Calabria

Calabria is the most southern part of the Italian Peninsula; its boundaries are with Basilicata on the north, the Ionio Sea on the east and Tyrrhenian Sea on the west. It is separated from Sicily by the Messina channel. High mountains plunge into the sea, which creates a varied coastline with a number of small bays, long sandy beaches and lush vegetation.

The region may be viewed as the poor brother of the South but there has been much investment in recent years; tourism is becoming vibrant and increasing year on year, Lamezia Terme airport is improving connections and the Salerno – Reggio Calabria autostrada has been further developed.

Food in Calabria is spicy and hot; expect lots of fresh fish, pasta and vegetables.

The Tyrrhenian coast from Praia a Mare south to Paola is known as the ‘Citrus Riviera’ because of the perfume of the citrus blossom. Expect to see tiny picturesque villages hugging the hills that slope down to the sea but the majority of property on offer is in the new developments, which would be excellent as rental properties. The town of San Nicola Arcella, one of the most charming towns of the so-called Riviera dei Cedri (The Cedar Trees Riviera) is located on the Gulf of Policastro and there is plenty of property potential in this area.

The property market is buoyant in Calabria with prices on the increase. The region is still not completely on the overseas buyers list or in the overseas property media but it is certainly a region to keep an eye on, where it is still easy to find a bargain with sea views. The region may not the first choice for a relocation but those looking for a holiday home or apartment, will be more than pleased with what is on offer; the beautiful landscape, fantastic coastlines, excellent climate, warm and friendly locals and above all, unmatched prices but property by the sea.

How to get there

Air
The airports to access the region are Naples and Lamezia Terme.

Car
The A3 runs from north to South from Reggio Calabria to Salerno, which connects to Naples.

See our links page for useful web addresses and telephone numbers.