The region of Calabria – a largely unknown corner of Italy which forms the ‘toe’ of the country’s boot – boasts around 500 miles of coastline in total. The scenery changes dramatically in each section, from dramatic rocky coves to endless stretches of white sand. Yet it is the so-called Coast of the Gods, ‘La Costa Degli Dei’ – a 55km stretch of coastline along the western Tyrrhenian and within the province of Vibo Valentia – which often captures hearts with its pristine blue waters and resemblance to the Carribbean.
Running from Pizzo in the north to Nicotera in the south, la Costa degli Dei is full of charming beaches, stretches of golden sand, and also rocky coves that are only accessible by boat. It’s the most visited region of Calabria, offering famous foods such as the Tropea red onion and ‘nduja from Spilinga, alongside endless beaches to explore by foot and boat. Divers and snorkel lovers alike will enjoy discovering the seabed. And we would highly recommend taking a day trip from the Coast of the Gods to visit the Aeolian Islands. The volcanic islands are in the Tyrrhenian Sea above Sicily, including the volcano of Stromboli which features in many sunset photographs from along this coastline.
BEST BEACHES ON LA COSTA DEGLI DEI
The famous beach of Tropea has to get a mention when describing the Coast of the Gods. It boasts golden sands, the bathwater-clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming around the rocky ‘island’ of Santa Maria dell’Isola, and the town’s houses are perched above on a spectacular rocky cliff.
Capo Vaticano is also one of our favourite spots. The rocky headland is one of the best places in Calabria to go snorkelling and swimming, and the arc-shaped Grotticelle beach is a fantastic place to spend the day before catching the sunset from the lighthouse viewpoint above.
La Costa degli Dei also has an abundance of other beaches along the full 55km of coastline, outside of these main attraction spots. From coves that you can only reach by boat, to one that you have to cross the train tracks and wind down a secret stairway to access, there are plenty to discover. Read on for our extensive travel guide to the best beaches on the Coast of the Gods.
THINGS TO DO ON LA COSTA DEGLI DEI
Unsurprisingly, holidays on la Costa degli Dei are all about the sea, and one of our favourite things to do is just find a quiet spot to soak up the vistas. Sunset is a particular spectacular time of day, and we always say that two sunsets here are never the same. The whole sky glows pink and orange, reflected in the expansive ocean, and on a clear day you’ll catch the sun setting behind the Aeolian Islands and the iconic Stromboli volcano.
If you’re looking to get active, a favourite activity is unsurprisingly discovering the coastline by boat. You can choose to hire your own – whether it’s a kayak or motor powered – with rental spots from Tropea’s port as well as from many of the beaches along the whole coast, or instead join a scheduled snorkelling excursion and take the chance to dive into the water. The simple activity of hiring a pedalo is also a wonder along this coast – we love to do it from Groticelle beach near Capo Vaticano. Turn right once you arrive at the beachfront, and walk around the headland to the right-hand cove. Taking a boat out from here means that you can easily paddle around the Capo itself, which is a spectacular spot for snorkelling and spotting fish in the clear waters.
You can also take fishing or diving excursions along the coastline, heading further out across the blue waters with the experts. Taking a day trip out to the Aeolian Islands is a great adventure – many excursions run daily from Tropea over the summer months. Or for adrenaline seekers, take to the skies for unparalleled views of Tropea and its beach from a parasail harness.
There are also opportunities to join the locals and discover the food and traditions of the region. Sample the area’s wines at simple local vineyards, or join the association of old ladies at Zungri who are keeping the tradition of bread day alive.
WHERE TO VISIT ON LA COSTA DEGLI DEI
As well as spending time on the beaches, a holiday on la Costa degli Dei also gives you the opportunity to discover town and village life in Calabria. This piece of coastline is also home to two of Calabria’s best seaside towns – the famous Tropea and its lesser-known sister Pizzo (the city of the tartufo ice cream). Both charming towns sit dramatically on the cliffside overlooking this stretch of the Tyrrhenian, and are fantastic bases from which to enjoy the region’s beaches and the full length of the coastline in western Calabria.
This area of Calabria is unsurprisingly a popular holiday destination, and the best highlights are certainly found along its coastline rather than inland. But if you’re looking to venture inland, join a local guide to discover traditions such as the famous ‘nduja sausage of Spilinga, explore the historic city of Vibo Valentia, or visit the ancient rock settlement of Zungri.
WHAT TO EAT ON LA COSTA DEGLI DEI
There are three food produces in particular which originate from la Costa degli Dei and are world-renowned. The first is ‘nduja, pronounced ‘en-DOO-ya’, which everyone always gets wrong! A spicy and spreadable pork sausage, it goes extremely well as a bruschetta topping, on top of pizzas, or used to create rich tomato pasta sauces. The ingredient has taken the culinary world by storm in recent years, and you’ll find it everywhere from Pizza Express to your local supermarket pasta sauces. But few people know that it originates from Spilinga in Calabria! Discover more here.
The second is the Tropea red onion – ‘Cipolle Rosse di Tropea’. An iconic image of Calabria, you’ll see these strung everywhere around the streets and market stalls across the region. Smaller and longer in shape that the traditional round red onion we’re used to, they’re characterized by their sweet taste. Sweet and mild enough to eat raw, they go fantastically with tomatoes in a simple salad, and you’ll also find sweet caramelized chutneys and even as an ice cream flavour!
And rounding off with a sweet treat – the ‘tartufo’ truffle ice cream of Pizzo is a hazelnut and chocolate ball with a molten centre. You’ll find it in every single gelateria of the region, but be sure to take a trip to Pizzo to taste it in its origin. Discover the full story of the origin of tartufo di Pizzo.
As well as these famous produces, you’ll discover many dishes to treat your tastebuds along the whole coastline. Try the Tropea red onion along with tuna (from Pizzo) on our favourite pizza topping. Sample fresh seafood, fish and swordfish in platters or with fresh pasta dishes. Try the local fileja pasta (a long spiral shape), and pick up some arancini for the perfect lunch on the beach.
HOW TO GET TO LA COSTA DEGLI DEI
Our recommendation of transport choice for visiting the Costa degli Dei really depends on the type of holiday you’re looking for. If you’re happy basing yourself in the town of Tropea or Pizzo, or at one of the coast’s many beach resorts if you’re looking for more of a relaxing beach break, you can manage without a car and rely on transfers. But if you would like the freedom to explore other beaches along the coast, or other destinations within Calabria, we would suggest a rental car as public transport isn’t extensive.
La Costa degli Dei is well situated in Calabria to reach from the region’s main airport. Lamezia Terme is a 30 minute drive from Pizzo Calabro, or an hour from Tropea. Driving from the south, you can catch a ferry across to Reggio di Calabria from Messina in Sicily, and reach Tropea in an hour and a half (or Pizzo in an hour) via the E45 autostrada. It’s also possible to reach by train – with stations along the whole coastline, on a scenic rail route that branches off from the connection between Naples and Reggio di Calabria.
