Wedged between the crystalline blue of the Strait of Messina and the rugged peaks of Aspromonte, Reggio Calabria holds a mosaic of landscapes and cultures that make this province a true jewel of the Deep South of Italy. A weekend in this corner of paradise represents a multifaceted experience, capable of satisfying both sea lovers, with its beaches lapped by transparent waters, as well as mountain enthusiasts, who can climb the The uncontaminated paths of the mountainous areas. Not only nature, but also history, art and gastronomy distinguish Reggio Calabria, a crossroads of populations and traditions that have left an indelible mark on the urban fabric and local customs. Let’s get ready to explore the wonders of this land, where the vestiges of Magna Graecia coexist with the lively expressions of contemporaneity, in a continuous dialogue between the past and the present.
Discovering Reggio Calabria: between nature and leisure
Immersed in the extreme tip of the Italian boot, waiting for the dawn to reveal itself on the strait that divides it from Sicily, we find Reggio Calabria: a city where the “natural” environment is a majestic backdrop to culture, history and entertainment. The climate, typically Mediterranean, offers mild winters and hot, sunny summers, ideal for those who love the sea but also the cool inland hills. The geographical position, unique and evocative, makes Reggio Calabria a crossroads of different landscapes: on one side the vast Ionian blue, on the other the imposing peaks of Aspromonte. Here, the opportunities to immerse yourself in nature are endless: excursions along the mountain paths surrounded by centuries-old forests, walks on the golden beaches and refreshing baths in the crystal clear waters of the sea.
An itinerary among the beauties of Reggio
Start the day with a walk on the Falcomatà seafront, often described as the most beautiful kilometre in Italy. Savor the aroma of fresh coffee in the bars overlooking the sea while the sun reflects on the waters of the strait. Then continue with the visit to the National Museum of Magna Greece, custodian of the famous Riace Bronzes, two bronze warriors who represent the artistic mastery of antiquity. Let yourself be enchanted by too Aragonese castlewitness to the multiple dominations that have marked the history of the city.
The beauty of Reggio does not stop at the seafront: its most evocative corners are often revealed far from the coast. Reach the hamlet of Scylla, a picturesque fishing village with its famous Ruffo Castle, which stands proudly on a rock spur. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the freshness of local fish in one of the small restaurants with sea views. If you’re looking for adventure, treat yourself to an excursion to Aspromonte National Park: here the paths climb between dense woods and streams, offering breathtaking scenery and rich and interesting fauna. In the evening, enjoy the return to the city and a dinner based on typical Calabrian dishes, where the intense flavors of chili pepper and aubergines blend in the ‘nduja and ‘mplinga to delight your palate.
Reggio Calabria is a perfect combination of exuberant nature and cultural richness. A place where time seems to stop, allowing you to savor every moment of unexpected views and breathtaking views. The city and its surroundings represent an unmissable destination for those who wish to experience a long weekend among the wonders of the Deep South. Regardless of your way of travelling, you will find what you were looking for: relaxation, adventure, culture, and above all, a warm welcome in every corner of this sunny land.
Reggio Calabria presents itself as a gem with two faces: on one side its very long embrace of the sea, on the other the rugged and majestic peaks. This city can proudly claim to offer an intensely varied experience, capable of satisfying both lovers of maritime relaxation and mountain adventure seekers. Between the rediscovery of the Hellenic charm in the ruins of Riace and the immersion in the unique flavors of the local cuisine, the visitor from Reggio Calabria explores not just one, but a thousand facets of a rich and surprising South. It is the discovery of an uninterrupted dialogue between past and present, between uncontaminated nature and profound culture, which invites us to be taken up again. Let us get lost in the gaze of Scylla and Charybdis or savor the quiet paths of Aspromonte, Reggio is a destination that promises to leave the visitor with indelible memories, with the certainty that a weekend is not enough to explore the depth and beauty of this corner of Calabria.
