Places
Hike·Easy·Relaxing·Hidden gem
Via Verde del Pollino, Rotonda
Basilicata
The Mercure valley near Rotonda inside the Pollino National Park has a valley path along the river — otter is confirmed at multiple points (one of the densest otter populations in southern Italy). Kingfisher on every bend. The valley has three Byzantine-origin villages: Rotonda, Viggianello and Lauria. The Mercure river is exceptionally clean. Golden eagle and peregrine on the Pollino ridges above. Dogs off-leash.
Duration
3 hours
Distance
8 km
Elevation
+100 m
Best season
Year-round
Highlights
- One of densest otter populations in southern Italy
- Byzantine-origin villages in the valley
- Kingfisher on every bend — exceptionally clean river
With your dog
Valley trail; dogs off-leash.
