A Guide to Italy
 

Calabria

Calabria is the southern most region of Italy situated between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, giving it a superb coastline and fabulous beaches. It is a narrow peninsula where the "cliffs meet the seas", the intricate coastline facing the water every way you look. Calabria comes from the word "Calab" which means a dense forest and you will see pine trees, grape vines and olive and fig trees clinging to the rugged mountains, adding to their majesty and grandeur.

The region is divided into five various provinces, Catanzaro (the Capital), Vibo Valentia, Cosenza, Crotone and Reggio and Calabria. The beauty of Calabria with its vivid blue waters set against fine black or white sand and backdrop of green, verdant forests, is truly the jewel in Italy's crown. Along the 780km of coastline in Calabria you will find many lidos (beach clubs) where, during the day, you can relax and enjoy a cold drink right at the beachfront and in the evening, dance the night away.

Antiquity, charm, beauty and grace are just a few of the words that describe the undiscovered paradise that is Calabria and best of all it is still untouched by mass tourism. With its un-spoilt coastline, mountain grandeur, and age-old historical towns, Calabria is undoubtedly one of the best spots in Italy, with perfect weather all year round and a relaxed Italian lifestyle.

From Reggio di Calabria there is a cheap, regular ferry service to the Isle of Sicily, famous for its stunning, snow capped peak of Mount Etna, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Sicily is an amazing island with glamorous boutiques, gelato or ice cream bars and traditional Sicilian restaurants.

Average Temperature:

Currency: Euro

Time: GMT + 1
 
Getting There: Budget airline, Ryanair, flies to Lamezia-Terme for the Calabria region. Flying time is about two hours from the UK.