Today, we will proceed with our series of narratives on Pollino Park, an isolated treasure trove abundant in nature, historical sites, culinary pleasures, and exceptional hospitality. Positioned as the largest protected region in Italy, this park is nestled amidst towering peaks where nature and humanity have coexisted harmoniously for centuries. In 2015, Pollino Park became part of the esteemed European and global geopark network supported by UNESCO. Despite remaining relatively undiscovered by many tourists, the park is fully prepared to receive visitors, providing a luxurious escape with unspoiled surroundings, serenity, awe-inspiring views, delicious food, outstanding service, and a treasure trove of cultural and historical riches. Our adventure now takes us to Lavender Park. As you approach this enchanting location, you will be greeted by stunning landscapes featuring flower-filled fields, haystacks, verdant mountains, cows grazing freely in meadows, and lakes with crystal-clear blue waters.
Loricanda, known as the local lavender of Pollino National Park, was conceived by the Rocco couple, the park's founders. They discovered a rare type of lavender growing in Pollino Park and in 2007, decided to establish a large park dedicated to producing cosmetic products and honey. Lavender Vera (L. Angustifolia) is a plant that naturally thrives across Pollino National Park, particularly in the Campotenese area, at altitudes ranging from 900 to 1700 meters above sea level. Interestingly, through conversations with the local community, they discovered from the region's centenarians that lavender harvesting used to be a primary source of income in the area.
After gathering wild seedlings, the couple aimed to preserve their original source and assign a name that would clearly represent the region and the exceptional qualities of this natural wonder. The eight seedlings used for selection were handpicked by the protagonists in Pollino Park, at an elevation ranging from 1600 to 1700 meters above sea level. These "mother plants" were meticulously chosen for their strength and resilience, and experts were entrusted with the cultivation and propagation of the original plants. Subsequently, three "progenitors" possessing the finest traits and optimal health conditions were identified: they are known as "Loricanda a", "Loricanda 3", and "Loricanda 4".
From these three ecotypes, new seedlings were obtained that, multiplied in vitro, retain all the genetic and sanitary characteristics. The name, also specially designed by the two creators, clearly reflects its origins in Pollinania: it is the fusion of two words, LORICATO and LAVANDA. The idea is precisely to place the origins geographically and to give a vision of its habitat. All people who know the loricati pines know that the only Italian station is located in the Pollino National Park and especially in the area of the Calabro Lucani Apennines. Loricanda was also chosen to understand the robustness of these plants, because living among loricati pines means living in extreme conditions, in fact loricati means armored (from the loricas of the ancient Romans).
The agricultural project Parco della Lavanda was chosen with the priority goal of protecting and developing the local area. The desire to spread knowledge about this plant as much as possible led to the creation of a lavender theme garden in Lavender Park. This is a kind of ”Botanical Garden" where you can see, observe, and learn to distinguish between different types of lavender.
Strolling through this area and discovering the different types of lavender is truly enchanting. The plants harmoniously complement each other, emitting strong, delightful scents and showcasing captivating color combinations. The passion and reverence that the park's creators and staff have for their work and enterprise are palpable. Every aspect is meticulously planned: you will be warmly welcomed, learn about the park's history and various lavender varieties, have the opportunity to capture stunning photos, including at designated spots, tour the laboratory where lavender essential oils and various cosmetic items are made. You will witness the care given to bees as they gather precious nectar for honey production. On one hectare, bees gather as much as 150 kg of honey. Bees play a crucial role in our ecosystems, not only by pollinating flowers and crops but also by aiding in the production of honey, a precious natural commodity. The abundance of bees in an ecosystem is closely tied to the well-being and variety of the plant life.
And then you can comfortably sit in hammocks and relax in the shade of the trees, enjoying the scent of lavender. Flowering usually lasts from June 20 to August 20...
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