Calabria, the extreme south of Italy, is one of those destinations close to us that everyone should visit once in their life due to the range of natural beauties and the charming scenery of traditional architecture.
It is at the end of the Apennine peninsula that true Italian charm is revealed. The mountainous landscape, interrupted every now and then by lower hills, ends with a beautiful coast that plunges into the Tyrrhenian Sea. The charming scenery is a feast for the eyes, so it is no wonder that the ancient Greeks gave this region the title "Magna Grecia". Calabria has seen the rise and fall of civilizations, which strongly marked the local landscape and inhabitants. Persistent and loving Calabrians have stubbornly preserved their customs and traditions, whether in culture, language and customs. That's why sometimes visiting Calabria feels like traveling back in time. Calabrian cities are open-air museums, full of exceptional artistic and cultural value. Picturesque medieval towns, which wrap around castles, nowadays upgrade their offer with varied cuisine and a rich wine tradition.
When to Calabria?
Calabria has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. If you like heat and sun, then visit it in the summer between June and August. The hottest month is July, with an average daily maximum temperature of 30°C.
Photo: Unsplash/Francesco LiottiWhat should I see in Calabria?
A mountainous landscape with a rich ancient Greek past, embraced by the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas, fascinates with its rock sculptures and dreamy bays. A relatively unknown destination among tourists, it is considered a diamond in the rough, which will undoubtedly experience its moments of fame in the coming years. Until then, it is worth a visit. Take a walk along the romantic rocky coast and dive into one of the pebbly bays.
It is one of the most picturesque bathing places in Calabria Tropea, a medieval city built on a steep rocky cliff. The center of the city is represented by the Norman cathedral and a series of old palaces, which make the city center even more charming. Because of the clear blue of the sea and the beautiful beaches, Tropea reminds many of the beautiful Maldives, and it must be admitted that the comparison is appropriate. But if you're looking for a place for romance, nothing beats it Pizza. It lies on a steep rocky outcrop above the coast, and its sweet life is also reflected in its famous "Tartuffo" ice cream, which originates from here.
Photo: Unsplash/Rainhard WiesingerIt is also worth stopping in the small town of Stilo, the city of the famous philosopher Tommaso Campanella, which successfully defies time. It boasts a perfectly preserved city center, but don't miss the Byzantine settlement of Cattolica di Stilo. If history tempts you, stop at the Scolacium archaeological park, which preserves the remains of a Roman city with parts of roads, aqueducts, mausoleums, a theater and an amphitheater. The mentioned park is a picture of an ancient Greek colony on the Apennine peninsula and is one of the most important ancient remains. The theater, built in the first century, rests on the natural slope of the hill and could accommodate around 5,000 spectators.
At the entrance to the park is the ruined abbey church of Santa Maria della Roccella, built by order of the Normans in the 11th century, which at one time also served as a fortress, so it is still called "castle". The Aragonese fortress of Le Castella is located in the municipality of Isola di Capo Rizzuto (Crotone) and belongs to the most famous monuments of Calabria. Connected to the mainland by only a small strip of land, the fortress is what remains of an ancient fort. Fascinating Calabria offers not only ancient monuments and sunny and pristine beaches, but also spectacular nature reserves. He is among them nature park Sila, which includes the provinces of Catanzaro, Cosenza and Crotone, as well as the Monte Pollino National Park, which extends over the territory of Calabria. Its main attractions are the Gole del Raganello, Valle del Fiume Lao and Valle del Fiume Argentino, and the national pearl is perfect for a range of sports, from rafting, mountain biking and mountaineering.
Photo: Unsplash/Margot PandoneHow to explore Calabria?
One of the most convenient ways to travel around Italy is without a doubt the train, and Calabria is no different. With its help, you will move between the major cities in the region (Cosenza, Reggio Calabria, Catanzaro, Crotone, Paola, etc.). Italian railways have a rather complicated online ticketing system for many, but it pays to get your tickets in advance, otherwise you may end up without one.
How much is a plane ticket to Calabria?
With the Ryanair airline, you can fly from Benekt to Lamezia from 64 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Massimo VirgilioCovid-19 restrictions in Italy
Italy abolished all conditions for entering the country in the summer. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Calabria
Masseria Agriturismo Torre Di Albidona
Agriturismo Torre Di Albidona is a farm tourism where you can buy a wide variety of organic produce, and you can also spend the night here. It boasts its own restaurant based on local cuisine and a lush green garden full of citrus fruits and local growth. A private beach is located a kilometer away.
Il Mandorlo
Il Mandorlo is located a short drive from Amantea Beach and features an outdoor swimming pool. There is also a bar and a restaurant if you happen to get hungry. All living units are equipped with a veranda, air conditioning and a TV. In the mornings, you are served an Italian or gluten-free breakfast.
