Explore Calabria with iitaly https://iitalycalabria.com/ The ultimate travel guide to the region of Calabria, Italy Sun, 09 Apr 2023 14:36:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://i0.wp.com/iitalycalabria.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/italy.-logo1.png?fit=32%2C16&ssl=1 Explore Calabria with iitaly https://iitalycalabria.com/ 32 32 199329160 Easter in Calabria https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/easter-in-calabria-badolato/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=easter-in-calabria https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/easter-in-calabria-badolato/#respond Sat, 08 Apr 2023 18:25:29 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=2835 Easter in Calabria: The Celebrations of Badolato If there is one thing I learned from my time living within the charming cobbled streets of a Calabrian village, it was this: The Calabresi sure do love a procession. Want an excuse to celebrate, dress up, fill the streets, and get out the full brass band? The […]

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Easter in Calabria: The Celebrations of Badolato

If there is one thing I learned from my time living within the charming cobbled streets of a Calabrian village, it was this: The Calabresi sure do love a procession.

Want an excuse to celebrate, dress up, fill the streets, and get out the full brass band? The locals are out in full force. These traditions have been passed down through centuries, and are often deeply connected with religion and the Catholic church. It will come as no surprise then that Easter is a big occasion on the calendar.

As with the food, dialects, and other customs in Calabria, the celebrations surrounding Easter are very particular to every single village. Many will have some sort of procession or re-enactment of the holy story, but there is no cookie-cutter approach that they all follow. So, if you’re looking to visit the region during this period, you’re best doing your research beforehand.

Planning your visit

Events will take place all over the Easter period, and the big day for many towns is Easter Friday. Some visitors are surprised to see – the tall and conical hooded figures in many of these processions may look reminiscent of the KKK! But the roots of these traditions actually come from the Spanish occupation of southern Italy in the post-medieval period, and you will see similarities in the Holy Week celebrations of Andalusia, Spain.

Visiting Calabria during the Easter period means a time of food, family and hospitality – the three things that Italians do best. So read on to discover some of the unique spectacles to enjoy.

Settimana Santa in Badolato

Badolato is a tiny village perched on the hillside in
Catanzaro’s province, and I would consider it my second home. I’d heard of the famous Easter celebrations for many years, and had the privilege of witnessing the celebrations in 2022.

On almost a daily basis during the Holy Week, you’ll awake to the sound of drums. The town hums with activity and anticipation.

Floats and statues are processed through the town to depict the full Easter story, accompanied by young and old, and even those in pushchairs. Participants don colourful blue, red and black capes of each village confraternity. These brotherhoods of Badolato mark neighbourhoods of the village and their churches, and each plays a role within the devotional celebrations.

It’s on Easter Saturday that these celebrations reach a crescendo. Over 200 people from Badolato join the parade which winds its way through the historical alleyways of the village. Starting at the beautiful Church of the Immacolata, the winding column of participants then takes 8 hours (yes, 8 hours!) to follow a carefully planned route around the village. Visiting every single one of the 14 churches, taking their time to stop and chant, sing and drum, the procession is a sight to behold. And that’s before we’ve even started on the costumes…

The conical white hats and crowns of thorns are worn by those who flog themselves with metal noisemakers. Cross-dressing Roman soldiers wearing flowery pantaloons symbolise the genderless angels. Hebrews are dressed head-to-toe in yellow, yelling and beating Jesus as he carries the cross. And playing Jesus or the other cross bearers must be the toughest job of them all. Arms roped to the wood, head swung forwards and a long wig covering their faces, they stumble through the town and up the hill. Now you know why the proceedings take 8 hours.

And if that wasn’t enough dedication… the participants are bare footed!

For a more leisurely experience of the parade for visitors, join a local guide who will take you to the key spots of the parade – helping you to discover the story and reach the best vantage points. And of course break for a drink and meal in the sunshine whilst the locals continue their (crazy!) rituals.

There is something else unique about the celebrations of Badolato. As a big blow-out for the end of lent, the festivities continue well into the evening. As if 8 hours of processions weren’t enough, celebrations will now last all night with an event described as ‘the procession of the cantinas’! 

Each medieval house within the village is on multiple stories, with the cellar (cantina) below for storing wine and produce. On this night, families open up their cellars and welcome locals and visitors alike to make their way from house to house, serving up wine, with tables laden with cheese and meats. Travel through the dark streets from one glowing cantina to the next, join for a chat, a dance, sing, and a few tunes on the guitar. Leave with a full belly after sampling the family’s wine, inevitably with a large handful of peas and beans to eat fresh from the pods. And then make your way to the next!

It’s an example of true Calabrian hospitality, and a chance to experience the true beating heart of the region. Don’t worry about language barriers – the people are welcoming, and proud to share their produce. It’s a unique experience to journey from a lively singing crowd to an intimate table of four smiling Calabrian uncles. And it’s the first time I’ve ever been served lasagne on bread. A slice of the dish balanced on a slither of bread makes it very easy to pass across the crowd to the person that’s just walked in the door! 

Easter Celebrations Across Calabria

Badolato’s events are a spectacle that I would highly recommend visiting if you are spending Easter in Calabria. But there are other unique events across the region to discover over the period.

If you’re prepared for some gore, Verbicaro (in the Pollino National Park, province of Cosenza) offers one of the few remaining examples of the shocking ritual of flagellation. The bloody pagan ritual dates back to 1473, stemming from the concept of penance over the Easter period. Within this historic town, the nighttime ritual takes place at midnight on Good Friday, and the ‘Battenti’ taking part beat their own legs as they move through the town – to the point of drawing blood. This is mixed with splashing of wine and the brutal scene leaves the streets stained with red. 

Due to the graphic nature of these photos, I won’t share on the blog, but a quick search of ‘Verbicaro Battenti’ will surface them if you’re interested!

Or for a more family-friendly affair, the processions of the Pupazze of Bova take place on Palm Sunday. Female shaped statues (depicting mothers and daughters) are woven from olive and palm branches, decorated with flowers, fruit and vegetables, and carried high above their heads as the people journey through the town.

Have you celebrated the Easter period in Italy? Do you have any local traditions similar to these? We’d love to hear your stories – comment below!

