From anywhere in Calabria, just a few kilometres are enough to find yourself facing the sea. But not just any sea — the Mediterranean, cradle of all civilizations!

It’s a truly unforgettable sight when, driving along a mountain road gently descending toward the coast, after yet another bend, the endless blue of the sea suddenly comes into view.

To fall in love with this sea, all it takes is a glimpse of the coastline’s raw beauty — discovering its semi-hidden corners that take your breath away, or staring out at a seemingly infinite horizon, interrupted only by the silhouette of an island, the edge of a rocky headland, or the sun pausing at the world’s edge during sunrise or sunset.

We are always left in awe by the variety of landscapes here: from wide, sandy beaches perfect for a peaceful seaside holiday, to rugged, rocky stretches of coast just a few steps away — ideal for nature lovers, extreme sports enthusiasts, or anyone drawn to quiet contemplation.

Calabria is home to fifteen towns proudly listed among “The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.”

📍 In the Province of Cosenza: Aieta, Altomonte, Buonvicino, Civita, Fiumefreddo Bruzio, Morano Calabro, Oriolo, and Rocca Imperiale
📍 In the Province of Crotone: Caccuri and Santa Severina
📍 In the Province of Catanzaro: Badolato
📍 In the Province of Vibo Valentia: Tropea
📍 In the Province of Reggio Calabria: Bova, Gerace, and Stilo

Each of these villages is a hidden gem, waiting to reveal its most treasured wonders.
Here, you’ll experience true Calabrian hospitality, enjoy slow, authentic living, taste traditional local products, and explore off-the-beaten-path itineraries rich in history and charm.

The Province of Cosenza currently holds the highest number of these “Most Beautiful Villages” in Calabria — perched on the shores of the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas, or nestled within the majestic mountain ranges of the Pollino National Park and Sila National Park.

The “Authentic Villages of Italy” — promoted by the national association of the same name — are living communities to be experienced, supported, and preserved. These villages form a network of territories where local communities lead a model of sustainable, fair development that respects the land and its people while celebrating local identity and traditions.

Calabria proudly hosts twenty-one towns that are part of the Authentic Villages of Italy network:

📍 In the Province of Cosenza:
Albidona, Alessandria del Carretto, Canna, Casali del Manco, Cerisano, Laino Borgo, Laino Castello, Mendicino, Montegiordano, Rende (historic centre), Roseto Capo Spulico, San Lorenzo Bellizzi, Saracena, and Zumpano

📍 In the Province of Crotone:
Cirò and Melissa

📍 In the Province of Catanzaro:
Cicala, Gizzeria, Miglierina, and Serrastretta

📍 In the Province of Reggio Calabria:
Bovalino

These villages offer not only beauty, but a true sense of community, heritage, and harmony — perfect for travellers seeking meaningful experiences rooted in authenticity.

Calabria, renowned for its stunning coastline stretching over 800 kilometres, offers a truly unique experience thanks to its extraordinary geography.

In just a short drive, you can travel from breathtaking seaside views to the towering mountains of the hinterland — enjoying a dramatic shift in climate and scenery. This rare geographic diversity makes Calabria a one-of-a-kind destination in Southern Italy, where the Mediterranean charm of the coast meets the majesty of the surrounding peaks.

Calabria is home to three national parks — the Pollino National Park, the Sila National Park, and the Aspromonte National Park — along with the Serre Regional Nature Park, the Valli Cupe Regional Nature Reserve, and many other protected natural areas.

In Calabria, mountains are far more than just geological formations — they are places of inspiration, adventure, and discovery. Here, ancient villages and historical landmarks blend harmoniously with the mountain landscape, creating a symphony of emotions, traditions, and breathtaking beauty.

Travel Back in Time Aboard the Sila Train — The Perfect Family Day Out

Yes, it’s still possible to travel on an old-fashioned steam train during your holiday in Calabria. All you need to do is hop aboard the Sila Train, which winds its way through the Sila National Park — one of Calabria’s most beautiful natural reserves.

This unforgettable excursion adds a whole new flavour to your family holiday — the flavour of another era.

The narrow-gauge railway reaches an altitude of 1,405 metres, connecting Moccone station with San Nicola via Camigliatello Silano. Along the way, you'll pass through landscapes so timeless, it feels like stepping into an old movie.

The Sila Train began steaming once again in 2016, after a long and loving restoration brought back one of the most iconic features of this land. Originally built in the early 1900s, the railway lets you discover the Sila from a truly unique perspective — slowly climbing, hissing and whistling its way through valleys and mountains.

At first, the route runs alongside the provincial road, but soon you’re immersed in untouched nature. After crossing the impressive Camigliati Viaduct, towering 166 metres above the ground, the train enters the thick Sila forest and starts climbing toward the heart of the plateau.

At Croce di Magara station, you’re already at 1,354 metres. Then, after crossing the Neto River, the train begins a gentle descent.

The final stretch is truly spectacular: you'll enjoy sweeping views of the Crati Valley and Lake Cecita, as the train navigates curves and switchbacks, eventually reaching San Nicola — the highest railway station in Italy at 1,406.50 metres above sea level.

As the train approaches, you'll first hear its whistle, then see its plume of steam, and finally the black-and-red 1926 Borsig 353 locomotive emerging from the green forest, followed by its iconic green carriages. That sound — the whistle — is the signal you’re about to step into another world, a slower rhythm far from modern life.

Riding the Sila Train is more than a journey — it’s a chance to rediscover the slower pace of life from days gone by. Settle into the old wooden seats and take in the view. Or better yet, ride the front platform of the first carriage, the wind in your hair — the best seat in the house.