Places
Hike·Easy·Scenic·Hidden gem
Monastero di San Giovanni Theristis, Bivongi
Calabria
San Giovanni Theristis, an 11th-century Orthodox monastery once more inhabited by Greek and Romanian monks, stands among citrus and cane on the Stilaro river below Stilo and its famous Cattolica. A track up the valley continues past old ironworks and mills toward the Cascate del Marmarico, the highest falls in the region.
Duration
2–3 hours
Distance
6 km
Elevation
+200 m
Best season
April – June, September – November
Parking · Free
Free parking near the monastery below Bivongi.
Water
The Stilaro and side springs; treat before drinking.
Highlights
- Working Byzantine-rite monastery
- Stilaro valley ironworking relics
- Trailhead for the Cascate del Marmarico
With your dog
Leashed dogs welcome on the riverside path; slippery rock near the falls.
