Tour of the Villages: Experience Calabria 

Discover the enchantment of Italy's hidden villages, immersed in timeless tradition and breathtaking landscapes, where history whispers through ancient streets

Experience
Calabria
0
DAYS
0
NIGHTS
NATURE AND ADVENTURE
80%
RELAX
60%
HISTORICAL BUILDINGS AND HISTORY
75%
FOOD AND WINE
100%

Travel Mood

Join us for the 16th edition of the National Festival of "The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy," a celebrated annual event that shines a spotlight on the heritage, culture, and timeless beauty of Italy's 354 picturesque villages. This year, we are delighted to host the festival in the stunning region of Calabria, specifically in the charming municipalities of Oriolo and Rocca Imperiale in the province of Cosenza. These villages, nestled in the heart of Calabria, stand as a profound testament to the region’s rich historical and cultural tapestry, making them the ideal backdrop to celebrate the authenticity and splendor of Italian village life.  

Throughout this extraordinary journey you will immerse yourself in a world where traditional cultures thrive and ancient practices continue to enchant. Experience the vibrancy of local festivals, indulge in authentic Calabrian street food, and sip on the unique wines of the region, such as the passito muscat of Saracena. Discover hidden rites in the secluded reaches of the Pollino area, where age-old arbëreshë and apotropaic rituals are preserved.

Calabria opens its arms to the world, inviting you to traverse the cradle of great civilizations, situated at the nexus of the Mediterranean’s two seas and three dramatic peaks. It's an invitation to awaken your senses to the wonders of Calabria.

Location

Casa Castello in Rocca Imperiale
Casa Castello is situated in the quaint square of the majestic castle of Rocca Imperiale. This location offers a unique experience as it is nestled within the historic walls of a commanding medieval fortress. The setting provides visitors with a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape and a direct connection to the rich history and cultural heritage of the area. Casa Castello serves as an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the charm and history of Rocca Imperiale.

Il Borghetto di Tropea
Il Borghetto di Tropea is an enchanting accommodation nestled in the heart of Tropea, Italy, one of the most picturesque towns along the Calabrian coast. This charming retreat offers guests a serene and cozy stay, with beautifully appointed apartments that blend rustic charm with modern comforts. Each apartment provides a private space to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding medieval town and crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The property is ideally located within walking distance of Tropea's vibrant historical center, famous for its narrow streets, traditional restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Il Borghetto di Tropea is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway in a breathtaking Italian setting.

Grand Hotel Excelsior - Reggio Calabria
The Grand Hotel Excelsior is a prestigious hotel located in the vibrant heart of Reggio Calabria, offering unparalleled luxury and comfort. This elegant hotel boasts an impressive array of amenities, including well-appointed rooms and suites that offer spectacular views of the Strait of Messina and the city's historic landmarks. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining experiences at the hotel's restaurants, which serve a variety of local and international dishes prepared with the finest ingredients. The hotel also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, a relaxing spa, and versatile conference facilities suitable for both business and social events. With its prime location, the Grand Hotel Excelsior provides easy access to Reggio Calabria's cultural attractions, shopping districts, and stunning waterfront, making it an ideal choice for discerning travelers seeking luxury and convenience in southern Italy.

Travel Date Options

2024

  • From September 6th to September 15th
Price (per person)

$6,000

Additional Information

Additional supplement for single $ 500,00

What is included

All accomodations for double occupancy
All lunches
Selected aperitivo and dinners per itinerary
All experiences/excursions
All transportation
ITINERARY

DAY 1

Welcome to Calabria

STAGE 1 - Pick up from Bari Airport and transfer to Rocca Imperiale

STAGE 2 - Check-in and welcome dinner in Rocca Imperiale. Enjoy the local festival atmosphere

DAY 2

Oriolo Exploration

STAGE 1 - Breakfast at the hotel followed by a guided tour of Oriolo

STAGE 2 - Relax on the beach

STAGE 3 -  Aperitivo and dinner, followed by festival activities

DAY 3

Civita and Saracena

STAGE 1 - Breakfast, then departure for Civita to explore the Arabesque culture and visit "The 7 Houses" by artist Kodra

STAGE 2 - Visit the Cantina Viola winery in Saracena

STAGE 3 - Return to Rocca Imperiale for aperitivo and festival enjoyment

DAY 4

Journey to Tropea

STAGE 1 - Breakfast and departure for Tropea, with a stop at Paola to visit the Sanctuary of San Francesco di Paola

STAGE 2 - Lunch in Fuscaldo and continuation to Tropea

STAGE 3 - Check-in in Tropea

DAY 5

Tropea Leisure

STAGE 1 - Breakfast followed by a leisurely morning on the beach

STAGE 2 - Visit Tropea borgo.

