A walk among the Giants of the Sila

The I Giganti della Sila nature reserve, also known as the Fallistro nature reserve, is a protected natural area recognized by the FAI since 2016, located in the province of Cosenza. The name of the reserve is linked to the presence of centuries-old larch pines, which reach majestic heights, even 45 meters, and for this reason they are called giants. The pines have been included in the protected area because they are the last remnant of the ancient Sila forest. Some of these have been in the same spot for around 350 years. Among all the pines, one stands out, number 25, which is 43.60 meters high and weighs about thirty tons. The reserve can be covered in about thirty minutes, and is open every day from May to October. Its birth dates back to 1987, and is incorporated in the Sila National Park. The path is well defined with wooden bridges and each pine is indicated with a plaque. It is therefore a very particular and suggestive tourist attraction, suitable for both adults and children. The reserve is located in the municipality of Spezzano della Sila, a small urban agglomeration where you can taste the typical dishes of the tradition and get to know the truest Calabria.