Monte Gariglione

Monte Gariglione is a mountain summit in Sila National Park that rises to about 1765 meters. The peak is surrounded by forests of beech, fir, and aspen trees interspersed with granite outcrops that emerge from the landscape.

Barracks were built on the mountain's slopes in 1908 to process timber for railway sleepers, but operations were abandoned just six years later in 1914. This brief industrial chapter eventually gave way to the natural landscape visitors see today.

Ancient Greeks named the mountain after the Turkey oak, which they considered sacred to Zeus and planted extensively throughout the region.

You can reach the summit by following a trail from the barracks site that takes roughly two hours of walking. The route is straightforward to hike with gradual elevation gain throughout.

During winter, the mountain slopes transform into suitable terrain for cross-country skiing with paths overlooking valleys below. Many visitors are surprised to discover this winter sports option in the southern Italian landscape.