Serra del Prete, At 2,181 m, it is the third highest mountain in the Pollino Massif, winning bronze behind Mount Pollino (2,248 m) and Serra Dolcedorme (2,267 m).
It is situated in the southern Apennines, on the border between Lucania and Calabria, precisely between the municipalities of Viggianello and Morano Calabro.
The avalanche
Following an avalanche in 1990, another occurred twenty years later – in February 2010 – causing clearly visible damage on the north-eastern slope.
Damage captured by satellite imagery showing a trail approximately 500 metres long and up to 25 metres wide.
Fortunately, no people were involved in this incident, as there are no footpaths along the path of the tree’s fall. All the trees in its path, however, were flattened. For example, a beech forest which, in fact, is partly privately owned.
A number of political decisions have wisely authorised the recovery of the timber swept away by the avalanche, whilst also permitting the use of bulldozers within the park to restore the old forest track.
In its wake, every tree was flattened, but no incidents involving hikers were reported, as there were no footpaths along its path.
Itineraries and excursions
Serra del Prete is part of a lovely network of routes to follow for some wonderful days’ trekking!
Photo by Maurizio D. – Own work
