Local information

 
Calabria is an Italian Region whose natural beauties and historical sites are worth a visit. Every fascinating adventure in this land, positioned in the heart of the Mediterranean, starts from the sea, along variegated kilometres of coastline. The Coast of the Gods (Costa degli Dei, in Italian) is certainly the most renowned and scenic stretch. It is approximately 55 km long, from Pizzo to Nicotera, and defines the so-called Calabrian Horn on the Tyrrhenian Sea. White sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, multi-coloured marine depths, impressive cliffs, picturesque bays and coves characterize this area. Pizzo, Tropea and Capo Vaticano of Ricadi are likely the three most precious jewels of the Coast of the Gods.
Coming from the north, Pizzo is the first town of the Coast. Specifically, it is an ancient seafaring village and lies along the slopes of a promontory overlooking the Gulf of St. Euphemia. The alleys of its historical centre interlace themselves in a suggestive labyrinth of ups and downs; the squares represent real terraces by the sea. Castle Murat, symbol of the town, is positioned at the end of the main square, i.e., Piazza della Repubblica. This square is a permanent hub of activity throughout the day and has an awesome panoramic viewpoint (“U Spunduni”, in local dialect). The beaches of Pizzo (La Marinella, La Seggiola, La Marina, etc.) are renowned. Another popular destination for tourists and occasional visitors is a little church set into a cave on the seafront, just outside of the historical centre. This attraction, named Chiesetta di Piedigrotta, is commonly on the itinerary for tours of Calabria.
Just 30 kilometres south of Pizzo, there is Tropea. It is the busiest town of the Coast of the Gods and is defined “the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea” for its beauty. Its historical centre, with numerous small restaurants, shops of artisans and elegant palaces, is charming. In addition, it presents several breath-taking panoramic viewpoints. For instance, a terrace in Largo Migliarese offers an amazing top view of the church of St. Mary of the Island, especially at sunset. The image of this church has become a real tourist icon for the entire Calabria. Tropea is also fitted with modern bathing facilities offering every comfort. Its beaches are numerous and lovely.
The majestic promontory of Capo Vaticano, few kilometres south of Tropea, is part of another surprising town of the Coast of the Gods: Ricadi. A lighthouse with a cylindrical tower stands on the promontory and deserves a visit. The surrounding area offers several panoramic viewpoints from which the beautiful underlying beaches and the Aeolian Islands can be admired. The most attractive bay is Grotticelle, formed by three adjacent beaches. However, every place of this piece of the Coast of the Gods has a special charm.

Gastronomy is a further good reason for visiting Calabria in general and the Coast of the Gods in particular. The chilli pepper is the king among Calabrian typical products. Calabrian people generally use much more chilli pepper than the rest of Italian people. Local chillies in various shapes, colours and sizes are available. A typical spicy Calabrian product is a spreadable sausage called ‘nduja. Spilinga (near Ricadi) is the most important producer. The agricultural sector is also well-known. It includes the delicious red onion of Tropea. Its reputation around Italy and the world is due to the sweet taste; in addition, it is easily digestible. Pizzo is renowned for the ice-cream dessert “tartufo” (Italian word for truffle). The name derives from its uneven round shape and colour (cocoa powder) that make this ice cream, in its traditional version, very similar to a black truffle. Of course, the best specialties of the Coast of the Gods are based on fish. For instance, Pizzo is also known for the tuna fishery.

Many other places in Calabria are worth a visit. More information is available here.