Gambarie

Gambarie lies at an altitude of about 1,350 metres above sea level in the heart of Parco Nazionale dell'Aspromonte. Ski slopes, hiking trails, nature and local history offer different points to consider when planning a trip. Think about which aspects of your stay matter most to you when choosing Gambarie as a destination.

Winter sports in a forested landscape

The ski slopes in Gambarie run through pine, fir and beech forests and offer views of the Strait of Messina. The forest and distant views are defining features of the landscape described here. Snow tubing takes place on a synthetic track using inflatable tubes. Those interested in winter sports will find this alternative activity alongside the ski slopes.

Hiking stages and longer trails

The Sentiero Calabria stage from Gambarie to Montalto is 14.22 kilometres long, takes about four hours and is rated E, meaning moderately difficult. The duration and difficulty rating help you assess this specific stage. It offers views of Mount Etna, the Aeolian Islands, and the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. Check trail conditions before setting out.

Another stage leads from Gambarie to Polsi via Montalto. From there, the route offers views stretching from eastern Sicily to the Sila and from the Ionian Sea to the Tyrrhenian Sea. Gambarie is also the starting point for the Sentiero del Brigante, a trail more than 140 kilometres long that is recognised in Mibact's hiking trail atlas. This longer route is clearly different from the 14.22-kilometre stage to Montalto.

For cyclists, the Cycle Path of the Calabria Parks runs from Gambarie to Reggio Calabria. The route is 31.8 kilometres long and rated challenging. Routes compiled by Gambarie Trekking have a specific navigational note: they are not specially marked. The municipal portal recommends using the GPX tracks provided and checking both actual trail accessibility and maintenance conditions before setting out.

Nature in the surrounding area

In nearby Cucullaro, the Osservatorio per la Biodiversità provides information about the flora, fauna, habitats and ecosystems of Calabria, particularly those of Parco Nazionale dell'Aspromonte. The observatory includes a botanical trail with eight stations. Bilingual signs introduce 21 tree species along the way, linking individual plant species with broader themes of forests and biodiversity.

Lago Rumia, a small artificial lake at an altitude of about 1,300 metres, is also close to Gambarie. It is located in San Roberto, serves as an excursion destination for hikers and is equipped for trout fishing. The ASPROPARK adventure park is near Gambarie d’Aspromonte, five minutes away in a natural setting, and is designed for adults and children. Check the latest information about its location and facilities before visiting.

Local history and sights

Gambarie was founded around the 1920s, with lumberjacks and shepherds forming the first settlement. The first holiday villas, hotels and ski slope were established between the 1930s and 1960s. The first chairlift was built in 1956. This development links the history of the settlement with its later emergence as a winter sports destination, while keeping the different periods distinct.

A distinctive stone fountain stands in the centre of Piazza Mangeruca. The Chiesa del Sacro Cuore in Gambarie dates from the mid-19th century. Alongside these structures, the Superfici Terrazzate di Gambarie provide insight into the geological and prehistoric past: they include marine deposits, volcanic layers and prehistoric archaeological remains. These are associated with the area's emergence from the sea during the Quaternary.

Whether your focus is on the ski slopes, a particular hiking stage, nature or local history, you can assess Gambarie as a destination based on these specific interests. The stage details distinguish a hike of around four hours from longer trails; sights and nature destinations add further themes to consider for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Ardore Marina, San Luca, Pozzi, Stilo, Gerace, Martone, Mammola, Santa Domenica.

For the broader travel overview: Reggio Calabria.