The best traffic-free bike rides around Laurino

The Sanctuary of Madonna della Neve (or Madonna del Cervato) is a striking place of worship located at about 1850 meters above sea level on Monte Cervati, in the Cilento National Park, near Sanza. Characterized by a chapel nestled in a natural cave, it is a destination for pilgrimages, especially between late July and August 5th, and represents one of the highest and most fascinating peaks in Campania.

The Sanctuary of the Madonna della Neve (or Madonna del Cervato) is a suggestive place of worship located at about 1850 meters above sea level on Mount Cervati, in the Cilento National Park, near Sanza. Characterized by a chapel nestled in a natural cave, it is a destination for pilgrimages, especially between the end of July and August 5th, and represents one of the highest and most fascinating peaks in Campania. https://blogcamminarenellastoria.wordpress.com/2022/12/14/il-monte-cervati-e-la-madonna-della-neve/

Spectacular passage through the mountains

A brief explanation of the patronage of 'MARY OF THE SNOW', which visitors don't encounter very often: This takes us far back in church history to the fourth/fifth century, and geographically to Rome. On August 5, 363, the so-called "miracle of the snow" occurred at the site where the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore now stands. That is to say, on that day, in the middle of summer, snow lay there in the morning because the Virgin Mary wished to have a church dedicated to her built on that spot. She conveyed this wish in a vision to a wealthy couple – who subsequently initiated and financed the construction – and to the Bishop of Rome, who at that time was Pope Liberius. The Roman church holds the rank of a patriarchal basilica (papal basilica) and is the origin of all churches and chapels with this patronage. In the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church, August 5th, the feast day of the church's consecration (in the year 432 by Pope Sixtus III), is an optional memorial. Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome was the focus of international attention last year because Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday 2025, had chosen this church as his final resting place.

Starting point for climbing Monte Puglie. Parking for 2-3 cars is available. Monte Puglie (sometimes called Cocuzzo delle Puglie) is a peak approximately 1,465-1,475 meters high located in Campania, within the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park. Known for its wild nature and expansive views, it can be reached via challenging hiking trails, often starting from Passo della Sentinella (San Rufo) or San Paolo di Teggiano, passing through places such as Sella del Corticato and the Bosco Vetusto del Cozzo del Rosieddo. Here are the main details about Monte Puglie: Location and Characteristics: It is located in the province of Salerno. The relief features elongated ridges and, in some areas, beech forests. Hiking: The trails are generally considered difficult or for experts, with steep and sometimes exposed sections. A common route is the ring that touches the Cozzo del Rosieddo (1427 m) and Monte Puglie.

Magliano Vetere is a stone village nestled in the heart of Cilento, overlooking the Alento Valley and surrounded by chestnut and oak forests. Its quiet streets lead to the Paleontological Museum, which recounts the geological history of the area with fossil finds and ancient evidence of Cilento's fauna. From the village, sweeping views open up over the Calore Gorges and the ridges rising toward Magliano Nuovo.

The Preta Perciata Pass is an ancient mountain pass that connected the Calore Valley with the Alento Valley. In the past, visitors passed through a fascinating tunnel carved into the rock, giving rise to the name "preta perciata," meaning "perforated stone." Today, the pass offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Cilento mountains and the ridges surrounding Magliano Nuovo, which it dominates from above.

Stio is a medieval village nestled in the greenery of Cilento, with stone alleys, small courtyards, and terraces overlooking the Alento Valley. Strolling through its streets, you'll discover the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, ancient rural homes, and glimpses that tell the story of the area's agricultural history. It's the ideal starting point for exploring woods, mills, and nature trails, and for sampling traditional dishes such as ciccimmaretati and the Fagiolo della Regina di Gorga.