Pantano di Policoro, Metaponto
Places
Park·Easy·Relaxing·Popular

Pantano di Policoro, Metaponto

Basilicata

The Bosco Pantano di Policoro near Metaponto is the last old-growth alder and poplar forest on the entire Italian Ionian coast — a WWF reserve of 1,100 ha. Loggerhead turtle nests on the beach (one of the most important nesting beaches in Italy). The Magna Graecia ruins of Herakleia are within the reserve boundary. Otter is confirmed on the Sinni river through the forest.

Duration
2.5 hours
Distance
5 km
Elevation
+5 m
Best season
May – September

Highlights

  • Last old-growth alder forest on the entire Ionian coast
  • Loggerhead turtle nesting — one of Italy's most important sites
  • Otter confirmed on the Sinni river

With your dog

Coastal reserve; dogs on leash.