Catanzaro and its province offer a Calabria to be discovered, far from the usual tourist routes, where every corner tells a story made of traditions, nature, and authenticity. The city, with its castle overlooking the valley, is a blend of the past and present, with streets winding up and down among hills and breathtaking views. Here, the sea and the mountains meet, creating a landscape that changes every day, from the light of dawn to the sunset that sets the sky ablaze. The province of Catanzaro is a kaleidoscope of wild landscapes, from the golden beaches of Soverato, perfect for a relaxing break, to the high peaks of Aspromonte, where the silence is broken only by the wind caressing the ancient trees. Each village has its own character: Serra San Bruno, with its mystical atmosphere and the monastery overlooking the mountains, is the ideal retreat for those seeking peace and spirituality. The small villages of the area are treasure troves of traditions, with folk festivals that bring ancient customs to life and a cuisine that tastes of history, with dishes like 'nduja and fresh fish reflecting the generosity of this land. Catanzaro is not a city that reveals itself quickly, but it invites you to stop, to walk without hurry, to discover its hidden corners, and to breathe in its essence. It is a place that blends the breath of the sea with the freshness of the mountains, the intense flavors of its cuisine with the intensity of a sky that changes every hour of the day. A corner of Calabria that gets under your skin and, when you leave, never really lets you go.
Places to visit
Squillace Lido
Squillace Lido, a hidden gem of the Ionian coast, is a corner of Calabria that enchants with its crystal-clear sea, golden beaches, and a tranquility that seems suspended in time. The village, nestled between the sand and the hill, offers a natural spectacle that perfectly blends with the slow pace of local life. It is not just a seaside destination, but a place where the past, with its archaeological ruins, meets the present in a harmonious dance. The sea of Squillace Lido is its main attraction: transparent waters that fade into a thousand shades of blue, an irresistible invitation to relax and serenity. But beyond its coastline, the area is rich in history, with nearby Squillace boasting a Norman castle and remnants from ancient times. The local culture is reflected in the gastronomic traditions, with dishes based on fresh fish and the famous "caciocavallo silano," telling the deep connection between this land and its sea. Squillace Lido is a place that is in no rush, where time seems to pass more slowly. It is perfect for those seeking a break from daily stress, but also for those wanting to immerse themselves in Calabrian culture and traditions. Here, every sunset is an event, with the sky turning orange above the sea, an invitation to stop and enjoy the beauty that, in Squillace Lido, is always within reach.
Marina di Catanzaro
Marina di Catanzaro is a location that blends the charm of the sea with the vibrancy of the city, a corner of Calabria that offers a perfect balance between tranquility and activity. Its long golden sandy beach faces crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal retreat for those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, while also becoming a lively meeting point during the summer months, when the sea and coast take center stage. The Marina, with its seafront stretching along the coast, is an area that knows how to welcome visitors, offering modern facilities, seaside bars, and restaurants where fresh fish is the main attraction. The beauty of the area is enhanced by the presence of the port, whose modern architecture blends perfectly with the surrounding natural landscape. The contrast between the blue sea and the green hills behind provides unique views, perfect for those who love immersing themselves in the beauty of the landscape. In addition to its stunning coastline, Marina di Catanzaro is also a place rich in history and traditions. Its proximity to the city center offers the opportunity to explore the cultural roots of the city, while the summer festivals, which involve the local community, provide moments of authentic conviviality and joy. The cuisine of Marina di Catanzaro, with its deep connection to the sea, offers typical dishes such as freshly caught fish, pasta with sardines, and Mediterranean flavors that speak of both land and sea. Marina di Catanzaro is a destination that adapts to the pace of its visitors: a place where one can relax under the sun, take a stroll along the beach, or enjoy the lively summer atmosphere. It is a corner of Calabria that not only fascinates with its beauty but also wins over visitors with its warmth and its ability to offer moments of serenity and leisure.
Stalettì
Stalettì, a small gem hidden among the hills of the Ionian coast, is a corner of Calabria that captivates with its rustic and authentic charm. Nestled in the green mountains, the village offers breathtaking views of the sea and a vista stretching across the entire Catanzaro coastline. Its discreet beauty is not only found in the landscape but also in its peaceful spirit, far from mass tourism, where time seems to move more slowly and every corner exudes history and traditions. The streets of Stalettì weave between stone houses and narrow alleys, where the silence is broken only by the song of birds and the sound of the wind rustling through the olive trees. The village is an ideal starting point for exploring the natural beauty of the area, from the mountain trails that climb the hills to the nearby beaches of Copanello and Pietragrande. Here, the sea blends with the mountains, creating a landscape that changes with the rhythm of the seasons. Stalettì is also a place rich in gastronomic traditions, where local dishes tell the story of simple yet flavorful cuisine. Among the local specialties, the cheeses, olive oil, and fresh fish stand out, full of the tastes of the sea and land. Every celebration, every encounter with its inhabitants, is an opportunity to discover the true soul of this small village. In Stalettì, every day is an invitation to slow down, to live the present with intensity. It is a place where nature and culture merge in perfect harmony, offering authentic emotions to those who are ready to listen.
