walk.
Further into the mountains next time
After getting to know the valley, you may feel like a more open landscape. Orsomarso and the higher parts of Pollino offer a choice between a woodland walk, a panoramic view and a summit hike. Each deserves a day of its own.