Plizio Visual Lab
Sila Grande
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Weather…
Water temperature…
Sila Grande is the central and most extensive part of the Sila massif in Calabria, situated primarily within the province of Cosenza. This granitic plateau is characterized by its rolling hills, vast valleys, and dense forests of Calabrian pine and beech trees, earning it the nickname 'The Sylvan Heart of Italy.' With an average elevation of around 1,300 meters, it enjoys a cool climate that contrasts sharply with the Mediterranean heat of the surrounding lowlands. The area features several large artificial lakes, such as Lake Cecita and Lake Arvo, created in the mid-20th century for hydroelectric power and irrigation. Historically, its timber was highly prized by the Romans for shipbuilding and the construction of monumental structures. Today, Sila Grande is the core of the Sila National Park, a protected area since 2002 that supports diverse wildlife including wolves and deer, and is a hub for sustainable tourism.
- Location: Italy
- Top sights: Riserva Naturale Gallopane · Museo della Biodiversità · Parco Nazionale della Sila
- Nearby: Rossano (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 16 | 21 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 16 | 12 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 133 | 127 | 98 | 68 | 50 | 35 | 26 | 32 | 80 | 87 | 134 | 130 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Sila Grande is a vast plateau that can be visited year-round. There are numerous hiking trails and viewpoints freely accessible.
Typical hours
The area is accessible at any time as it is an open natural landscape. Some forest roads may be closed during bad weather.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout Sila Grande. The lakes and forests offer particularly excellent subjects.
Time needed
Plan at least half a day for a hike or drive through Sila Grande. For extended trips, you can allocate a full day.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the southern part of the Sila, the Sila Piccola. Nearby cities Cosenza and Catanzaro also offer cultural attractions.
Getting there
Sila Grande is accessible by car via the SS107 state road. From Cosenza, it takes about an hour to drive into the mountains.
Insider tip
Visit Lake Arvo or Lake Cecita for a boat ride. In autumn, the landscape is especially beautiful with fall foliage.
Geography
Facts
- The average altitude of the Sila Grande plateau is approximately 1,300 meters.
- Lake Cecita is the largest reservoir in the area, holding 108 million cubic meters.
- Sila National Park was established in its current administrative form in 2002.
- The highest peak in the Sila range is Botte Donato at 1,928 meters.
- The endemic Calabrian pine can grow to heights exceeding 40 meters.
- Sila Grande is home to the Giant of Sila, a grove of ancient pines over 350 years old.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Sila Grande (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Sila Grande?
The central and most famous part of the Sila massif.
Which lake is in Sila Grande?
Lake Cecita is the region's primary lake.
Which village is the main center?
Camigliatello Silano is the main tourist hub.
What is the highest mountain in Sila Grande?
Monte Botte Donato at 1928 m.
Are there wolves there?
Yes, the Apennine wolf is the symbol of the park.
Sila Grande: where is it located?
Sila Grande is located in Italy.
Sila Grande: what is there to see?
Highlights include Riserva Naturale Gallopane, Museo della Biodiversità, Parco Nazionale della Sila.
Sila Grande: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Sila Grande: why is it worth visiting?
Sila Grande is the central and most extensive part of the Sila massif in Calabria, situated primarily within the province of Cosenza.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Italy →
Nearby cities
San Vito
San Vito is a beautiful coastal area in Apulia, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea, pristine sandy stretches, and a relaxed Southe…
Lama
Lama is a tranquil coastal destination near Taranto, featuring hidden coves, crystal-clear Ionian waters, and a peaceful Southern Italian…
Reggio Calabria
Reggio Calabria is located at the tip of the Italian boot.
Catanzaro
Catanzaro is the capital of Calabria, perched on three hills overlooking the Ionian Sea.
Lamezia Terme
Lamezia Terme is located in Calabria and is a central transport hub for the region.
Crotone
Crotone is an ancient coastal city in Calabria, offering rich Greek history, a beautiful promenade, and sandy Ionian Sea beaches.
San Leonardo
San Leonardo is a tranquil coastal destination in Calabria on the Ionian Sea, cherished for its fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Potenza
Potenza is the capital of the Basilicata region, perched high in the Apennines.
Calderà
Calderà is a lively seaside resort in Sicily, part of the Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto municipality, offering wide beaches with views of the…
Milazzo
Milazzo is a historic Sicilian city, famous for its massive castle and as the main port to the Aeolian Islands.
Santa Marina
Santa Marina is the vibrant main port on Salina Island, boasting beautiful sea views, charming streets, and the relaxing Sayonara pebble …
Santa Caterina
Santa Caterina is an elegant coastal village in Salento, Apulia, famous for its lush pinewoods, historic coastal towers, and clear rocky …
Santa Maria al Bagno
Santa Maria al Bagno is a picturesque seaside resort in Salento, Puglia, known for its crystal-clear waters and charming architecture.
Mola di Bari
A vibrant port town in Puglia, famous for its fishing tradition and authentic Italian atmosphere on the Adriatic Sea.
Villanova di Ostuni
Villanova di Ostuni is a charming marina on the Adriatic Sea, serving as the historical port for the renowned White City of Ostuni in Pug…