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/easter-in-calabria-badolato/feed/ 0 2835 16 Reasons Calabria should be your next Italian vacation destination https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/16-reasons-to-visit-calabria-italy-next-vacation/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=16-reasons-to-visit-calabria-italy-next-vacation https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/16-reasons-to-visit-calabria-italy-next-vacation/#respond Tue, 31 Jan 2023 23:10:42 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=2550 Why you should travel to Calabria 96 million international tourists visit Italy every single year, so it will be no surprise that the land of la dolce vita is high on many travellers’ planning lists for 2023. Tourists arrive in droves to discover the ancient relics of Rome, glittering coastal towns of the Amalfi, and […]

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Why you should travel to Calabria

96 million international tourists visit Italy every single year, so it will be no surprise that the land of la dolce vita is high on many travellers’ planning lists for 2023. Tourists arrive in droves to discover the ancient relics of Rome, glittering coastal towns of the Amalfi, and rolling vineyards of Tuscany.

But what about Calabria? As the toe to Italy’s heeled boot, it’s buried deep in the south – less than 2 miles over the water from the island of Sicily. It is little known to tourists, but has its own unique allure which means Calabria should be high on your bucket list for a trip in 2023.

1. Calabria’s beaches

At first glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the turquoise shores of Tropea were on a tropical and exotic continent, rather than here in Europe. With over 500 miles of coastline, Calabria has many beaches to choose from – from the sandy coves of the Coast of the Gods to the endless stretches of the Ionian coast, or the dramatic cliff formations of Arco Magno.

2. Italy’s least visited region

Italy is split into 20 unique regions, with a distance of over 900 miles between the north and south. So that’s a lot of Italy to explore. Calabria is one of the country’s most southern, covering an area of over 5,500 square miles, yet is the least visited by international tourists. In my books, that is exactly why any traveller with a love of Italian culture should visit. Step off the well-trodden trail and discover the real Italy of old.

3. Cucina povera

The key to the beauty of Calabria’s cuisine is often in its simplicity. Cucina povera in Italy (literally ‘the kitchen of the poor’), has led to some of the country’s most iconic dishes, with a frugal approach that maximises and savours every local ingredient. The methods originated from rural peasant populations and were born as a necessity, but to this day many of my favourite meals in Calabria have been the simplest. Try pasta con la mollica (pasta with breadcrumbs), or baccalà (salted cod).

4. The slow life

It sounds like a cliché, but if there’s one thing that the pandemic taught us, it’s the value in slowing down. Life may have returned to its frantic normality for many, but there’s no need to continue that with your vacations. Embrace the art of slow travel in Calabria. Forget racing around cities from one monument to another – instead adopt the art of the riposo and spend many an afternoon sauntering round tiny coastal villages and taking lazy lunches that stretch hours into the afternoon. Life in Calabria is simple, slow, and rural: the antidote so many of us need.

5. An eclectic history

Calabria sits as a peninsula that pokes out towards the centre of the Mediterranean, surrounded by the Ionian Sea on the east and the Tyrrhenian on the west. Over history this has led to the region having its fair share of invaders and settlers. It was once part of the Magna Grecia (Ancient Greece) empire, and you’ll also stumble on remnants of the Byzantine era, a Norman conquest, descendants of Albanian refugees, and even engravings from the Paleolithic times.

6. Its national parks

Calabria isn’t just all about the coastlines – it’s also home to three varied national parks. Starting in the north, the Pollino National Park is Italy’s largest, covering nearly 2,000 square kilometres. Green peaks dominate, with a terrain largely untouched, aside from mountaintop villages.

In contrast, Sila National Park offers a lush green plateau – think rolling green hills, dense forests and calm lakes. Then head to the deep south and the craggy mountains of the Aspromonte. Here is where Calabria feels its wildest – you can explore ghost towns of Roghudi and Pentedattilo, and soak up mountaintop views with the sea extending around three sides.

7. Add some spice

Hanging from doorways, growing in every garden, garnishing every table and spicing up your trip: in Calabria the chilli pepper is life. The warm climate and the need to preserve meats or flavour humble dishes led to the chilli pepper’s popularity, which has now become a symbol of the region.

Try la bomba – a jarred spicy pepper spread which pairs well with bread, tossed with pasta, or to garnish pretty much anything you like. And Calabria’s most famous export, the chilli infused ‘nduja sausage, has begun to grace our menus worldwide. But perhaps one of the best ways to enjoy this simple pleasure is straight off the plant and shaved onto your tomato-based pasta dish at the table. Seeds and all if you’re brave enough!

8. The hilltop villages

Seemingly defying the laws of gravity, many medieval villages of Calabria perch on hilltops and cascade down mountainsides, with a hotchpotch of red rooftops and what feels like a non-existence of planning laws. Each has its own culture, food, language and maze of alleyways to explore. Discover Badolato, Gerace and Stilo to the east, or Fiumefreddo Bruzio, Orsomarso and Amantea to the west.  

9. Traditions and customs

I’ve always said that Italians (and especially the Calabrians) love any excuse for a good old procession. All year round, the calendar is filled with events, celebrations of food and dishes, live music, parades and more. What’s more, every tiny community has its own way of doing things, with rituals passed down through generations – from Easter flagellations to flowers laid through the streets to the chilli pepper festival.

10. Mealtimes

You may be sensing a running theme here… but come to Calabria for the food. And more specifically, for mealtimes. It’s not uncommon to be sat around a table with upwards of 20 other people, table strewn with dishes and glasses of course flowing with wine. And that’s just a typical family Sunday afternoon.

Mealtimes are an occasion, and living in Calabria I quickly learned that the first question you’re asked is, ‘Have you eaten?’  Why bother asking, ‘How are you?’ when the question of the stomach is at stake.

11. Local produce

Shockingly, I’m back on the topic of food again. This time celebrating the local produce which the Calabrian’s are proud to grow, cultivate and produce. Whilst in Calabria, you’ll eat from the land. Sip wine as you overlook the vineyards, visit countryside restaurants for meals straight from the vegetable garden, savour olive oil from the surrounding hills and eat swordfish at you watch the ships of the Violet Coast that caught them. And Tropea’s red onion has to be the most famous of the lot, now exported worldwide.

