Calabria: The Ultimate Adventure
Calabria, the rugged toe of Italy’s boot, is a hidden gem for adventure holidays. Offering a mix of stunning coastlines, wild mountains, and thrilling activities.
It can be a headache getting around though, as public transport is unreliable for the remote areas. So renting a car is recommended for accessing trailheads and secluded beaches. There are rental offices situated, with availability at Lamezia Terme, Reggio Calabria, and Crotone airports.
Once you have settled on the type of Adventure Activities that you want, finding the right one is not hard in Calabria.
Try Rafting and Kayaking through the dramatic gorges of the Lao River at Pollino National Park, the ultimate white-water experience. Operators offer two types, full-day trips (6 hours with a lunch break) or shorter.
Also there’s two hour adventures, which is suitable for families and first-timers.
The wild scenery, with its crystal waters and lush surroundings, is a highlight of the trip. With photos and videos often included for a fee. The heady mix of adrenaline and breathtaking landscapes, like cascading waterfalls, makes this a must-do.
Hking in Pollino National Park, Northern Calabria, which is shared with Basilicata. Trek through forested trails, limestone peaks, and alpine meadows. Spot rare wildlife like black squirrels and ancient Loricato pines. These trails range from beginner-friendly to challenging, with guided options available.
A standout journey is a hike to Civita, an Albanian-rooted village with exquisite cultural charm. It’s free to hike independently, or you can take guided treks. Spring and summer offer the best scenery. The park’s untouched beauty and diverse trails cater to all levels, with epic views of the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas.
Boat Tours and Snorkeling along the Costa degli Dei, around the Tropea to Capo Vaticano. Explore hidden coves, sea caves, and crystal waters by boat. Operators offer small-groups or private tours (3-4 hours) with snorkelling stops at places like the Grotta Azzurra and Praja di Fuoco.
Self-drive boat rentals are also available for a thrilling DIY adventure. Some Tours are guided and start per person; however the self-drive rentals can be had for 4 hours at a time.
Aperitifs with local wines are often included in these tours. Once you get to the turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, that rival the Caribbean, with snorkelling revealing a vibrant marine life.
Much of all this is suitable for kids and adults alike. Because it combines heart-pounding fun with stunning natural surroundings, perfect for a group outing.
Quad Biking at Capo Vaticano, Tropea, and Monte Poro is a treat not to be missed. Embark on guided quad tours through rugged trails, passing cliffs, beaches, and panoramic viewpoints.
These tours are perfect for exploring Calabria’s diverse terrain at high speed, with stops at secluded spots.
