WWF oasis in Morigerati
The WWF oasis Grotte del Bussento in Morigerati is a splendid protected area since 1995 that extends for about 600 hectares within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, the main geopark on the European list of Geoparks. The Morigerati oasis has always been a must-see destination for nature lovers.
In the gorges of the Bussento river, mosses and ferns, willows and alders, holm oaks, downy oaks, ash trees and hornbeams grow alongside the Mediterranean scrub. Otters, trout, crayfish and river crabs, porcupines and wild cats inhabit this protected area, while birds of prey such as kestrels, goshawks, kites and ravens keep watch over it from above, flying over the forest. This is why the entire oasis is a site of special land preservation and biodiversity.
You can visit the WWF Oasis walking along one of the easy Cilento nature trails that leads from the centre of the village of Morigerati to the Cave where the Bussento karstic river returns to the surface after a stretch in the bowels of the earth. It is precisely the karstic phenomena that are the real peculiarity of the Morigerati protected area.
The Bussento river, which springs from the Cervati mountain, near Caselle in Pittari sinks and follows its mysterious journey underground to reappear a good 7 km further south just below the town of Morigerati.
Among springs and small waterfalls, one reaches an ancient mill dating back to the 18th century that was used by the local inhabitants to grind the wheat cultivated in this area. It is no coincidence that the Bussento area is famous for wheat, so much so that in the summer period it is possible to watch and participate in the Palo del Grano (Wheat Race) held in Caselle in Pittari in July.
The WWF oasis of Morigerati offers one of the most beautiful and attractive natural spectacles in the Cilento Park. The entire area for its extraordinary scenic and natural beauty deserves an extended stop. The oasis is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and we recommend a visit during the Spring months even though it is perfect during the summer months as a refuge from the summer heat typical of the Cilento coast.
If you want to visit this naturalistic area and are looking for a B&B in Palinuro where you can sleep, the Residence and B&B Villamirella is the ideal place. Choose from different types of accommodation. From double rooms to 3-bedroom flats, you will be spoilt for choice at the residence with swimming pool in Palinuro.