Papasidero
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Latest page update: 18 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Papasidero
Accommodation in the area around Papasidero is limited to small B&Bs, agriturismi, and family-run residences. For more established hotels, visitors generally look to towns in the surrounding province of Cosenza, where larger properties offer wider facilities and services.
Grand Hotel San Michele (Cetraro, approx. 35 kilometres) is a long-standing property with panoramic views, its own private beach, and facilities such as a golf course and swimming pool (€€€). Hotel Sea Palace (Fuscaldo, approx. 45 kilometres) offers modern comforts with direct access to the seafront and good feedback on service standards (€€). Italiana Hotels Cosenza (Cosenza, approx. 50 kilometres) provides a reliable city base with well-equipped rooms, a restaurant, and convenient access to the historic centre (€€).
Grand Hotel San Michele (Cetraro, approx. 35 kilometres) is a long-standing property with panoramic views, its own private beach, and facilities such as a golf course and swimming pool (€€€). Hotel Sea Palace (Fuscaldo, approx. 45 kilometres) offers modern comforts with direct access to the seafront and good feedback on service standards (€€). Italiana Hotels Cosenza (Cosenza, approx. 50 kilometres) provides a reliable city base with well-equipped rooms, a restaurant, and convenient access to the historic centre (€€).
Where is
Where is Papasidero?
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The hill town of Papasidero lies in the Province of Cosenza, within the Calabria region of southern Italy. It is situated approximately 114 kilometres north-west of Cosenza, the provincial capital.
The nearest train station is located in Scalea, about 20 kilometres away, and the closest international airport is Lamezia Terme Airport, approximately 111 kilometres distant. |
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Comune di Papasidero
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Province: Cosenza
Region: Calabria Population: 604 (in 2024 - source) Size: 55 km² Elevation: 208 metres Close by: Scalea, San Nicola Arcella, Santa Domenica Talao Recommended accommodation: B&B Lao |
What People Ask About Papasidero, Calabria
Is Papasidero worth visiting?
How do I get to Papasidero?
What are the main attractions in Papasidero?
When is the best time to visit Papasidero?
How long should I stay in Papasidero?
Related links
Discover
Discover Papasidero
Papasidero is a mountain village in the province of Cosenza, set within the Pollino National Park in northern Calabria. Perched above the River Lao, it occupies a scenic position surrounded by forested hills and deep valleys carved through limestone rock. The settlement retains its traditional character, with narrow stone streets and old houses clustered on a slope overlooking the river below.
A short distance from the centre lies the Grotta del Romito, an archaeological site containing prehistoric rock engravings and evidence of human settlement dating back thousands of years. In the village itself, the Church of Santa Maria di Constantinopoli and the remains of a medieval fortress highlight its historical depth. The surrounding area is popular for outdoor activities such as rafting and trekking along the Lao valley. Close to Mormanno, Orsomarso, and Scalea, Papasidero forms part of the cultural and natural heart of the Pollino Mountains.
A short distance from the centre lies the Grotta del Romito, an archaeological site containing prehistoric rock engravings and evidence of human settlement dating back thousands of years. In the village itself, the Church of Santa Maria di Constantinopoli and the remains of a medieval fortress highlight its historical depth. The surrounding area is popular for outdoor activities such as rafting and trekking along the Lao valley. Close to Mormanno, Orsomarso, and Scalea, Papasidero forms part of the cultural and natural heart of the Pollino Mountains.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Papasidero
- Centro Storico di Papasidero is nestled in the Pollino National Park, its streets weaving through stone houses, narrow alleys, and small piazzas. The village offers views of wooded hills and the Lao River valley below. Small squares reveal ancient fountains and shaded benches. Walking here provides a chance to experience a community where history and nature coexist closely.
- Abbazia del Tempa, near Papasidero, is a historic abbey set in a dramatic gorge carved by the Lao River. The site combines religious significance with stunning natural surroundings. Visitors can explore its ancient ruins and enjoy views of the river and cliffs. It remains an important cultural and natural landmark.
