The Perfect Calabrian Experience
ESCAPE TO SOUTHERN ITALY – A SENSORY JOURNEY THROUGH CALABRIA
Day 1 – Welcome with a (Michelin) Star
Arrival in Calabria, and private transfer to Badolato, a stunning medieval village overlooking the Ionian Sea, ranked among Italy’s most beautiful villages of 2024 by the Borghi più Belli d’Italia association.
In the evening: Mediterranean Fine Dining Experience with Michelin-Starred Chef Luca Abbruzzino
Day 2: Calabrian cooking class
Start your day along the crystal-clear waters of the Calabrian coast, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing seaside experience combined with a guided tasting of sea-to-table fresh seafood delicacies—caught and prepared according to local tradition.
In the evening, continue your cultural journey at a charming, restored old olive mill nestled in the countryside. Here, you’ll be welcomed into a warm, rustic estate where a local cook will guide you through a traditional Calabrian cooking class. Learn to prepare regional dishes using locally sourced ingredients, including freshly pressed olive oil. Enjoy your creations at the end of the lesson in a convivial, family-style dinner atmosphere.
Day 3 - Traditional Farm & Innovative Mediterranean Cuisine
Immerse yourself in the rural charm of Calabria with a full-day experience on a traditional farm. Surrounded by nature, you’ll take part in hands-on cheese-making activities, learning how to craft mozzarella, ricotta, caciocavallo, and other local cheeses using time-honored methods. Afterward, savor a selection of farm-to-table products paired with the freshly made cheeses, everything produced locally and at “zero-kilometer” distance, ensuring quality and sustainability.
In the evening, the experience continues at Hostaria Montepaone, which features a selection of meticulously crafted dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region, with a unique tasting menu. Here, traditional Calabrian flavors meet a creative and modern twist, offering an unforgettable fusion of heritage and innovation.
Day 4 - Sea & Oranges
Begin your day with a refined culinary experience at a modern seaside resort set along Calabria’s stunning coastline, where white sandy beaches meet crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll enjoy a contemporary take on Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant yet relaxed setting, with the sound of the waves as your backdrop.
In the afternoon, leave the coast behind and head inland to a traditional farm nestled in a lush orange grove. Surrounded by the fragrant scent of citrus trees, you’ll be guided through the artisanal process of bread-making, using ancient grains and traditional techniques passed down through generations. Engage all your senses as you explore the authentic flavors and aromas of rural Calabria.
Day 5: A Sensory Day in the Vineyard
Tasting, Views, and Tailored Experiences: Enjoy a full sensory experience in one of Calabria’s most scenic wineries.
The day begins with a guided walk through the vineyards, located in a strategic spot offering breathtaking views of both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas—a rare and unforgettable panorama. Following the walk, you’ll be invited to discover the essence of the territory through a local wine tasting, each one expressing the character of the land and the passion of its winemakers.
In the afternoon, the experience continues with personalized activities designed to match the interests and profiles of each guest. Whether it’s a more in-depth exploration of wine production, a relaxing moment in nature, or a cultural insight into local traditions, every guest will find a unique way to connect with the land.
The day concludes in a stunning location overlooking the Gulf of Squillace, where guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening surrounded by breathtaking views and the essence of Calabrian hospitality.
Day 6: Sea & Culture
Start your day with free time to relax and enjoy the beautiful beach of Soverato, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coastal atmosphere. For those interested, an optional guided walk to the local food market will be available—a chance to explore fresh regional ingredients and experience the everyday rhythms of Calabrian life.
At midday, indulge in a seaside seafood lunch, featuring freshly caught fish and traditional coastal flavors served right on the beach.
In the evening, the spotlight shifts to culture and cuisine with the official opening of the Food Festival at the magnificent Castle of Squillace. This stunning historic setting will host a grand opening ceremony led by local authorities, with members of the press in attendance. The event will feature live show cooking, showcasing the culinary artistry of renowned chefs, accompanied by live music entertainment and a selection of fine Calabrian wines for tasting, highlighting the region’s rich winemaking tradition.
An unforgettable evening of flavor, culture, and celebration in one of Calabria’s most iconic locations.
Day 7 – Mediterranean Glamour at the Castle
Spend your last day soaking in the timeless beauty and joy of Calabria. The morning is dedicated to pure relaxation—enjoy a classic day at the beach alongside the local community, embracing the warm sun, crystal-clear sea, and the friendly, authentic atmosphere of southern Italy.
In the afternoon, the experience comes full circle with a return to the enchanting Castle of Squillace, where a gala dinner will bring the journey to a memorable close. Surrounded by history and elegance, guests will savor refined Calabrian cuisine in a majestic setting—an evening of shared stories, flavors, and heartfelt farewells, celebrating the richness and spirit of this unforgettable land.
Day 8 – Departure and Arrivederci
After days filled with unforgettable experiences, flavors, and connections, it’s time to say goodbye—but not farewell. Guests will depart with hearts full of memories, new friendships, and a deeper connection to the soul of Calabria.
As you leave this land of beauty and tradition, we don’t say goodbye—we say “arrivederci”: until we meet again. Calabria will always be here to welcome you back, with open arms and the promise of more stories to live and savor.
