Calabria accommodation from AU$178

Calabria is a vibrant region at the toe of Italy’s boot. Although it’s worth a visit for its delicious food and historic castles and monasteries, it’s the beaches that really make this place spectacular. White sand, turquoise sea, high cliffs and a long and lovely coastline make for a brilliant ocean escape, so check out our Calabria seaside hotels.

History

Calabria covers 15,082 square kms, but its long narrow shape guarantees that no area is more than 50 kms from the sea. The ancient Oenotrian tribe colonised Calabria in 2000 B.C, and King Italio of the Oenotrians named the region after himself, making it essentially the first area in the country to be named ‘Italy’.

Things to do

Take a swim in the clear blue waters beneath the tall granite cliffs of Capo Vaticano. Relax on the shores of Sibari, admire the sandy bays of Pizzo or chill out under the colourful umbrellas on the shores of Marinella Beach in Palmi. Swim, de-stress, snorkel and scuba dive... there are so many options when you come on down to Calabria beach.

To take a break from the beach and go bushwalking instead, visit the national parks of Sila, Serre, Aspromonte and Pollino for ancient plants, rugged mountains, boulders, creeks and other wonderful landscapes.

Shopping and dining

You can shop al fresco in Calabria, with the region’s largest outdoor market in the town of Soverato. In beachside regions like Tropea, you’ll find beach gear and souvenirs. Calabria is rich in fresh seafood and local dishes like nduja - sausage packed with chilli, Calabrian hot pepper (pepperoncino!) and Tropea red onion. After your swim, fill up at one of the region’s seaside restaurants.

Getting here

Check out our cheap flights to Calabria to go with your Calabria accommodation and take your Italian break on the beach. Wot more could you want?

Image credit Blueshade under Creative Commons