Calabria
The mysterious and wild landscape of Calabria
Categories: Calabria Italy
Calabria - Italy's southernmost region inspires with natural beauty and dream beaches
The mysterious and wild landscape of Calabria is one of the most suggestive destinations, but it is not yet fully developed for tourism. Along Italy's boot-tip, the coast stretches for 780 kilometres, surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west, and the Ionian Sea to the south and east.
© LianeM / Fotolia
The Strait of Messina separates Calabria from Sicily. Those who like nature and originality will find mountains, lakes, forests and waterfalls in the interior. Enchanting coastal towns impress with crystal-clear water and fine sandy beaches, which are only interrupted by rugged rocks. Calabria has a population of around two million. In the south of the region is the capital Catanzaro, which was built on three hills in the 10th century. Worth seeing are the cathedral and the Norman tower, as well as the magnificent garden of Villa Trieste. Fascinating is the view Belvedere on the Gulf of Squillace.
Calabria offers an impressive view of the volcanic island Stromboli, which belongs to the Aeolian Islands. Charming is the sunset at the Costa degli Dei, the coast of the gods. The landscape around Capo Vaticano is one of the most beautiful coasts in the world. A boat trip here is worthwhile for snorkeling in Calabria. The picturesque little town of Tropea impresses with its winding alleys and idyllic places.
The grotto church Chiesetta di Piedigrotta in Pizzo is one of the world's unique sights. Especially in the evening light it radiates something magical. Calabria is considered a region rich in history and testimonies of earlier cultures. The Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Staufers and Spaniards already lived here. In Capo Colonna the archaeological park Roccelletta di Borgia allows a journey back in time to the culture of Magna Graecia.
In addition to the wealth of cultural treasures and natural beauty, Calabria is known far beyond the borders of the country for its culinary delights. Here the ice cream speciality Tartufo di Pizzo was created. In rustic mountain villages the holidaymakers can expect a typical cuisine consisting of fish, meat, game and mushrooms. The sweet-tasting red onion from Tropea is a frequently used ingredient in Calabria, which is often combined with local vegetables.
Red wine - like the strong Cirò - is produced in the province of Crotone. The rare citrus fruit bergamot grows in Reggio Calabria. The city of Diamante celebrates an annual festival in honour of the pepper Peperoncino. In Calabria numerous processions are held in honour of Mary. Thus, pilgrims flock to Aspromonte at the beginning of September for the festival of Madonna di Polsi. With lively dances the Calabrese celebrate exuberantly in times of carnival.
The north in mountainous Calabria is dominated by the massif of Monte Pollino, at 2,267 metres the highest mountain in the region. In the Pollino National Park, sports enthusiasts take part in rafting and kayaking. An insider tip is the Sila mountain range with the possibility of winter sports. The area around Aspromonte, on the southernmost foothills of the Apennines, is considered a unique hiking area. Calabria is a true paradise for bathers.
© mRGB / Fotolia
To the extensive beaches and secluded bays is added the charm of southern Italy. The towns of Vibo Valentia, Capo Vaticano and Tropea, as well as the Isola di Capo Rizzuto are ideal for a beach holiday. The mild climate in sunny Calabria promises a longer bathing season from spring to autumn. The water temperatures reach average values between 16 and 20 degrees. Best time to travel is from May to October.
