Calabria, in South Western Italy, is situated at the toe of the boot of Italy. It boasts a sun-baked landscape with rugged mountains and over 500 miles of dramatic coastline, typical villages, 3 national parks and turquoise blue sea.
The capital is Catanzaro and an ideal place to base yourself as it is centrally situated. The largest city is Reggio Calabria. If you wish to be closer to the sea there is Tropea on the east coast or Soverato on the west. If you want somewhere pretty but not quite as busy try Pizzo Calabro, which is close to Tropea. English is not as widely spoken as in some other regions of Italy so be aware of that if you are thinking of staying further inland at one of the sleepier villages which will have a more local feel.
Whilst the coast is stunning, inland in Calabria is dotted with streams and waterfalls, make a visit to the Serre San Bruno in the Serre National Park and you won’t be disappointed.
Whilst the coast is stunning, inland in Calabria is dotted with streams and waterfalls, make a visit to the Serre San Bruno in the Serre National Park and you won’t be disappointed.
Calabria can be hot and crowded in August and towards the end of July. The best months to visit are May, June, September and October where the pace of life is more relaxed. Remember that due to the heat many shops close from 1 pm to 4 pm so an afternoon rest is a must!
Calabria’s unofficial symbol is the red chili pepper or ‘peperoncino’. If you are sensitive to chili make sure you read the menu as it is in many recipes and often teamed with tomatoes. There is a Peperonico festival in September in Diamante. Anchovies, tuna, swordfish and red onions are all native to the area and delicious! Do try the red onion and marmalade ice cream. Tropea’s red onions are known throughout Italy and are a protected food.
For sure you will want to try some local wine and Savuto superiore is one of the best known. It is cultivated on the slopes of the Savuto river valley south east of Cosenza and known as the best mountain red of the region. If you like dessert wine then try the honey-coloured Greco di Bianco which is produced on the east side of the toe of Italy in the remote town of Bianco. Word has it that the method of production remains the same as it has been since ancient Greek times over 2.500 years ago!
The international airport of the region is Lamezia Terme. For extra connections sometimes you may want to consider flying to Milan and taking an internal flight. There are another 2 local airports: Reggio Calabria and Sant’Anna. We would advise hiring a car when you arrive at the airport to make the most of your trip.
Property in the area is of great value and prices can start at around 65.000€. Pretty towns such as Tropea, Pizzo, Parghelia, Capo Vaticano and Zambrone are all popular with a choice of apartments with sea views at excellent prices and even small houses just a short distance inland. Apartments by the sea make a great investment for rental and using of course as a holiday or 2nd home. If you are looking for a villa close to the sea you will be surprised by the choice. Whatever type of property you prefer try Calabria and keep away from the maddening crowds.
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