12. These views

Every village seems to offer a spectacular viewpoint to beat the last. I won’t say any more than these photos – but check out my top 5 viewpoints in Calabria.

13. Language and culture

With Calabria’s history of invasions and reinvasions comes a melting pot of cultures – and you can still see those roots zealously preserved when you explore the region today. Delve deep into the Aspromonte mountains for villages that speak an ancient Greek dialect, or venture into the Pollino for Arbëreshë villages preserving Albanian culture.

And it’s no exaggeration to say that every single village in Calabria has its own version of dialect. Can you believe that historically, villages such as Badolato even had two – a different language spoken to the north and south of a winding main street.

14. Year-round possibilities

Of course, you may want to visit Calabria during the summer months, for the beaches, buzz and balmy days. But what’s so fantastic about its varied terrain is that each season offers another delight. Visit during Spring and Autumn for a calmer experience, and take advantage of slightly cooler temperatures for walking and exploring. The locals may have been wrapped up in their winter woollies, but I’ve happily paddled in the sea and laid on the beach in March!

Catch the wine harvest (late September) or October’s olive harvest, or head for a winter escape for ski slopes with views of the sea. Sila’s steam train is another delight in winter, crossing through snowy landscapes.

15. That water

Tropea’s beach just deserved a second mention…

16. The people

Come for the beaches, enjoy the food, and stay for the people. In Calabria, I’ve been invited off the street and into strangers’ homes many times, and obviously force fed whatever’s cooking up on the stove! In this southern corner of Italy, the people are friendly and their arms are open – they do hospitality like no one else. It’s the welcoming nature of the locals that started my own love story with the region. Find out more here.

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/16-reasons-to-visit-calabria-italy-next-vacation/feed/ 0 2550 The Top 5 Viewpoints in Calabria https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/top-5-viewpoints-calabria/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-top-5-viewpoints-in-calabria https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/top-5-viewpoints-calabria/#comments Sun, 20 Feb 2022 20:39:19 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=2356 The most spectacular views in Calabria If you needed any more convincing of Calabria’s beauty, look no further. Here is our round up of the most spectacular viewpoints from which to appreciate the region’s rugged mountains and turquoise ocean views. 1. CAPO VATICANO This viewpoint is on the clifftops of Capo Vaticano, along Calabria’s Costa […]

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The most spectacular views in Calabria

If you needed any more convincing of Calabria’s beauty, look no further. Here is our round up of the most spectacular viewpoints from which to appreciate the region’s rugged mountains and turquoise ocean views.

1. CAPO VATICANO

This viewpoint is on the clifftops of Capo Vaticano, along Calabria’s Costa degli Dei. Enjoy vistas out to Stromboli volcano, over the most beautiful blue waters you have ever seen. Look down towards the beach of Grotticelle and watch the shadows on the seabed of numerous boats and pedalos as swimmers enjoy the crystal clear waters.

2. GERACE

A town drenched in history, Gerace is perched on a 500 metre vertical rock, formed from sea fossils 60 million years ago. From the long viewpoint on the east side of the town, look over terracotta rooftops and out to the Ionian Sea.

3. MONTE SANT'ELIA, PALMI

A particularly spectacular place to enjoy the sunset, three illuminated white crosses mark this viewpoint above Palmi, located on the Costa Viola. Look out to Stromboli volcano at sea, and up the coast to Capo Vaticano as well as across to Sicily on a clear day.

4. FIUMEFREDDO BRUZIO

Your biggest struggle whilst visiting this hilltop town on the Tyrrhenian sea will be deciding which of the piazzas of Fiumefreddo Bruzio is your favourite viewpoint! Enjoy an ice cream and do as the locals do, leaning over the old walls to watch the world go by below.

5. BOVA SUPERIORE

Explore Calabria’s Greek heritage in the beautiful town of Bova in the Aspromonte mountains, and climb to the top of the Norman fortress to enjoy 360 degree vistas. It’s little-visited and certainly not on the main tourist trail, but in our eyes wins the crown of the best view in Calabria.

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/top-5-viewpoints-calabria/feed/ 1 2356 Bread Day in Zungri https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/bread-making-zungri/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=blog-bread-making-zungri https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/bread-making-zungri/#respond Thu, 30 Dec 2021 15:43:15 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=1032 Zungri – only a stone’s throw away from the popular town of Tropea – is the site of an ancient settlement from a bygone era. The ‘Grotte Rupestri Zungri’ are ancient cave dwellings, and walking through the rooms carved out of the rock, you’ll feel a prehistoric energy from one of the oldest sites in […]

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Zungri – only a stone’s throw away from the popular town of Tropea – is the site of an ancient settlement from a bygone era. The ‘Grotte Rupestri Zungri’ are ancient cave dwellings, and walking through the rooms carved out of the rock, you’ll feel a prehistoric energy from one of the oldest sites in Italy, never mind Calabria.

Yet it’s not the hidden gem of this historic wonder that is Zungri’s only highlight in our opinion. Here, don’t miss witnessing the delightful Zungri ‘Bread Day’. The association is one that epitomizes the heart and soul of the region of Calabria. In this peaceful spot of countryside, Franca Crudo heads an association of ‘nonnas’ (for want of a better term). These fantastic women – aged 60 to 90 years old – represent the traditions of cooking in Calabria, and host visitors to join in the ritual (and art) of breadmaking.

But this bread isn’t any old pane you’ll find in a modern-day bakery even in Calabria. Instead, you’ll stick to the roots and use a blend of ancient grains which grow in the Zungri area – and this bread will be like nothing you’ve ever tasted before. Join them in their outdoor kitchen for a full initiation with aprons and the traditional hats of Calabresi housewives of this area. But don’t think you’ll get away with just observing the ‘nonnas’ at work. Put your money where your mouth is and get kneading, pushing and punching the mixture to form the dough.

All the while, it’s enchanting to hear the stories and tales of your knowledgeable hosts. It’s up to you whether you trust all of the stories – if the old wives’ tales are to be believed, the yeast you’re using in the dough is older than the hosts themselves!

