This is a medium-length stage on the Sentiero del Brigante, entirely in the shade, with many ascents and descents (do not be fooled by the small differences in altitude: they are quite noticeable!).
The forest sometimes offers beautiful moments, especially in the finale, when crossing the Saltolavecchia stream.
The stage represents a variant of the Sentiero Italia (that leads from San Luca via Montalto to Gambarie), which is preferred here for logistical reasons.
The signposts of the Sentiero del Brigante are marked “SB”, look out for them at the crossroads.
No water points: bring a good supply.
We leave the Biancospino hut and walk backwards for the last 2 km of the previous stage, between the asphalt road and the path through the ferns. At a T-junction, we cross the road and take the wide path (almost a forest road) that enters the woods; we thus walk parallel to a road for a long time, slightly up and down. After comfortably crossing the Fiumara del Cervo (the water is very clean and is home to numerous trout) on wooden bridges, there is a climb with a constant gradient (about 200 m height difference), after which we gradually lose height with some ups and downs (about 150 m drop) until we cross another Fiumara on a bridge, after which a short but steep climb awaits us.
When we reach the clearing of Piani Quarti, we cross the path and continue up and down until we come to an asphalt road, which we take to the left; shortly afterwards we leave it and take the path to the right that descends. We come to the beautiful Saltolavecchia Stream, which has carved a small gorge in the rock; we cross it and climb up the opposite slope into an enchanting pine forest: the passage is mystical and we enjoy it in peace.
We continue gently along this path until we reach the centre of Gambarie.
Gambarie is the winter tourist resort of Reggio Calabria: 35 km from the sea, it is both a summer and winter resort - there are several ski slopes with enviable views.
The village was founded in the 1920s with the first villas and hotels.
Near Gambarie stands the Cippo di Garibaldi (Garibaldi’s Memorial Stone), a majestic tree where the famous leader rested after being wounded in the leg while climbing the Aspromonte - an event recounted in the famous song.
Some have compared them to Mexican cenotes: the Amendolea Waterfalls, also known as the Maesano Waterfalls, are a true wonder.
Three spectacular waterfalls, each a good 20 metres high, form as many emerald green pools. The falls can be reached by a short hike that starts at the dam of the Menta River.
Among the exceptional Calabrian bitters is Kaciuto, also known as Caciusso.
It is a digestive produced in Bova Marino, a town in Greek Calabria, 45 km from Reggio Calabria. It is characterised by a liquorice flavour and is enriched by numerous aromas, including Calabrian bergamot.
Casa della Candelora Don Pensabene, in Gambarie. Tel. +390965 22064
Affittacamere Home Sweet Home, in Gambarie. Tel. +39345 764 4055
Hotel Miramonti, in Gambarie. Tel. +390965 743190
The starting point is reachable by car.
The starting point is NOT reachable by bus.
The nearest location that can be reached by bus is Delianuova, starting from the city of Reggio Calabria.
Here is the LINK to check the timetables.
The starting point is NOT reachable by train
Va' Sentiero is a grassroot project, thanks to the spontaneous contribution oft housands of people.
Even the most complicated dream, a 7,000km uphill dream,
can be achieved... together.
Grazie!