- Lao River Gorge offers a spectacular natural attraction close to Papasidero, with hiking trails following the river through towering cliffs and lush vegetation. The area is popular for walking, swimming in natural pools, and admiring the landscape. It’s a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the region.
- Piazza San Giovanni serves as Papasidero’s social centre, bordered by traditional houses, cafés, and local shops. The square hosts festivals and community events celebrating regional culture. Its cobblestones and mountain views create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to experience village life and customs.
- Guided cultural and nature tours in Papasidero lead visitors through historic streets, abbey grounds, and nearby natural parks. Local guides share stories of ancient traditions, religious heritage, and mountain ecology. Tours often include tastings of local cheeses, wines, and Calabrian dishes. Exploring reveals Papasidero’s rich blend of history and natural beauty.
Tours and Activities
Papasidero Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Papasidero Photo Gallery
Travel
While Papasidero is not as well-known as some of Italy's larger destinations, it is accessible and well worth the journey. The nearest major airport is Lamezia Terme International Airport, which serves as a gateway to Calabria.
From there, you can rent a car and embark on a scenic drive through the rugged terrain of the region. Alternatively, you can take a train to nearby stations and then arrange for local transportation to Papasidero.
From there, you can rent a car and embark on a scenic drive through the rugged terrain of the region. Alternatively, you can take a train to nearby stations and then arrange for local transportation to Papasidero.
Calabria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Calabria
1. Tropea
2. Pizzo
3. Scilla
4. Sila National Park
5. Le Castella
6. Capo Vaticano
7. Pentedattilo
8. Santa Severina
9. Riace Bronzes
10. Altomonte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Calabria
1. Tropea
2. Pizzo
3. Scilla
4. Sila National Park
5. Le Castella
6. Capo Vaticano
7. Pentedattilo
8. Santa Severina
9. Riace Bronzes
10. Altomonte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Calabria
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Papasidero
By Rail: Papasidero does not have its own train station, but the nearest one is in Scalea, about 25 kilometres away, on the Salerno–Reggio Calabria line operated by Trenitalia. Regional and intercity trains connect Scalea to Paola in roughly 40 minutes and to Reggio Calabria in about 2 hours. From Scalea, taxis and local bus services provide connections to Papasidero.
By Road: Papasidero is located in the Pollino National Park area of northern Calabria, around 45 kilometres northwest of Cosenza. The drive takes approximately 1 hour via the SS19 and SP263. From Scalea, the journey covers about 25 kilometres and takes around 35 minutes via the SS504 and SP9. The town is reached through winding mountain roads, with parking available near the historic centre and along the access roads leading to the Lao River area.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Papasidero is located in the Pollino National Park area of northern Calabria, around 45 kilometres northwest of Cosenza. The drive takes approximately 1 hour via the SS19 and SP263. From Scalea, the journey covers about 25 kilometres and takes around 35 minutes via the SS504 and SP9. The town is reached through winding mountain roads, with parking available near the historic centre and along the access roads leading to the Lao River area.
Nearest International Airports:
- Lamezia Terme International Airport: Situated about 130 kilometres south of Papasidero, with a drive of around 2 hours via the A2 motorway and SS283. This is the most convenient airport, offering a range of domestic and international flights.
- Naples–Capodichino International Airport: Located roughly 230 kilometres northwest, taking about 3 hours and 15 minutes by car via the A2 motorway. It offers extensive national and European connections.
- Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Approximately 260 kilometres northeast, with a journey time of around 3 hours and 45 minutes via the SS106 and SS7. It provides a wide range of flight options within Italy and abroad.
Private Transfers
Papasidero Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel to or from Papasidero, offering a direct journey without the need to drive or organise public transport. You’ll be met by a professional local driver and taken straight to your destination in comfort.
Lamezia Terme International Airport is the most practical choice for arrivals and departures, easily reached by road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Mormanno, Scalea, and Orsomarso, or to other towns and natural areas within the Pollino National Park and along the Tyrrhenian Coast.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Lamezia Terme International Airport is the most practical choice for arrivals and departures, easily reached by road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Mormanno, Scalea, and Orsomarso, or to other towns and natural areas within the Pollino National Park and along the Tyrrhenian Coast.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
