The southern toe of Italy, Calabria is bordered by Basilicata to the north and is surrounded on its other sides by the Tyrrhenian Sea (west) and Ionian Sea (east), reaching out to almost touch Sicily.
This narrow strait between mainland and Sicily was mythologised by Homer, in Ulysses' journey between the rocks of Scylla and Charybdis. A largely rural and underdeveloped region, towns include Reggio di Calabria, Scalea, Maratea, Diamante, Praie a Mare, Catanzaro and Cosenza - the majority either on or very near the coast.
Prime beaches lie on the western Tropea promontory, including Nicotera, Tropea and Vibo Marina. Must-sees include the Aspromonte massif, superb mountain scenery on the very southern tip of Italy. Cosenza is a fascinating old town and has good access to the Sila Massif - itself with great walking and skiing.
Calabria is genuinely a place where you might ski in the morning and sunbathe after lunch. Reggio di Calabria has frequent and quick ferries over to Sicily. Regional food includes pasta, pork, a heavy Greek influence with swordfish, aubergines, figs, honey and almonds.
To the left you'll find a selection of hotels, just to whet your appetite,
as well as links to individual towns in Calabria (top left);
See also Calabria hotels (full listings) and our map of Calabria.