Badolato Marina
Badolato Marina, a hidden gem on the Ionian coast, is a place that embodies the tranquility and authentic beauty of Calabria. This small locality, facing crystal-clear waters and surrounded by lush hills, is the perfect retreat for those seeking a break from the hectic pace of life, while still enjoying the beauty and hospitality typical of the region. Its golden sandy beach gently stretches towards the sea, offering breathtaking views and an atmosphere of calm that feels timeless. Badolato Marina is a peaceful corner where the sea and nature blend harmoniously. Its proximity to the village of Badolato, an ancient medieval town just a few kilometers away, adds a touch of history and culture to the landscape. Local traditions, rooted in rural and maritime life, are alive in every corner: from the cuisine, which features typical dishes such as fresh fish and Calabrian specialties, to the events that animate the area during the summer, always linked to a sense of authenticity and simplicity. Beyond its beach, Badolato Marina is an ideal starting point to explore the surroundings, where the mountains of Aspromonte serve as a backdrop to a landscape that continuously changes. The tranquility of the area is only interrupted by the sound of waves crashing on the shore and the song of birds, offering an experience of pure relaxation. Badolato Marina is the perfect place for those looking for a destination far from mass tourism, where the connection with nature and the simplicity of local life are at the heart of the experience. It’s a place that knows how to welcome, where every moment spent between the sea and land offers feelings of peace and serenity, a corner of Calabria that stays in the heart of those who discover it.
Caminia
Caminia, a charming corner of the Ionian coast, is a destination that embodies the wild and authentic beauty of Calabria. Hidden between cliffs and crystal-clear waters, this small hamlet of Stalettì stands out for its breathtaking natural landscape, with its golden sandy beach gently blending with the turquoise sea. Its charm lies not only in the sea but also in the tranquil atmosphere that pervades the place, far from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist destinations. The houses of Caminia lie on the hillside, offering a spectacular view of the coast, while the village retains a rustic simplicity that reflects Calabrian tradition. The coastline, with its crystal-clear waters and small hidden coves, is a paradise for those seeking relaxation and a direct connection with nature. Here, the sea is an invitation to stay: whether it's a refreshing swim or a walk along the beach, every moment spent in Caminia is a discovery. But Caminia is not just about the sea. The village is the ideal starting point for exploring the surroundings, with its trails climbing the surrounding hills, offering unique panoramic views. The local cuisine, simple and flavorful, tells the story of the meeting between sea and land, with dishes made from fresh fish and genuine ingredients like olive oil and traditional cheeses. Caminia is a place where time seems to stop, where every corner is filled with peace and natural beauty. Perfect for those seeking an authentic escape, this destination invites you to discover the truest Calabria, one that fascinates with its slow pace, simplicity, and energy, capable of rejuvenating both body and mind.
Soverato
Soverato, the "pearl of the Ionian", is one of the most charming locations on the Calabrian coast, a place that blends natural beauty with the vibrancy of a city that knows how to welcome visitors. With its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Soverato is a true paradise for those seeking relaxation and sun, but also for those who want to experience the lively atmosphere of a beach town without sacrificing tranquility. Its long coastline, bathed in turquoise waters, is perfect for refreshing swims and long sunset walks, in an environment that exudes peace and beauty. The promenade in Soverato is the heart of the city, a gathering spot for both locals and tourists, where cafes, restaurants, and gelaterias overlook the sea, offering typical Calabrian dishes made with fresh fish and local ingredients. The atmosphere is lively but never chaotic, with a variety of events and festivals that light up the summer evenings, making the city the perfect mix of serenity and fun. Soverato is not just about the sea: the historic village, with its narrow streets and warm-colored houses, tells the story of an authentic Calabria, filled with traditions, culture, and a strong identity. Its churches, small shops, and welcoming squares offer a glimpse of daily life, while the surrounding hills, with their Mediterranean vegetation, invite walks and excursions to discover breathtaking views. The cuisine of Soverato, simple yet rich in intense flavors, is another of its strengths: among the typical dishes, you’ll find pasta with sardines, marinated anchovies, and specialties with chili, all reflecting the strength of this land. Soverato is a place where every corner, from the sea to the mountains, invites you to discover the true essence of Calabria, made of beauty, hospitality, and tradition.
The most beautiful beaches
Caminia
Montauro
Crotone
Stalettì
Soverato
Sellia Marina