After all of that hard work, it’s the dough that needs to rest. But you’ll join your wizened hosts in preparing more traditional dishes, including the local fileja pasta, and of course sampling the local wine as you go. After two hours of rising, the loaves will go in the old stone ovens, and you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labour piping hot alongside your traditional Calabrese feast.

In a world full of technology, spending time with the bread women of Zungri is a chance to slow down and preserve the precious traditions. We can’t let them die out with their generation. Yet what clearly strikes me is that this clearly isn’t a show put on for tourists, where the local old women are ‘rolled out’ to appease the foreigners. It’s just a way for them to continue to practice and share the traditions of their ancestors, who would gather in this way and bake huge batches of over twenty loaves, firing up the fire oven with all of the extended family and friends. Join the ‘bread ladies’ to taste great local products and discover their secrets.

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/bread-making-zungri/feed/ 0 1032 The Best Beaches on La Costa degli Dei https://iitalycalabria.com/vibo-valentia-province/costa-degli-dei/best-beaches/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-beaches-costa-degli-dei https://iitalycalabria.com/vibo-valentia-province/costa-degli-dei/best-beaches/#respond Wed, 29 Dec 2021 23:12:49 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=819 The Costa degli Dei (Coast of the Gods) is arguably Calabria’s most famous – with the vibrant turquoise of the Tyrrhenian Sea, crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and seaside town gems such as Tropea and Pizzo. Located on the west (Tyrrhenian) coast of Calabria, the toe of Italy’s boot, you’d be forgiven for thinking […]

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The Costa degli Dei (Coast of the Gods) is arguably Calabria’s most famous – with the vibrant turquoise of the Tyrrhenian Sea, crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and seaside town gems such as Tropea and Pizzo. Located on the west (Tyrrhenian) coast of Calabria, the toe of Italy’s boot, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’d been transported to the Caribbean. It’s the breathtaking scenery of locations such as Capo Vaticano and the Santa Maria dell’Isola at Tropea which are beginning to help put Calabria on the map. Take our word for it – the name ‘Coast of the Gods’ is no exaggeration – and you need to visit this undiscovered gem of a coastline before the rest of the world cottons on.

This guide is for the beach lovers – the sun soakers, sea swimmers, cove explorers and lazy loungers. Read on to discover our insider guide to the full coastline and the most beautiful beaches on the Coast of the Gods, from the secret bays and quiet spots to those sweeping views that are its most iconic. Journey with us from north to south, from Pizzo to Nicotera.

PIZZO BEACH

Pizzo’s marina offers a small and charming beach, sheltered by the pier. Within walking distance of the historic centre itself, it’s a perfect spot for some sunshine if you’re staying within the town, and is also within easy reach of gelaterias and restaurants for refreshments from morning to night. The beach itself is small and doesn’t offer lido (sunbed and bar) facilities – you’ll want to bring your own towels and umbrella for shade – but even during the height of the summer months we always seem to find a small spot on the sand. The sand is fine and golden, and the water shallow for swimming.

Outside of Pizzo (both north and south), you’ll find stretches of beach and smaller bays constructed with rocks to protect the coastline. They’re not as picturesque as Pizzo marina itself, but offer golden sand, shallow waters and views back to the town, and can be a great choice if you’re looking for a little more space on the sand.

BRIATICO BEACH

Further down the coast you’ll find Briatico beach, in the fishing village of the same name. The shore varies here, and you’ll find both rocky spots as well as pebble and sand. There are a few beachfront hotel resorts here, but not much of a town to explore, with the only attraction a ruined watch tower on the beachfront. It’s a popular spot with snorkelers, with the water remaining shallow many metres out on a calm day.

ZAMBRONE BEACH

What we call the ‘secret’ beach at Zambrone, the beach of Paradiso del Sub, is in our opinion one of Calabria’s most beautiful. Only accessible by those in the know, this hidden paradise is a quiet bay with small sections of golden white sand and striking rock formations within the clearest water you’ll ever find. With no bar or refreshment services, you’ll have to pack up your essentials and carry them with you, but for those who are prepared it’s a spot you can’t miss. Only accessible by a winding hill path that crosses the field and down the cliff from Zambrone train station, you can then only reach the slightly larger stretch of sand by wading through the shallow waters. But it is worth it! We love visiting this beach outside of the main summer peak season, as many Italians are beach lovers and are prepared to walk to this treasure. In the shoulder seasons of May – June and September, we’ve had this beach to ourselves at certain points, and it really does live up to its ‘paradise’ name.
Also at Zambrone is a beautiful stretch of beach for those less inclined for the hillside trek. The long sandy stretch offers plenty of space, easy parking, beachside bars and refreshments, and sun loungers from the lido. Southern Italy can sometime have issues on its beaches and roadsides from littering, but this beach is always one that struck us as clean and a beautiful spot – with fine light pebbles striking the balance between comfort on the feet and keeping the water clear and blue.

PARGHELIA BEACH

Parghelia is just to the north of the famous town of Tropea, and offers two beaches for sun seekers to discover. Spiaggia Michelino beach is a little more remote and secluded – at least 300m down the steps from the parking area and without lido amenities – but offers extremely picturesque views, with bright blue waters surrounded by cliff formations. Here you’ll discover the transparent waters and golden sands that are iconic of the best beaches on the Costa degli Dei.

For a longer stretch of beach at Parghelia, that is more accessible from your car parking spots, is Spiaggia di Vardano. Located just outside of the town of Tropea, from here you have beautiful views of the town perched in the distance. A lot of this beach area is occupied by hotel resorts right on the seafront, but despite this there is still a decent amount of free public beach space. It can be a quieter option during the peak periods, as less visitors know about this spot. You’ll find golden sand rather than pebbled, and there are options to take out boats and water activities from the shoreline.

TROPEA BEACH

Tropea is the most iconic and famous place in Calabria – and some credit for that has to be due to its spectacular beach. Tropea beach is separated into two main sections, either side of the Santa Maria dell’Isola island with its iconic church. To the north of the isola, at Spiaggia Mare Piccolo, there is a large free section; here you can join the charming patchwork of coloured umbrellas and towels on the golden sands. To the far northern end of this beach, and also to the south of the isola, at Spiaggia a Linguata, you’ll find multiple options for lido facilities, including sun loungers, restaurants and bars on the sea front, as well as campsite facilities.

