Italy, celebrated for its pasta, pizza, and la dolce vita, boasts an array of iconic destinations from Florence's art to Rome's history. Yet, one of its most breathtaking spots lies in the often-overlooked southern region of Calabria.
The Undiscovered Beauty of Calabria
Positioned on the toe of Italy's boot, Calabria is the country's poorest region but arguably its most beautiful. Its coastline is fringed with azure blue waters and golden sandy beaches, dotted with unspoilt villages and towns. Inland, a traditional way of life prevails, centred around churches and monasteries.
The stunning town of Tropea, recently voted Italy's prettiest, and the quaint fishing village of Scilla offer a uniquely authentic Italian experience. The regional capital, Reggio Calabria, is a major draw, located just miles from Sicily across the impressive Strait of Messina.
Walking the 'Prettiest Kilometre' in Italy
The city's crown jewel is the Lungomare Falcomatà, a seafront promenade hailed as the prettiest kilometre in the entire country. On a clear day, it offers spectacular views of the sea, the Strait of Messina—where the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas meet—Sicily, and the mighty Mount Etna.
The promenade is adorned with elegant buildings and remarkable sculptures, both man-made and natural. Among the most striking features are the huge magnolia trees that stand proudly along the street. The city is also home to the renowned Riace Bronzes, life-size statues over 2,500 years old, housed in the National Archaeological Museum.
The Unfortunate Downpour
However, a visit in early October revealed one significant problem: it was absolutely chucking it down. The torrential rain severely hampered the experience. The breathtaking views of Mount Etna were completely obscured, and the coast of Sicily was only a murky outline.
While some inclement weather is expected during an autumn visit, it was disappointing not to see this beautiful city in all its glory. The inability to fully enjoy the legendary walk along the Lungomare Falcomatà was a particular letdown.
This soggy experience, however, provides the perfect excuse for a return trip to the stunning region of Calabria. For those inspired to visit, Great Rail Journeys offers an all-inclusive holiday to Calabria, starting at £1,349.
