In a fast-paced world, finding the right balance between body and mind has become essential to living a long and healthy life. The itinerary dedicated to Thermal Wellness and the Mediterranean Diet represents a unique experience that combines the therapeutic benefits of thermal waters with the healthy properties of one of the most popular diets in the world. This regenerating path, which winds between the slopes of the Picentini Mountains and the Sele Valley, is an invitation to discover the combination of health and tradition, relaxation and conscious eating.
The Mediterranean diet, recognized as an Intangible Heritage of UNESCO, is not only a food tradition, but a lifestyle that promotes longevity and well-being. Similarly, thermal treatments offer immediate relief both physically and mentally, allowing you to reduce stress, relieve muscle pain and improve circulation. In this itinerary, these two elements combine in a holistic experience, for total well-being.
The Main Stops of the Itinerary:
- Bagnoli Irpino
The journey begins in Bagnoli Irpino, a village rich in history and art. Here, between a visit to its architectural treasures, it is possible to taste typical products of excellence such as the Castagna di Montella PGI, the black truffle of Bagnoli, the pecorino cheese of Bagnoli and the traditional Iurmano bread. An immersion in the flavors of the local cuisine that enhances the principles of the Mediterranean diet.
- Materdomini and Caposele
A few steps from Bagnoli Irpino, there is Materdomini, home to the famous Sanctuary of San Gerardo. Here begins the cycle path that, from the sources of the Sele, extends to Santa Maria di Leuca, in Puglia. In this corner of Campania, you can taste delicacies such as Amaretti di nocciole and Mufletto, a fragrant peasant bread.
- Villa d’Ayala Valva
Continuing, you arrive in Valva, where you can visit the splendid Villa d’Ayala. An enchanted place, among sculptures, caves and gardens, where you can relax immersed in artistic and natural beauty.
- Senerchia and the Oasi della Caccia
The ghost town of Senerchia fascinates with its medieval ruins, dominated by the remains of a castle. Not far away, the Oasi della Caccia offers spectacular scenery, where local trout are masterfully prepared and served in dishes that respect culinary traditions.
- Campagna and Contursi Terme
In the city of Campagna, the protagonist is extra virgin olive oil, together with local wines, cultivated by generations of wise farmers. Moving to Contursi Terme, visitors find a true wellness paradise, with seven spas that offer hot and cold sulphurous waters, ideal for therapeutic treatments and moments of total relaxation.
- Palomonte, San Gregorio Magno and Ricigliano
These villages along the stretch that connects Palomonte to Ricigliano are full of agritourisms that offer typical dishes of the local tradition, prepared with fresh and genuine ingredients. A cuisine that enhances the flavors of Campania, in perfect harmony with the principles of the Mediterranean diet.
- Romagnano al Monte
One of the most evocative places on this itinerary is the ghost town of Romagnano al Monte, abandoned after the 1980 earthquake. Here, nature has taken over the traces left by man, creating a unique and fascinating landscape.
- Buccino and the Archaeological Park of Volcei
In Buccino, the ancient Volcei, there is an urban archaeological park that develops entirely in the historic center of the village. An unmissable stop for lovers of history and ancient culture.
- Caggiano, Auletta and Sicignano degli Alburni
These villages are famous for their high-quality agricultural products, including the white artichoke of Basso Tanagro, pecorino cheese, salted ricotta and caciocavallo podolico. These products represent the richness of the Mediterranean diet, based on local, fresh and organic ingredients.
- Postiglione and the Parco delle Sorgenti
In Postiglione, you can admire the castle and taste the famous Controne beans, cooked with extra virgin olive oil and served in the Parco Turistico delle Sorgenti, an equipped river park, perfectly integrated into the natural landscape along the Calore Salernitano river.
- Castelcivita Caves
The spectacular Castelcivita Caves are another jewel of this itinerary. With their network of tunnels, corridors and underground lakes, these karst caves offer a fascinating experience for those who love to explore natural wonders.
- Sant’Angelo a Fasanella and Corleto Monforte
In the village of Sant'Angelo a Fasanella, the historic mountain center integrates perfectly with the Naturalistic Museum of Corleto Monforte, offering an immersive break between nature and culture.
- Roscigno Vecchia
One of the most fascinating places on the itinerary is Roscigno Vecchia, a village abandoned at the beginning of the twentieth century and now an evocative open-air museum. Here, time seems to have stopped, creating a unique atmosphere.
- Bellosguardo and Roccadaspide
The village of Bellosguardo is famous for its traditional dishes such as scazzatielli (orecchiette), bucatini ammollicati and viccio, a ring-shaped bread. In Roccadaspide, the majestic Filomarino Castle, dating back to the 15th century, dominates the landscape.
The Thermal Wellness and Mediterranean Diet itinerary is much more than a simple tourist trip. It is a sensory and regenerating experience that blends the healing power of thermal waters with the genuine flavors of the Mediterranean diet, all enriched by a discovery of the historical, cultural and natural beauties of Campania. Perfect for those who want to take a break from the daily chaos and rediscover a sense of balance and well-being.