Swimming around Tropea beach is one of the best experiences in Calabria. The water is crystal clear, often almost as warm as bathwater, and gradually slopes down from the golden sands of the beach. With plenty of fish it’s a fantastic spot for snorkelling, kids will enjoy splashing around and jumping from the rocks, and if you swim all the way around the isola, you’ll find a small hidden beach in the cave, with a sandy spot to rest on.

Be aware that Tropea beach can get very busy during the height of the summer months. During August in particular, you’ll want to arrive early to find a good spot for your umbrella. On a busy day, we do like escaping to a tiny stretch of sand which is at Tropea port. If you walk along the outer edge of the port and scramble over the rocks, there is a thin stretch of sand – just enough for your towels and as a peaceful spot to enjoy the bright blue water and views of the town.

And of course, whilst you’re appreciating the beauty of Tropea beach, include a walk up the steps to the town to appreciate it from above. There are very few sights which beat the view down to the hotchpotch of coloured umbrellas, and people swimming in water that is completely crystal clear, with the shadow of the town’s roofscape casting down onto the sand.

SANTA DOMENICA DI RICADI BEACHES

The stretch of coastline between Tropea and Capo Vaticano is dedicated to beaches, with various spots to explore if you take the turnings from the road which joins the two. Here, you’ll find a combination of hotel resort private beaches, as well as areas of free public beach. Some of our favourite sites include Oasi Beach, Ricadi Beach, and Spiaggia Formicoli – all with golden sand and blue waters.

CAPO VATICANO & GROTTICELLE BEACH

The beaches around Capo Vaticano are some of the best in Calabria, if not Italy. The dramatic white cliffs of Capo Vaticano offer a spectacular backdrop, and it’s also one of the best places to go swimming and snorkelling. The tiny beaches nestled at the bottom of the cliffs themselves are only accessible via private land, but anyone can enjoy the spectacular location by taking one of the many boat excursions that travel along the coastline, or by visiting the nearby public Grotticelle beach.

The road access to Grotticelle beach is just south of the cape itself. You can drive right down the hillside and park near the beach, or find a parking spot along the road during the busy months. The beach stretches out to both the left and right, with a combination of free areas as well as private lidos with loungers and bars, but our favourite area is the furthest right section of the beach – around the rocky headland as far as you can go. From here, you can enjoy the white sandy beach in a smaller bay, with the clear blue waters that make the Costa degli Dei so famous, and also enjoy views of the spiky cliffs of Capo Vaticano themselves. You can enjoy the beach and relax, but also head out on the water for one of our favourite activities. The simple pedalo is the easiest way to explore the spectacular waters, and we love piling the family onto a rented pedalo for an hour or so and heading out straight from the beach. Snorkel and swim in the blue pools around the cape, spotting fish and marine life around the dramatic cliffs and private sandy beaches.

After a day on the beach, be sure to head up to the viewpoint at the Faro di Capo Vaticano (lighthouse) to catch the sunset. The Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria is absolutely spectacular for enjoying sunset views – and every single day is unique – yet the panorama from the top of the cliffs of Capo Vaticano have to be the most beautiful. The whole sky turns pink and orange, reflected in the turquoise sea and turning it almost lilac. Combine this with the white dramatic cliffs, an abundance of green from the prickly pears, and then the silhouettes of the Aeolian Islands on a clear day. The Coast of the Gods indeed.

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/vibo-valentia-province/costa-degli-dei/best-beaches/feed/ 0 819 What is ‘Nduja? https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/nduja-guide/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nduja-guide https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/nduja-guide/#respond Wed, 29 Dec 2021 22:35:36 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=784 ‘Nduja sausage is a famous food product of Calabria, in the south of Italy, that in recent years has become famous all over the world. It is a spreadable salume sausage product, used in a multitude of recipes and kitchens to add a meaty, fiery and smokey kick. Popping up on menus worldwide, popular in […]

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‘Nduja sausage is a famous food product of Calabria, in the south of Italy, that in recent years has become famous all over the world. It is a spreadable salume sausage product, used in a multitude of recipes and kitchens to add a meaty, fiery and smokey kick.

Popping up on menus worldwide, popular in America and the UK as well as across Europe, and famously providing the spice to the Calabrese pizza you’ll find in a multitude of pizza restaurant menus, the pronunciation of the word still perplexes many. Spelt ‘nduja yet pronounced en-DOO-ya, this soft salume is stirred into sauces, spread on bruschetta, popped on pizza, stuffed in pasta, and more. Ten years ago, you would likely have to smuggle a batch if you wanted to find the ingredient outside of Italy, but these days you can find it in Italian delis and also many supermarkets. You can usually buy it in two forms – either within a jar, or in the wrapped and hung salami form as it was produced. From here you can slice or spoon and use in your cooking.

‘Nduja comes specifically from the town of Spilinga, which is located in the region of Calabria (the ‘toe’ of Italy’s boot) and a region that is famous for its chilli peppers. The cuisine of Italy varies so drastically from region to region, with different pasta dishes and a huge variety of typical products used, and only in the south of Italy will you find a spicy addition to the popular cuisine. The small municipality of Spilinga is close to the famous town of Tropea, within the region of Vibo Valentia. Although the exact origins of the ‘nduja product is unknown, its production in the early years likely stems from a necessity of preserving food by the poor people of the region, by flavouring and curing.

WHAT IS ‘NDUJA SAUSAGE MADE OF?

The exact origins of ‘nduja di Spilinga are uncertain, but its creation did stem from the necessity of utilising the whole pork product. Historically, poor local farmers in Calabria would sell the most expensive cuts of meat to the wealthy, leaving them with the cheap cuts, trimmings, offal and excess fat. These scraps wouldn’t make much of a tasty meal on their own, but by combining with the Calabrian chilli, seasoning, mixing and curing, they produced a flavourful and usable meat product that could be stored for a long time, remaining spreadable even after aging for many months.

