A valley on the eastern side of Cervati Mount, in the heart of the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park. A mountain meadow, usually populated by herds of horses and free cows, on which golden eagles often twirl. A green expanse thriveing with life that, from April, is tinged with all shades of pink, purple, white and blue.
In the grass, orchids bloom everywhere. Elegant, coloured, precious. Not less than the more famous tropical sisters. This way, spring reveals the secret of the Orchids Valley, between the Unesco World Heritage Site, which is also marked by the presence of a spontaneous grove of white birches, very rare in the Southern Apennine.
Over 254 wild orchids varieties living in the Mediterranean area, 184 are concentrated in the valley dedicated to them, in the territory of Sassano. There in April, the magic of blooming begins and continues until June, even if some species continue their sumptuous exhibition in July. To enjoy it to the fullest, you can follow an itinerary of thirteen kilometers, rising from 500 to 1175 meters and offers twelve rest stops during the excursions, accompanied by nature guides enhancing the particularity of the place. In May, the Spring Festival (Festa della Primavera) takes place, with walks, tastings of typical products and folkloric shows linked to tradition.
The starting point is a square in the centre of Sassano, close to a stone fountain with characteristic masks. Continuing uphill to the church of San Michele, then you reach the historic bridge of Peglio, which contributes as well to the charm of the path, and you get to the Campo di Gravola, followed by the five orchid stations not to be missed, before continuing to Campi di Filano and concluding the experience at the so-called Piscina del Brigante (Brigante's Pool), and then return to the hamlet of Vallo di Diano. There, you can visit the Ecomuseum of ancient crops, with an important documentation on the botanical heritage of the national Park and fresh samples of orchids and other species contributing to the extraordinary biodiversity of Valle di Diano and Cilento.
