Lucanian Dolomites: what to see and do

The Lucanian Dolomites are a group of sandstone pinnacles in the heart of Basilicata, between the Basento and Salandrella valleys, inside the Gallipoli Cognato and Piccole Dolomiti Lucane regional park. The name comes from their likeness to the Alpine Dolomites: walls and spires that change colour with the light.

The two villages

Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa are built into the rock, facing each other. Pietrapertosa is among the highest villages in Basilicata, with its castle and the Arabata quarter; Castelmezzano has steps carved into the stone and the Mother Church of Santa Maria dell’Olmo.

Things to do

• Flight of the Angel: a zip line between the two villages, hanging from a steel cable above the valley; book on the official website, open in the warmer months
• Path of the Seven Stones: about two kilometres on foot between the villages, with installations inspired by a novel of witches and legends
• Via ferrata: for experienced climbers with equipment, with exposed passages and a suspension bridge
• Gallipoli Cognato forest: woodland trails in the park, also suitable for families

The Maggio of Accettura

At the foot of the forest, in Accettura, one of the oldest tree festivals of southern Italy takes place: the Maggio, the “marriage” between a great tree from the woods and its crown, carried into the village and raised in the square. Dates and programme are on Ebas on the village page and in the events calendar.

Getting there and when to go

About 35 kilometres from Potenza along the Basento valley; a little over an hour from Matera. The best time is from spring to autumn; in winter the villages are quiet and often snowy.