Modern recipes of ‘nduja vary from these historic ingredients, but the essence is the same – ground pork with a high fat content, salt, and a healthy portion of spicy chillies. Chilli peppers are famous in Calabria, and a large amount is used in ‘nduja – roughly 30% of the sausage’s total weight – lending the cured sausage its deep red hue and spicy sweet flavour. And it is the use of fatty cuts of pork meat which give the ‘nduja its signature consistency as a spreadable sausage; other salami products often use a ratio of 1:3 lean meat to fatty cuts, whereas the ‘nduja ratio is more like 3:1. Pieces such as jowl, belly, top of shoulder and the leg are ground to form the salumi, and it is this high fat content, and the addition of chillies to break down the meat, that makes the product remain spreadable even after months of curing, and means that it can be stored at room temperature without spoiling.

Traditionally, ‘nduja sausages are stuffed into a piece of intestine (but modern production sometimes uses other casing) and then hung to ferment in a warm chamber for up to 36 hours. The salumi (which can be up to 3kg in weight) are sometimes then smoked, and then are moved to a cool environment to cure for up to 7 months. 

WHAT DOES ‘NDUJA TASTE LIKE?

‘Nduja sausage of course has a meaty taste similar to other cured salamis, being a salted pork product. But the unique combination of seasonings and chilli peppers add a depth and complexity, with a smokey spice and deep umami. With the hot arid climate of Italy’s south, pork salamis are mixed and cured differently to the prosciutto often made in the north, and the high fat content creates a butter-like texture that makes a spicy meaty spread.

The flavour of ‘nduja lends itself to be enjoyed in a huge variety of ways – we love its versatility. The simplest way to enjoy the sausage is spread onto toasted bread and sampled as part of an antipasti spread. It’s also a fantastic ingredient to keep in your fridge and add to your cooking in many dishes – using a relatively small amount within sauces adds a richness and meaty depth of flavour. Ragu or tomato-based sauces go well with pasta and stews. Stick with the traditional recipes, and enjoy ‘nduja on pizzas, or you can find stuffed pastas such as ravioli or tortellini within supermarkets worldwide that contain the spicy ‘nduja kick. Stir it with mayonnaise (fantastic in burgers), scramble with your eggs, or use in your sandwiches – it pairs very well with melted cheese in a toastie! The sweet and smoky pork even pairs well with seafood, from mussels to crab cakes, or can be used for a flavoured butter that will elevate your roast chicken. In conclusion, ‘nduja can be used to elevate a huge variety of your meals, and we always keep a chunk of it in the kitchen!

IS ‘NDUJA SIMILAR TO CHORIZO?

Many people ask the question as to whether ‘nduja is the same as chorizo – as we’re all familiar with the spicy salami that originates from Spain. In some ways, the two products are similar, both being spicy preserved pork sausages. In terms of consistency though, ‘nduja is much softer and is always spreadable, and you cannot slice it like a chorizo.

The flavour between the two products is also different, with ‘nduja offering more of a fiery spice, whilst chorizo is drier due to the paprika. However the two do provide a smokey flavour to dishes, and chorizo could be used as a ‘nduja substitute within recipes in a pinch – we’d suggest dicing very finely and adding chilli oil as you cook to increase the moisture and dial up the heat.

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/blog/nduja-guide/feed/ 0 784 Tropea Red Onion https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/tropea-red-onion/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tropea-tropea-red-onion https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/tropea-red-onion/#respond Wed, 29 Dec 2021 22:08:41 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=761 TROPEA Travel Guide Likely the most famous onion of Italy, Tropea’s red onion (cipolla rossa di Tropea) is a common sight in Calabria – strung outside shops, adorning doorways and piled high on market stalls and produce trucks by the side of the road. The southern region of Calabria is surprisingly unknown to tourists, but […]

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TROPEA Travel Guide

Likely the most famous onion of Italy, Tropea’s red onion (cipolla rossa di Tropea) is a common sight in Calabria – strung outside shops, adorning doorways and piled high on market stalls and produce trucks by the side of the road. The southern region of Calabria is surprisingly unknown to tourists, but the Calabresi certainly know how to eat. Dishes are spicy with red chillies, tangy from bergamot, or sweet with the iconic red onion.

Tropea red onions are known for their sweetness – and their light flavour lends them perfectly to be eaten raw within salads. The locals say that a good Tropea red onion is so sweet you’d even be able to eat it like an apple! But this isn’t because they contain more sugar than a standard onion – the signature sweet taste is down to a reduced amount of pyruvic acid, which makes them less pungent. The natural sugars are left to dominate the flavour, and they caramelise beautifully when cooked. Their shape is also longer and thinner than the traditional round red onion, yet few people know that there are actually three types of the famous red onion. The cipolla fresca is harvested in April, and resembles a large red spring onion, with a long and thin stem and purple onion bulb. The cipolla da serbo is then ready in June – this is the iconic red onion with pointed ends that you’ll see in imagery of Tropea. And then later in the year, the cipollotto is harvested in October. Sweet and white, they resemble the classic spring onion in shape.

Although known as the iconic food of the coastal town of Tropea, the consensus amongst food historians is that the Tropea red onion didn’t originate along the Tyrrhenian coast. The variety likely arrived with the Phoenicians and Greeks from across the Mediterranean, as they traded across the sea when Calabria was part of the Magna Grecia over 3,000 years ago. By the medieval ages, the onion was firmly claimed by the locals in the Calabrian peninsula, with multiple accounts from the period referring to the cipolla rossa di Tropea. Nowadays, the onion is grown all over the region of Calabria, but the sandy soil and moderate climate along the coast around Tropea (on the clay cliffs from Capo Vaticano to Briatico) is said to produce the best of the lot.

You’ll find the cipolla rossa crop up on every single menu during your time in Calabria – on everything from pizzas to burgers, crostini, salads (great with tomato), fritattas and sandwiches. Try with the local thin twisted shape of fileja pasta, in simple sauces that leave their sweetness to be the star of the show. In delicatessens across Calabria, you’ll also find the caramelized red onion chutney – which pairs perfectly with cheeses, hams and salamis of a charcuterie board. The onion is also served alone as the star of the show within antipasti dishes, grilled, roasted, salt-baked or even raw with a dash of local olive oil. And of course, your Calabrian antipasti platter wouldn’t be complete unless you pair it with ‘nduja – the perfect combo of sweet and spicy.

