Christmas in the Pollino National Park: Snowshoeing and Arbëreshë Villages

4.9 of 5 stars
4.9
299,00per person
Duration

3 days

Intensity
Bassa
Type

Individual

Nº guests

min. 2

Tours
1
Experiences
2

Description

Christmas in the Pollino National Park

The Pollino National Park is one of the most fascinating natural areas in Italy — a place where the charm of the mountains meets the authenticity of Basilicata.
With the Christmas and Tradition package, you can enjoy a unique experience among the villages of the Pollino, ancient customs, and snow-covered landscapes.
During Christmas in the Pollino National Park, nature dresses in silence and magic: walking through forests, lights, and the scent of wood becomes a way to rediscover the true spirit of the holidays.


San Paolo Albanese: The Arbëreshë Village of Pollino

In the heart of the Pollino National Park, between the Pollino Mountains and the Lucanian highlands, lies San Paolo Albanese, a small village of Arbëreshë origin.
In this tiny village of just 203 inhabitants, every corner tells a story and every encounter feels genuine: the family atmosphere and the warm hospitality of the locals make San Paolo Albanese a place where one can truly experience the essence of the Pollino.
Here, the Christmas Eve Dinner and the Christmas Lunch celebrate the most authentic Lucanian cuisine, with traditional dishes and local products that tell the story of the territory.


Excursions and Traditions in the Heart of Pollino

Christmas Day will be dedicated to nature and experience: a snowshoe hike on the Pollino or a panoramic excursion will take you through forests and breathtaking landscapes.
In the afternoon, a craft workshop offers the opportunity to discover traditional handcrafting techniques and the customs passed down through generations.
The package also includes a visit to the Arbëreshë Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of this community that makes the Pollino National Park a truly unique place in Basilicata.


Christmas Holidays in the Mountains: Culture and Relaxation

Christmas holidays in the Pollino National Park are an opportunity to combine nature, culture, and conviviality.
Staying in San Paolo Albanese means experiencing an authentic Christmas, far from mass tourism, surrounded by Lucanian traditions, typical cuisine, and unspoiled landscapes.
An experience that combines the spirituality of Christmas with the beauty of the protected nature of Pollino — perfect for those who seek to rediscover time, harmony, and silence.

Available from 24 December 2025 to 26 December 2025

Location

San Paolo Albanese

Highlights

  • Christmas Eve Dinner with traditional Lucanian dishes at La Peonia Pellegrina
  • Outdoor excursion or snowshoeing in the Pollino Park
  • Artisan workshop exploring Arbëreshë culture
  • Guided visit to the Museum of Albanian Culture in San Paolo Albanese
  • Stay surrounded by nature, traditions, and authenticity in the heart of Pollino

Included

  • 2 nights in Bed & Breakfast La Casetta di Rosella – San Paolo Albanese; ; .
  • Full board treatment (lunches and dinners at Campeggio Montano La Peonia Pellegrina).
  • Christmas Eve Dinner with traditional Lucanian dishes
  • Packed Christmas lunch during the outdoor excursion
  • Nature hike or snowshoeing in the Pollino National Park
  • Traditional craft workshop
  • Entrance and guided visit to the Museum of Albanian Culture
  • No items found

Not included

  • Transfers to and between destinations (available on request)
  • Air or train tickets
  • Extra drinks, tips, and personal expenses
  • Tourist tax to be paid locally.
  • Transfer non inclusi

Extra options

Children 0–3 years
Free stay for children (0–2 years old) sleeping in parents’ bed. Cribs available upon request.
0per children
Children 4–10 years
15% discount on the package price.
per children

Program

Christmas Eve – Arrival and Dinner in the Heart of Pollino

Arrival in San Paolo Albanese, in the heart of the Pollino National Park, and accommodation in an apartment. The evening begins with the Christmas Eve Dinner at Campeggio Montano La Peonia Pellegrina, where the aromas of Lucanian cuisine and the warm, family atmosphere make for a unique start to the Christmas stay. A moment of conviviality and tradition that prepares guests for the authentic experiences of the following day.

Christmas in Pollino – Nature and Artisan Traditions

After breakfast, departure for the outdoor excursion: a nature trail through forests and breathtaking landscapes, with the possibility of snowshoeing inside the Pollino National Park, depending on weather conditions. Lunch will be a packed meal, in perfect mountain style, allowing you to fully enjoy the unspoiled nature. In the afternoon, the highlight will be a local craft workshop, where participants can discover ancient manual techniques and create small traditional objects. Return to the accommodation, dinner, and overnight stay.

St. Stephen’s Day – Culture and Farewell from Pollino

After breakfast, enjoy a guided visit to the Museum of Albanian Culture, dedicated to the history and traditions of the Arbëreshë communities. An inspiring journey through costumes, tools, images, and testimonies that tell the story of centuries of identity and connection with the land. The day ends with a farewell lunch at La Peonia Pellegrina, followed by check-out.

Useful information

• Until 8 days before arrival FREE cancellation
• From 7 days before arrival 30% of the total amount will be retained
• From 3 days before arrival or in case of NO-SHOW 100% of the total amount will be retained
• For multi-day packages, in case of early departure, payment of the total package will be requested.

On request

• 15% discount on massages and additional wellness packages.
• Extra nights: Standard B&B room €50.00 per person per night.

Frequently asked questions

Is the package suitable for families with children?

Yes, the experience is designed for all ages. The outdoor trails are of moderate difficulty, and the artisan activities also involve children.

Is special equipment required for snowshoeing?

Thermal clothing and trekking shoes are recommended. Snowshoes can be provided on-site, depending on availability.

What happens if there’s no snow?

In the absence of snow, the snowshoe hike will be replaced by a guided excursion in the Pollino National Park, maintaining the planned outdoor experience.

Are there alternatives for those with food intolerances?

Yes, the restaurant La Peonia Pellegrina offers customized menus upon request for intolerances or special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.).

Is the Museum of Albanian Culture open all year round?

Yes, the museum is open year-round and hosts permanent exhibitions on Arbëreshë history and traditions of the San Paolo Albanese community.

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Contact and information

+39 0835 334 543

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