Molise is the last undiscovered region in Italy. The region is wild and untouched and just amazing to explore.

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That is a bold statement to make about Molise, Italy, but that’s according to Wikipedia.

Undiscovered in general is difficult to find in Europe. It’s one of the things I miss most about being in Canada. There, it’s not uncommon to spend an entire day in the mountains without seeing another soul.

Where is Molise in Italy?

Molise is a quiet and untouched region in Italy that offers you solitude. Whether you are soul-searching or just need peace away from the craziness that is out of everyday lives, Molise offers all of this.

With one of the lowest population densities in all of Italy, solitude, wilderness, and heck even brown bears and wild boars await you! Don’t worry…they’re friendly….and only found in selected areas…or so I hear!

Related Reading: Cinque Terre & Beyond Hiking Tour in Italy

The provincial town of Molise is small and it is made up of many small towns that scatter the region. There are about 136 in total but only 106 are populated. The region’s economy survives on agriculture, with small farm holdings that produce high-quality products being the main activity.

Here you will find mountains, pastures, artisan shops, and small stretches of sandy beaches near the coastline. Italic temples, 13th-century castles like Castello D’Allessandro and Castello Svevo, olive groves, intriguing museum buildings, and ancient towns are also an attraction in this Italian region.

I think Molise is one of those perfect places in Italy to visit over the summer as it doesn’t become overcrowded. Their well-preserved cultural traditions, hilltop towns, and modern open-plan buildings are beyond impressive.

Traveling Around Molise

I traveled around Molise by train. Not just any train mind you, but a private train organized through Molise Discovery Leisure Train Tour (now called Kolidur Travel Club). SNAP!

OK I kid, it’s actually very affordable with a 50 – 70km train ride costing €45 adult. You will be serenaded by costumed folk singers and served local homemade delicacies and espresso in the tiny doll-size cups that Italians love so much!

It’s unlike any train ride I’ve ever been on. But without a doubt, the best part is what’s outside the train:

Train travel through Molise is a relaxing way to explore the countryside. — Train travel is a great way to explore Molise, especially when it’s a private train as we took!

Mountainous landscape seen from Montedimezzo Nature Reserve — Mountain views as seen from Montedimezzo Nature Reserve

Hiking trails in Montedimezzo Nature Reserve

Visit the gigantic tree in Montedimezzo Nature Reserve — Me standing in front of the gigantic tree see found in the Montedizmezzo Nature Reserve.

It’s not simply enough to just look at it though, you’ll want to experience it either by hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding.

Fortunately, these activities can be organized by Kolidur Travel Club who organizes day, weekend and seven-day tours. And did I mention the medieval villages? Or food? The food is to die for.

Related Reading: Perugia Italy: Why You Need To Vacation Here

Take a Road Trip Off The Beaten Path

Road tripping is one of the most popular ways to explore Italy and doing it through Molise is one of the most adventurous things that you could do. There are only 40km of motorway and 2 main roads that lead inland from the coast. Many of the mountain villages are hard to reach as there are only rural roads. But if you love adventure, this is the best part.

Recommended Reading: Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

The region has a multitude of old Roman ruins that you can discover on your way. The best part about this? There are no lines! You will meet locals and see how they go about their lives. Recently vineyards have cropped back up in the region and you can pass by them and stop for a taster. But don’t have too much if you are driving of course.

So pull out your old paper map and navigate this undiscovered region. Maybe get lost a little and take home an authentic Italian experience.

Live In Molise

Recently the Molise region has been shrinking in population making it Italy’s most underpopulated region. But they have come up with the most innovative solution. Pay people to live there. I am dead serious about this. There have been several calls from the locals asking people to come to settle down in Molise in order to help bring up the local economy.

They are willing to pay €700 per month for up to three years to anyone willing to relocate there. The only catch? You have to open a business. But even better, they’re willing to give you money to start a business. How great is this!

Accommodation in Molise, Italy

Hotel San Giorgio is located in Campobasso which is the capital of the region. This beautifully furnished 4-Star hotel is perfect for your stay in Modise. The hotel has an authentic Italian feel to it. You can enjoy some authentic cuisine at the hotel restaurant.

Dependance Ludovica is a bed & breakfast located in Termoli. This beautiful property has a great atmosphere with its stone walls and wooden flooring. It is located just a few minutes’ walk from the ferries which will take you to the Tremiti islands where you can explore more of the region.

Country house Casale Kolidur is located in Guardiaregia. The house offers spacious rooms that are furnished in a traditional style. You can spend time in the shared lounge or on the massive terrace where you can enjoy the garden. There is an onsite restaurant and some great cycling trails that are easily accessed from the property.

You’ll also find a great selection of VRBOs in the region.

Tours to Molise

Enjoy a wine tasting tour through Larino. The tour will take you to the vineyards that produce Tintilia, the local Molise wine. You will end your tour with a wholesome lunch of local cuisine paired with 6 different wines.

I’ve been fortunate enough to hike in the Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites and hike from Bologna to Florence and in the famed Cinque Terre, but only a bit in Molise and I can’t wait to do more.

Related Reading: How to Get to Cinque Terre

Are you ready to explore Molise, Italy’s last undiscovered region?

Disclosure: Thank you to Kolidur Travel Club for making my visit possible. As always, all opinions expressed are my own.

Molise: Italy’s Last Undiscovered Region