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/tropea-red-onion/feed/ 0 761 Things to do in Tropea https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/things-to-do-in-tropea/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tropea-things-to-do-in-tropea https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/things-to-do-in-tropea/#respond Wed, 29 Dec 2021 22:03:44 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=755 TROPEA Travel Guide According to legend, Tropea is said to have been founded by Hercules. Whether this gave the coastline its nickname as the Coast

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TROPEA Travel Guide

According to legend, Tropea is said to have been founded by Hercules. Whether this gave the coastline its nickname as the Coast of the Gods – or whether it was the sparkling waters and breathtaking panoramas, La Costa degli Dei must certainly be on your itinerary when visiting Calabria.

And Tropea is undoubtably the star of the show. The most famous destination in Calabria, the historic town teeters on the rocky cliff edge, towering above the white sands and turquoise Tyrrhenian. The town offers plenty of things to do: from strolling the historic centre in search of cocktails by candlelight; to swimming through the water clear as a bath; to treating your tastebuds with the famous red onion of Tropea, or ‘nduja-filled dishes.

EXPLORE THE CENTRO STORICO

The best way to discover Tropea’s delights is by foot, ambling round its winding streets in search of charming nooks and crannies, with small piazzettas, balconies draped in flowers, and trattorias tucked down charming alleyways. The history of Tropea begins over 2000 years ago in Roman times, and due to its position on the sea, it played an important part in Roman, Norman and Aragonese periods. The centro storico is the main part of the town, and sits 50 metres high upon the clifftop. The town was once walled, only accessible through the town doors and defence systems. Many of the ruins were left by the Byzantines, but the town has been torn apart and rebuilt throughout history, leaving the majority of streets today lined by majestic 17th and 18th century palazzi.

Stroll through the town to discover artisan shops, food delis, gelaterias and restaurants. Every now and again, with a gap in the buildings, you’ll be treated to a glimpse of the sea. Tropea is also filled with many churches, and one of the finest is the Norman Cathedral, built in 1100. The main alter is dedicated to the Madonna di Romania, protectress of the city. She’s credited with saving the church from the two undetonated World War Two bombs by the doorway. You’ll also find a collection of sacred art and archaeology in the adjoining museum.

SANCTUARY OF SANTA MARIA DELL’ISOLA

The iconic monument of Tropea to feature in every postcard is the sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, built on top of the rocky outcrop in front of the historic centre and surrounded by the blue Tyrrhenian. It’s been a sacred spot since the 4th century monastery which sat on the island, and scaling the steps to reach the church is a must for every visitor to the town. Visit the sanctuary for spectacular views of Tropea itself, and be sure to snap a sunset photo of the island from the Piazza del Cannone. Find out more about the story and visiting Santa Maria dell’Isola here.

TROPEA BEACH

Tropea’s white sandy shoreline is one of the best beaches in Calabria, due to its spectacular backdrop. The town towers above Tropea beach, built into the cliff face, and the ‘island’ rocky promontory that is home to the sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola. The water here at Tropea beach is some of the most spectacular you’ll ever find – crystal clear and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Float around and soak up the sunshine, or swim around the isola to discover a hidden sandy cove or jump off the rocks.

If you’re staying in the historic centre, you can reach the beach via the staircase that crosses down the cliff – easy to get down and a challenge at the end of the day to return! Or reach the beach via road on the port side of the town, if you’re travelling from outside, where you’ll find plenty of parking spots. There are private lidos along the coast, where you can hire sunbeds or enjoy the bar. But the free beach is in the perfect spot in our opinion – to the right of the isola and right in front of the town.

As with all beaches in Calabria, it does get busy in August, so it’s best to arrive first thing for a good parking space and ideal spot on the beach. Follow the lead of the Italians and pack your lunch with you to enjoy on the beach – a feast of arancini is the perfect portable sustenance! If you’re looking to visit more beaches during your stay, use our guide to the most beautiful beaches on the Costa degli Dei.

SAILING AND WATER SPORTS

During a holiday in Tropea, you’d be forgiven for wanting to spend all of your time out on that turquoise water. Swim and snorkel straight from the beach around the rocks of the Isola, or join one of the excursions to discover some of the Costa degli Dei’s hidden delights.

Many excursions run from Tropea’s port, which will take you to Capo Vaticano, the best snorkelling spots, and to beaches only accessible by boat. If you’d rather a calming trip, sail along the coast at sunset for a romantic aperitivo, enjoying the light above Tropea at its best. Or for adrenaline seekers, take to the skies for a bird’s eye view of the town, gliding behind the boat from a parasail. Divers will also enjoy spotting sealife – head out on the boat to discover dive sites and explore caves and grottos.

EXCURSIONS TO THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS

An iconic part of the sunset views from Tropea on a clear day are the Aeolian Islands – as the sun sets behind Stromboli volcano out over the Tyrrhenian. There are eight Aeolian Islands in total, located in the sea north of Sicily and approximately 30 miles across the Tyrrhenian from Tropea.

Stromboli is one of Italy’s three active volcanoes, and the volcanic archipelago offers a diverse and striking combination of black sand beaches, fiery volcano, sulfur mud baths, charming towns and secret coves. Take a boat from Tropea to the Aeolian Islands for a day trip, visiting Stromboli itself and a few of the other largest islands, including Vulcano and Lipari. There are many tour offices in the town centre, from which you can book your trip during the summer months.

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/things-to-do-in-tropea/feed/ 0 755 Santa Maria dell’Isola https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/santa-maria-dell-isola/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=santa-maria-dell-isola-tropea https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/santa-maria-dell-isola/#respond Wed, 29 Dec 2021 21:42:52 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=740 TROPEA Travel Guide A fairytale church sat atop the ‘island’ rock in front of Tropea, Santa Maria dell’Isola Monastery is an iconic image on the

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TROPEA Travel Guide

A fairytale church sat atop the ‘island’ rock in front of Tropea, Santa Maria dell’Isola Monastery is an iconic image on the Coast of the Gods (La Costa degli Dei), Calabria. Perched on a rocky promontory and surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea, you can only reach this 4th century monastery by scaling the staircase that leads up the cliff.

