Road trip lovers, have you ever considered Calabria as your next destination? This region, located in the far south of Italy, offers a perfect mix of crystal-clear sea, enchanting mountains, historical riches, and culinary delights. And what could be better than exploring it in a motorhome or caravan, enjoying the freedom to stop at welcoming farms thanks to Agricamper? Download our app and try the Demo version to discover the available stops in Calabria.
The natural wonders of Calabria: a land of unexplored contrasts
Calabria, the tip of the Italian boot, is a land of extraordinary natural beauty offering diversified and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for exploring in a motorhome or caravan. This region, where the deep blue of the sea meets the intense green of the mountains, hides corners of paradise just waiting to be discovered.
The Coast of the Gods: a dream shoreline
The Coast of the Gods stretches along the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, offering white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Among these, Tropea, known as the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian, is famous not only for its transparent sea but also for the imposing rock upon which the historic center sits, crowned by the church of Santa Maria dell’Isola. At sunset, the colors of the sky and sea merge into an unforgettable natural spectacle.
The Sila National Park: a dive into unspoiled nature
In the heart of Calabria lies the Sila National Park, a protected area characterized by its vast plateaus and dense coniferous forests. Here, trekking and nature enthusiasts can explore numerous trails, such as the one leading to Lake Arvo, a glacial lake surrounded by breathtaking views. The park is also an ideal habitat for a rich wildlife: it is not uncommon to encounter wolves, golden eagles, and, if you’re lucky, the very rare black woodpecker.
Aspromonte: between waterfalls and ancient villages
The Aspromonte, at the southern tip of Calabria, is a mountainous territory that surprises with its variety of landscapes: from rugged rocky peaks to green valleys, from spectacular waterfalls like those of Maesano to quiet mountain villages where time seems to have stopped. This area offers hiking paths that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the wild nature and discover the authenticity of a less-known Calabria.
A dive into history: the rich cultural heritage of Calabria
Calabria is not just a natural treasure but also a cradle of history and culture that has its roots in ancient times, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts traveling on the road. This region, witness to ancient civilizations and dominations, offers a fascinating journey through the centuries, where every stone, monument, and archaeological site tells a story. From the charm of ancient Greek civilizations to medieval fortresses, every corner of this land has a story to tell, making every stop a unique and enriching experience.
The Riace Bronzes: masterpieces of antiquity
A must-visit for anyone traveling to Calabria is the National Museum of Magna Graecia in Reggio Calabria, home to the Riace Bronzes, two magnificent bronze statues dating back to the 5th century BC. Discovered in 1972 on the seabed near Riace, these masterpieces of ancient art offer a direct look at the sculptural skill of the Greek masters and the deep connection between Calabria and Hellenic culture.
The Aragonese Castle of Le Castella: a fortress by the sea
Located on an island connected to the mainland only by a narrow strip of sand, the Aragonese Castle of Le Castella is an imposing bulwark dominating the surrounding landscape. This fortress, which has seen centuries of history, from battles against pirates to Aragonese dominations, is a fascinating place where time seems to have stopped.
Excavations of Sybaris: traces of a lost civilization
The excavations of Sybaris, one of Italy’s most important archaeological sites, offer the opportunity to explore the remains of one of the most powerful cities of Magna Graecia. Founded in the 8th century BC, Sybaris was a premier commercial and cultural center before being destroyed and submerged by its own inhabitants. Today, walking among the ruins, one can admire the urban ingenuity and greatness of this ancient civilization.
Gerace: a medieval village suspended in time
In the heart of Locride stands Gerace, a medieval village that retains its historic charm. Characterized by narrow alleys, stone houses, and splendid churches, among which stands out the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, one of the most significant examples of Norman architecture in Southern Italy, Gerace is a true historical jewel. Visiting this village is not just an opportunity to discover medieval architecture and art but also to enjoy breathtaking views of the Ionian coast.
Discovering Calabrian cities: culture, history, and breathtaking views
Calabria is also a land of cities rich in history, culture, and traditions. Each Calabrian city has its unique identity, offering travelers a wide range of experiences to live and places to explore. Here are some of the main cities not to miss during your road trip in this fascinating region.
Reggio Calabria: between sea and culture
Overlooking the strait that separates Calabria from Sicily, Reggio Calabria is famous not only for its beautiful promenade, considered among the most beautiful in Italy, but also for its rich cultural heritage. In addition to the well-known National Museum of Magna Graecia, another gem not to miss is the Aragonese Castle. This ancient fortress, witness to the various historical epochs that have marked the city, offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in history through its imposing walls and towers.
Cosenza: a bridge between the past and the present
Cosenza, located in the Calabrian hinterland, enchants with its mix of history, art, and nature. The historic center, dominated by the Norman-Swabian Castle, offers picturesque views and monuments that tell centuries of history. Not to be missed is also the Bilotti Open-Air Museum (MAB), a permanent exhibition of modern sculptures that adorn Corso Mazzini, making art accessible to everyone.
Catanzaro: the heart of Calabria
Catanzaro, the regional capital, is known as the city of two seas, being located between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. Among the places of interest is the Mediterranean Biodiversity Park, a large green space that hosts typical Mediterranean plant species and areas dedicated to relaxation and sports.
Lamezia Terme: a crossroads of history and thermal baths
Lamezia Terme, an important railway and airport hub, is also a city with an interesting historical and cultural heritage. The ruins of the Benedictine Abbey of Santa Eufemia offer a glimpse into medieval monastic life, while, not far from the city, the Norman Castle testifies to Lamezia Terme’s strategic military importance over the centuries.
Discovering the authentic flavors of Calabria
Traveling in Calabria also means embarking on a culinary journey through intense flavors and deep-rooted gastronomic traditions. The Calabrian cuisine, known for its bold character and history-rich recipes, invites you on a tasty exploration that will satisfy every palate.
A must for spicy food lovers is ‘nduja from Spilinga, a soft and spicy salami, a flagship of local gastronomy. Perfect spread on a slice of homemade bread or as a seasoning for first courses, ‘nduja represents the fiery soul of Calabria.
No less important is the Pecorino del Monte Poro, a cheese with an intense flavor and grainy texture, produced in the mountain areas of Calabria.
And to conclude the meal, let yourself be tempted by traditional Calabrian sweets. From cedrata ice cream, prepared with the famous citrons of the Riviera dei Cedri, to mostaccioli and Pizzo truffles, small delights that encapsulate the flavors and scents of this land, every dessert is a feast for the senses.
Conclusion
Don’t wait any longer! Download the Agricamper app to get a preview of the features and discover where the free stops are in Calabria.
And if you’re ready for the adventure, purchase Agricamper membership to access all the information and set off to discover Calabria in a motorhome or caravan. The freedom to explore, stop in nature, and live authentic experiences awaits you.
