Why Calabria is worth a trip even in winter
Romantic bathing bays, bizarre rocky coasts, medieval and over 300 days of sunshine a year: for Italy connoisseurs, Calabria, surrounded by the sea on three sides, has not been an insider tip for summer holidays for years.
But if you don’t want to freeze in the cold season, you don’t think of Calabria, but mostly of destinations in Spain, Turkey or North Africa. But in winter, your feet are warm even at the tip of your boots!
While temperatures are dropping in Germany, Calabria promises a mild climate even in the cold season, with lots of sun, little rain and daytime temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees. Holidaymakers experience a very special peace and originality, especially in the coastal town of Tropea.
Tropea, known as the “Pearl of Calabria” and the “St. Tropez of Italy”, is a picturesque town that was built on a 42-meter-high cliff to protect it from pirates. Narrow streets, cozy piazza, from the viewing platform at the end of Corso Vittorio Emanuele you have a fantastic view of the pilgrimage church of Santa Maria dell’Isola and the sea.
Calabria in winter: lots of peace and space
In summer, crowds of tourists move through the town all day long, but in winter the picturesque town with its pastel-colored houses belongs almost exclusively to the locals and a few vacationers. The atmosphere is relaxed, the streets and squares are emptier. Many shops, bars and restaurants are closed. But in those that are open you can always find a place.
The regional cuisine is simple but also incredibly delicious. From homemade pasta to fresh swordfish to hearty dishes with sheep’s or goat’s cheese. The area is particularly famous for the red Tropea onion, which is sweeter and milder than its counterparts. This famous onion is served in all restaurants: with the typical Calabrian pasta Filelja, as jam with pecorino cheese, in salads or as a pizza topping. With that, a glass of Ciró, one of the oldest types of wine in the world – delicious! And for those with a sweet tooth, Pizzo, about half an hour north of Tropea, is a must: this is where the famous chocolatey Tartufo ice cream originates.
Empty beaches
Those looking for peace and quiet will also love the beaches of Calabria in winter. The region offers some of the most beautiful stretches of coast in Italy, which you often have all to yourself in the off-season. The beach of Tropea with its clear water invites you to take a walk even in winter. Swimming is also not out of the question for the very brave: the water may be fresh, but it is usually still around 16 degrees.
And is there anything to experience in Calabria in winter? Yes, a lot! Calabria, with its 3,000-year history, is a dream destination for active holidaymakers in particular: hiking, cycling and walks are pleasant in mild temperatures and often accompanied by spectacular views, such as at Capo Vaticano. It is said that nowhere in Italy is the water clearer and bluer than there. A trip to the centuries-old towns of Nicotera or Scilla is also worthwhile. On the eastern side of Calabria lies the Ionian coast with the legendary mountains of the Aspromonte Mountains and archaeological sites of the ancient colony of Locri.
Save money in winter
Winter in Calabria is also financially worthwhile: flights to Lamezia Terme or Reggio di Calabria cost around 250 euros, less than half of what they cost in high season. Accommodation prices are significantly lower than in summer, with prices starting at 300 euros for seven days and two people, and restaurants have also reduced their prices. Pizza and pasta usually start at eight euros, and a delicious grilled swordfish starts at 14 euros.