The original structure of Santa Maria dell’Isola was built so long ago, the topography of the land around it has changed. Looking at old photographs, you can see the landscape as it was originally, on an island completely surrounded by water. Over the years, silt and sediments filled the water and joined the island to Tropea’s mainland, and the island now connects to a white sandy beach on either side.

First erected as a simple church in medieval times, the structure has been redesigned and rebuilt multiple times, after earthquakes destroyed it in both 1783 and 1905. The history of the church is a little uncertain, but the rock itself was likely inhabited as far back as the 7th century by Greek hermit monks. The 9th century church built in its location belonged to the Basilian monks, then to the Benedictines after the arrival of the Normans in the 11th century. Its story of an ancient site repurposed and reinhabited mirrors that of Calabria’s history – as a land that has been conquered and invaded many times. Today, you’ll discover architecture and relics from every period from Byzantine to Greek, Norman to Saracen.

As the icon of Tropea, a visit up the rock is a must for every visitor to the town. The sanctuary itself is simple and calming inside – and is free to enter. Pay a small fee to explore the gardens and for spectacular views out to the turquoise sea and back towards the towering cliffs of Tropea. There is one window in the sanctuary that offers one of our most picture-perfect spots in all of Calabria – green window shutters frame a view of the iconic town and tropical beach below. Take your time to enjoy the gardens and soak up the views – spectacular at any time of day. On a clear day, you’ll see Stromboli volcano out at sea, and the views of Santa Maria dell’Isola with the pink skies of sunset are unbeatable.

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]]> https://iitalycalabria.com/tropea/santa-maria-dell-isola/feed/ 0 740 Things to do in Pizzo https://iitalycalabria.com/pizzo/things-to-do-in-pizzo/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=things-to-do-in-pizzo https://iitalycalabria.com/pizzo/things-to-do-in-pizzo/#respond Sat, 04 Dec 2021 22:20:21 +0000 https://iitalycalabria.com/?p=661 Pizzo Travel Guide Pizzo is the perfect sleepy town of southern Italy, located in the often-forgotten and little-visited region of Calabria. Wander its streets to

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Pizzo Travel Guide

Pizzo is the perfect sleepy town of southern Italy, located in the often-forgotten and little-visited region of Calabria. Wander its streets to get a glimpse of the real version of la dolce vita. It’s not a town in which you’ll find many tourist ‘activities’ in the traditional sense of things to do. Instead, spend your days here appreciating the slower pace of life – filled of course with food, wine and sunshine, in true Italian style. 

EXPLORE THE CENTRO STORICO

Perched on the clifftop and overlooking the sea, Pizzo’s historical centre is a charming maze of alleyways and pastel coloured houses. The first recordings of the settlement itself originally date back to the 1300’s, when a fishing village, community of monks and a fort were documented. The town now is home to roughly 9,000 residents, with the area of the historic centre sitting 50 metres above sea level. The old town centres around the Piazza della Republica, filled with outdoor tables from gelaterias and restaurants, which has spectacular views over the marina and castle. Don’t miss the viewpoint named ‘Spuntini’, with the wire figure sculpture called ‘Il collezionista di venti’ (the collector of winds). Within the historic centre you’ll find local produce shops, butchers and fishmongers, as well as a few artisan and trinket shops. If your legs get tired, hop aboard a tuk tuk to take you up the hills and winding streets of the town.

CASTELLO MURAT

Pride of place in the Piazza della Republica, and the perfect spot from which to appreciate the panorama, you’ll find the 15th century ancient fort of Murat. The castle is named after Joachim Murat, brother-in-law of Napoleon Boneparte and briefly King of Naples before his capture and execution for treason in 1815. 

The largest tower of the castle was built in the 14th century, as defence against the Saracens. About 100 years later, the rest of the structure was added, with a watchtower looking over the marina. The castle isn’t large, but worth a visit and the 3 euros entrance fee for the impressive vista from the terrace. Head inside to discover the story of Murat and his imprisonment and then death by firing squad.

Piedigrotta Church

Legend tells the story of a shipwreck and miraculously saved sailors who built the church in the honour of the saint that saved them. Today you’ll find the unique setting of a dimly lit church cave on the beach front, carved into the rock and filled with an abundance of statues. Find out more and plan your visit here.

Eat tartufo ice cream

Pizzo is known as the ‘city of ice cream’ for a reason – the famous tartufo di Pizzo. Named after a decadent truffle, the dessert of hazelnut and chocolate ice cream was invented by a local gelataio. You’ll find it on the menu in every gelateria in the town, and you can’t leave Pizzo without sampling (at least!) one.

PIZZO BEACH and Marina

The beach at Pizzo marina is a charming one – a small bay sheltered by the pier and with a backdrop of charming palazzos and the cliff above. You can reach the beach easily by foot, taking the pathway that winds down from the main piazza. Along the marina, you’ll also find a selection of restaurants, bars and gelaterias – perfect for your refreshment during a day on the beach. The spot also becomes a hive of activity on an evening, as locals and holidaymakers descend to stroll along the beachfront (particularly spectacular at sunset) and eat al fresco along the waterfront.

FISHING VILLAGE

As a seaside fishing village, when gazing out to sea from Pizzo, you’ll always spot a fishing boat or two on the water. Fishermen also bask in the sunshine and fish from the shoreline along the marina and from the pier. Historically, Pizzo was most known for its tuna fishing industry. In the early summer months, the tuna would swim right up to the beach, and ‘tonnare’ static nets were used to herd and trap the fish. The company of Callipo continues to export the famous tuna of Pizzo, as one of the largest tuna fishing enterprises in Italy. Founded in 1913, much of the work is still done by hand, and production has stayed in the local area since the beginning.

Whilst staying in Pizzo today, you can arrange to join a local fishing boat on an excursion out at sea, enjoying the coastline, water, sailing along to the Piedigrotta church on the beach, and trying your hand at fishing.

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