Reggio Calabria and Costa Viola

Reggio Calabria is Calabria’s largest city. It is located on the extreme foothill of the Aspromonte and on the east coast of the Messina straits. The old Chalkis colony founded in the 8th century BC flourished not only during the Magna Graecia era, but also during the Roman and Byzantine period. It lost many signs of its glorious past following the construction of new buildings and terrible earthquakes. But the Aragon castle, the church of the Ottimati, the wonderful Dome and the small museum of St. Paolo are still there. One of the main attractions is the National Archaeological Museum that hosts the famous Riace Bronzes as well as an array of archaeological findings and artistic objects from prehistory and ancient history, together with works of art and masterpieces from the Middle Ages and modern times.

Then we head to Scilla, a picturesque fishermen village, which had already been described by Homer in the Odyssey. Countless legends exist about its sea monster Scylla. This village has the shape of an Amphitheater and surrounds the bays of Chianalea and Marina Grande. The enchanting fishermen neighborhood of Chianalea fascinates with its narrow streets, the walls decorated with plants and the small houses, some of them standing right in front of the sea. Scilla is also known for its traditional sword fishing in the waters facing the Messina straits.

On your way back you will stop in the historical city of St. Elia. On good weather conditions, from the Monte S. Elia you can enjoy a wonderful view on the entire Calabria coast up to Capo Vaticano in one direction and to Sicily in the other direction.

Full-day – Duration Approx. 7 hours