Welcome to Delianuova and its surroundings, a territory full of surprises and natural beauty. This page is your guide to discovering enchanting trails, neighboring towns rich in history and tradition, and areas of interest that will take your breath away. Get ready to explore a region where unspoiled nature blends with local culture, offering unforgettable experiences to every visitor.
In the heart of the Aspromonte mountains, at approximately 1,300 m.a.s.l. (meters above sea level), lie the Piani di Carmelia, within the municipality of Delianuova. This place is an oasis of peace and an ideal rest stop for those wishing to explore the natural beauties of Aspromonte or simply enjoy a moment of relaxation immersed in pristine nature. It is also a favorite destination for families who spend pleasant days outdoors, picnicking and enjoying the tranquility of the landscape.
The Overlook (Belvedere): The view from the Carmelia viewpoint is a true spectacle. It is the perfect spot to take breathtaking sunset photographs.
Fountains and Picnic Area: The Carmelia fountains offer fresh, refreshing water in a charming natural setting. The picnic area surrounding the fountains is the perfect place for an outdoor lunch with friends and family.
Church of Madonna della Salute: A significant place of worship and a symbol of local tradition; the feast is celebrated on the last Sunday of August.
Pietra Salva: Nestled in the quiet of the pine forest, just 2 km from the picnic area, stands Pietra Salva, one of the “giants” of Aspromonte. This rock, shrouded in mystery, holds an ancient legend: it is said that the brave soul who can circle the rock three times while holding their breath will be worthy of revealing the secret of the “goose that lays the golden eggs.” A mystery waiting to be discovered by those willing to challenge fate.
Video by Giampiero Licastro
Delianuova is crossed by many trails rich in history and natural beauty that wind through the Aspromonte National Park. Here are the three main ones: The Brigand’s Trail, blending nature and legend; The Faithful’s Trail, which guides pilgrims toward the Madonna of the Mountain; and the Delianuova – Bova trail, retracing the steps of the Greek colonists who founded Paracorio and, more recently, the route of Norman Douglas as he crossed the Aspromonte.
Note: The information provided here is for guidance only. For more details, it is advisable to hire a certified Park Guide.
The Brigand’s Trail (Sentiero del Brigante). This evocative path passes through Delianuova, running from Gambarie across the Aspromonte mountains to the Serre massif. It is a mountain pass used for centuries by locals trading goods, by armies avoiding urbanized areas, and by fugitives, heroes, and brigands—from Spartacus to Giuseppe Musolino, the “King of Aspromonte.” Today, much of this trail overlaps with the Sentiero Italia. For more info check the dedicated website.
Difficulty: E
Duration: 3–5 days (100 km)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +2740 m / -2220 m
Locations: Gambarie, Piani di Carmelia, Zervò, Passo del Mercante, Limina, Croce Ferrata, Mongiana, Bivongi/Stilo, Serra San Bruno.
A path connecting Delianuova to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Polsi. For centuries, this trail was used by pilgrims traveling on foot to fulfill a vow to the Virgin Mary. This trail was primarily used by the inhabitants of Delianuova and neighboring towns, as well as by pilgrims coming from Sicily. In fact, churches dedicated to the Madonna della Montagna di Polsi can be found in Ganzirri (Messina) and Syracuse. For these pilgrims, the route through Delianuova was—and still is—the shortest way to reach the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Polsi
Difficulty: E
Duration: 6–7 hours (18.3 km)
Elevation Gain: 950 m
Locations: Delianuova, Piani di Carmelia, Bivio Mastrangelo, Sanctuary of the Madonna di Polsi.
A crossing from the Tyrrhenian side to the Ionian side, traversing the Aspromonte range. Historical reconstruction suggests that the inhabitants of the ancient Greek colony of Delia moved up the mountain to settle in areas safer from Saracen sea attacks. This trail served until the mid-19th century to facilitate contacts and exchanges between Bova, Pedavoli, and Paracorio.
In 2022, following in the footsteps of Norman Douglas, Alfonso Picone Chiodo and a team of guides completed the crossing in 16 hours, read the full article.
Difficulty: EE (Certified Park Guide strongly recommended).
Duration: 16 hours (56 km)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +2180 m / -2800 m
Locations: Delianuova, Piani di Carmelia, Materazzelli, Pedavoli, Roghudi, Bova, Bova Marina.
A trail to retrace the ancient tradition of olive oil production amidst ruins and panoramas. Starting from Santa Cristina, you travel towards the ruins of the ancient village and the Norman castle, then to the old olive mills—Macchina Vergara and Macchina Longo.
The route continues through the Vallone Lo Schiavo and past the Cesarini mill with its characteristic small wooden and iron bridge, eventually reaching Delianuova.
Difficulty: T (Participants must be fit for long-distance walking).
Duration: 4 hours (7.5 km)
Elevation Gain: 600 m
Locations:S.Cristina, Scido, Delianuova
The territory of Delianuova is crossed by numerous cycling-friendly roads. The most important is the section from Canolo to Gambarie, which passes through Piani di Carmelia and is part of the Ciclovia dei Parchi della Calabria.
For further information, please refer to the official ‘Ciclovia dei Parchi della Calabria’ website available at the following link.
Winding through the Piani di Carmelia, the trail leads to the charming little Church of the Madonna della Salute. At kilometer 34, it enters a pine forest, and after a few kilometers, you encounter Pietra Salva, one of the great rocks that dot the Aspromonte Geosite.
Legend has it that whoever manages to walk a full circle around the rock formation while holding their breath will find the goose that lays the golden eggs.
The path, framed by the interplay of light and shadow filtered through the tall pine trees, offers views of incomparable beauty, where the majesty of the mountains blends with the serenity of the forest
Route: Canolo – Gambarie
Difficulty: Very Fit
Duration: 4 hours 20 minutes (56.8 km)
Elevation Gain: +1300 m
Delianuova borders 3 municipalities in the province of Reggio Calabria:
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