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the coast of gods

Francesco Staiano from DMC Privilege Italia makes a convincing argument as to why “The Coast of the Gods” has the best beaches in all of Italy. 

What makes it so special in this region?
Forget the popular and well–known Italian beaches in Sicily or Tuscany: the beaches of Calabria are Italy’s true hidden gems. The Costa degli Dei – or “Coast of the Gods” – is the name given to the Calabrian coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea in the south of Italy. There are plenty of beautiful resorts along the coast, including Zambrone, Vaticano, and Nicotera. However, my favorite is Tropea, a small town on a promontory jutting into the sea, it has visions similar to a Caribbean Island with white, powdery sand slipping into crystal blue waters. 

When is the best time to visit? 
Since this is a swimming destination, a visit in summertime is recommended. But not in August! August is the season for Italian holidays, and the town and beach become too busy with Italians. 

Do you have any particular or special related memories?
I was born and raised in Capri, and I usually spent my holidays on the island. One year, my parents decided to spend a week in Calabria, and when they told me I was disappointed. Once  we arrived in Calabria, I  immediately changed my mind: I was used to the rocky beaches of Capri, but that white sand and crystal-clear water looked like a lot of fun!

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OUTDOORS INSIDER
Gaiola underwater nature reserve

Privilege Italia’s Francesco Staiano sneaks us into the Gaiola underwater nature reserve.

What makes it so special? 
Situated between the picturesque fishing village of Marechiaro and the bay of Trentaremi, the Gaiola underwater nature reserve takes its name from the two islets that lie opposite the Neapolitan coast of Posillipo. The reserve is famous thanks to its winning combination of historical, archaeological, biological and volcanological features. The marine life, together with the seabed and the archaeological ruins, makes a visit to the reserve a unique and captivating experience. 

When is the best time to visit?  
The best time to enjoy the park is definitely in the summer. Since it is a marine reserve, it is not possible to arrive by (motor) boat. So paddle in by kayak, it’s particularly stunning at sunset – or at midnight under the glow of a full moon!

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Outdoors Insider
Campo Imperatore

Francesco Staiano of luxury DMC Privilege Italia tells us about the plateau of Campo Imperatore, an expansive natural wonderland for lovers of the outdoors.

What makes the Campo Imperatore so special in this region?
Campo Imperatore, or ‘Emperor’s Field’ in English, is one of the wonders of the Abruzzo region. Sometimes called “little Tibet,” it is a plain at an elevation of nearly 1,800 meters with gentle slopes formed by the slow disappearance of glaciers. From here, it’s possible to spot Gran Sasso – the “Roof of the Apennines” and Abruzzo’s mountain par excellence, dominated by the Corno Grande. The Campo Imperatore plateau is the largest in Italy, stretching longer than 20 kilometers, with its endless pastures used for the summer pasture of herds and flocks, generation after generation. And with a bountiful and particular flora, fauna, and geology, it represents a fundamental part of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park.

When is the best time to visit?
While the wintertime offers beautiful skiing trails on the plain, the best season to enjoy it is spring or early summer by bike — or even better, on horseback!

What role does nature play in the culture and economy of the region?
The Abruzzo region notably has fewer large, cultural cities when compared to other regions in Italy, but makes up for it with its natural landscape and outdoor activities. From skiing slopes to hiking trails, nature in Abruzzo plays a key role in the tourism and economy of the region.

For more information about Privilege Italia, click here.