Tropea is a picturesque town in Calabria, known for its cliff-top setting overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Its historic old quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets and traditional architecture, leading to stunning beaches below. Tropea is also famed for its culinary delights, especially the sweet 'Cipolla di Tropea' onions. This charming town combines natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant flavors, offering a quintessential Italian coastal experience.

STAGE 3 - Aperitivo in town

DAY 6

Tropea's Coastal Beauty

STAGE 1 - Breakfast followed by the "Onion Experience"

STAGE 2 - Boat tour to view the sunset with aperitivo on board

DAY 7

Towards Reggio Calabria

STAGE 1 - Breakfast and departure for Reggio Calabria, with a stop in Scilla, a charming fishermen's borgo

STAGE 2 - Lunch and walking tour in Scilla

STAGE 3 - Check-in in Reggio Calabria. Aperitivo on the boardwalk. Enjoy gelato at Cesare, one of the best gelateria in all of Italy

DAY 8

Discovering Reggio Calabria

STAGE 1 - Breakfast followed by a visit to the Museo of Reggio Calabria

STAGE 2 - Light lunch and free time

STAGE 3 - Aperitivo along the most beautiful kilometer in Italy

DAY 9

Bergamot and Farewells

STAGE 1 - Breakfast and a visit to the Bergamot Museum

STAGE 2 - Lunch and free time

STAGE 3 - Farewell dinner

DAY 10

STAGE 1 - Breakfast, check-out and transportation to Lamezia Terme Airport

Italy. Every hill a village. Every village a story. Every story a secret to tell.
F. Carampana

FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS 

  1. What forms of payment do you accept?
    Cash, Credit Card, Check, PayPal.
  2. What is your cancellation policy?
    $500 non refundable deposit. (Unless noted below) 

    Payment in full is required at 30 days prior to departure REFUNDS / In the event that we must cancel a trip, you will be given a full refund of all deposits and payments.

    We do not give refunds of deposits or final payments for tours that commence as scheduled, including for unused portions of the tour. We do give credit for cancellations as noted below. 

    Cancellation policy: In the event you cancel your tour for any reason, we allow credit for payments (but not the non-refundable deposit) in the following way: 
    - 100% credit for future tours given with 90 days notice. 
    - No credit given for cancellation less than 30 days prior to start date of the tour. 

    The airport in Calabira is Called: Lamezia Terme (SUF) 

    We must reach a minimum of 12 People to have this tour. 

    If this number is not reeached we will return all monies.
  3. What document are required to travel to Italy?
    Passport (not to expire within 6months of leaving the USA), proof of vaccination.
  4. Can you accommodate gluten-free travelers on your tour?
    Yes, we accomodate gluten-free travelers 
OUT OF TIME

Rocca Imperiale

Rocca Imperiale: "Rocca Imperiale is a charming village in Calabria, Italy, known for its spectacular views of the Ionian Sea and rich history. The centerpiece is its 13th-century castle built by Emperor Frederick II, which offers a glimpse into medieval times. The village is particularly famous for its cultivation of the unique Rocca Imperiale PGI lemons, celebrated during the annual Lemon Festival with local food, music, and crafts. These lemons are renowned for their intense aroma and the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making them highly prized in Italian cuisine. The quaint streets, lined with stone houses and flowering balconies, along with local artisan shops and eateries, showcase the authentic Calabrian lifestyle. The surrounding countryside and pristine beaches provide numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, making Rocca Imperiale a delightful destination for both history buffs and nature lovers." This revision includes a focus on the specific qualities of Rocca Imperiale lemons and links them to the local culinary heritage, enhancing the overall description of the village.

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