March 18, 2021, 4:19 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Italy is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. Everyone knows the beauties of the “Bel Paese,” the “beautiful country.” Rome, the Eternal City, the canals of Venice, and Florence with its rich history are the most visited places, but Sardinia and Apulia are also becoming increasingly popular, as well as the Amalfi Coast in Campania and the beaches and islands of Sicily. However, the region our author Francesco Marino presents today is different and probably less known to many: his home, Calabria.
Many associate Calabria primarily with one thing: the Mafia, or as it is called here, the ‘Ndrangheta. Yet, the southernmost region of Italy, forming the “toe” of the boot-shaped peninsula, has so much to offer in terms of landscape and culture that travelers should definitely discover! Many are unaware that some of Italy’s most beautiful places are located in Calabria.
Olive and orange groves make the Calabrian landscape distinctive and unique. Calabria has more than 700 kilometers of coastline and lies between two seas: the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea. For nature lovers and beachgoers, it is a true paradise.
Calabria has a history spanning thousands of years, which has also shaped the traditions of this region. Numerous villages from the time of “Magna Graecia” are located in the Calabrian hinterland, and these, with their fortresses and surrounding landscapes, are so picturesque that they are among Calabria’s most beautiful sights: Gerace, Santa Severina, Altomonte, and Pizzo Calabro are just a few examples.
TRAVELBOOK shows which places in Calabria you absolutely must see.
Overview
Tropea and Capo Vaticano
The coasts and beaches along the Tyrrhenian Sea are breathtaking. Tropea and Capo Vaticano are two of the main attractions in this region. Tropea is one of the most popular seaside resorts in Calabria and is ideal for those who love sandy beaches. The coast here features fine white sand and high cliffs washed by azure clear seawater. The town was built on a sandstone cliff and has about 7,000 inhabitants.
Capo Vaticano is a cape on a rocky cliff at the end of the Tropea peninsula, known as the Costa degli Dei (translated: Coast of the Gods). The seawater is crystal clear and varies in all shades of blue. The landscape is a true paradise, with wild nature encompassing the entire coast. Divers and snorkelers will also find a diverse underwater world here. According to the French magazine “Les Grands Voyageurs,” Capo Vaticano is the third most beautiful beach in Italy and one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world.
Also interesting: Tropea in Calabria – a paradise in Mafia land
Diamante
Another of the most beautiful places in Calabria is the charming seaside resort of Diamante, also known as the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea” due to its beauty. Diamante has an eight-kilometer-long fine sandy beach with crystal-clear sea, in front of which rises the island of Cirella. The area is also known for its chili peppers, called Peperoncini here. For 25 years, a festival has been held every summer in honor of the spicy peppers—a great fun! The murals (it.: Murales) that characterize the village are also worth seeing.
Also interesting: The most beautiful beaches in Italy
Le Castella (Isola Capo Rizzuto)
On the Ionian coast, Isola Capo Rizzuto is one of the most noteworthy places. A true gem is the district of Le Castella with its Aragonese castle, built into the sea and standing just a few meters from the beach. The origin of the name of this place is tied to the fortress, which dates back to the era of Greater Greece.
The beaches are just a few meters from the ancient structure, making every swim in the sea a unique experience. Tip: Enjoy an aperitif at sunset with a view of the illuminated fortress (see large photo above).
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Sila
In addition to the aforementioned villages from the time of “Magna Graecia,” the hinterland has even more to offer: Even mountain lovers will be surprised by the beauty of the Calabrian mountains. The Sila mountain landscape, which rises to almost 2,000 meters and covers about 1,500 square kilometers, is characterized by numerous rivers and lakes and is perfect for hiking and trekking tours. Many protected animal species live in the Sila National Park, including Apennine wolves, which you might be lucky enough to spot in the wild.
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The Perfect Road Trip Through Italy
Why Calabria Is Worth Visiting Even in Winter
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When is the Best Time to Visit Calabria?
Calabria is a region with a distinctly Mediterranean climate, predominantly influenced by the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas. The weather is mostly sunny with pleasant temperatures, even in winter.
Spring and fall are characterized by short rainy periods, but temperatures rarely drop below 46 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures are usually at least 59 degrees, and the sun shines, making spring and fall particularly suitable for visiting the region.
Summer, on the other hand, is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures rising above 86 degrees. Those looking for a beach vacation should travel to Calabria in the warmer months. But be careful: Especially in August, when all Italians take their annual vacation around the Ferragosto holiday, it can get very crowded!
By Francesco Marino