TRAVEL TO CALABRIA WITH ME

 
 

Join me To Calabria From June 16th to June 24th!

Enjoy eight-day journey full of adventure, beautiful sunsets, delicious food, a full immersion vacation in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

An immersive culinary journey through Calabria’s traditions and creative soul:

I grew up in the north, but i spent my summers in Bagnara Calabra with my Aunt Assunta, who first taught me the joy of Calabrian food and the importance of cooking with love and simplicity — lessons that continue to inspiring my cuisine today. 

Over these three unforgettable days at the festival, the air fills with aromas and creativity as Michelin-starred chefs, culinary influencers, local producers, and artisans come together to celebrate Calabria’s unique identity. The experience will culminate in a magical Gala Dinner inside the historic Castle of Squillace, honoring the region’s heritage and heartfelt hospitality under the stars.

DAY 1
Welcome to Calabria - Arrival 

Arrival  and accommodation at the Hotel Le Dune with a Welcome Drink and briefing. With it's elegant and refined environemnts, the pool, gardens and private pine forest by the sea, combined with the professsonalism of the staff, Hotel Le Dune Di Giovino will emmerse you into a captivating sensory jounrey. Followed by dinnner and overnight stay within the hotel.

DAY 2
Women of Tradition: Among the Olive Groves of Tiriolo

Today, you’ll meet two inspiring Calabrian women, whose passion keeps their family traditions alive. After checking out of your hotel, you’ll travel south to Tiriolo, a hilltop village where the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas can both be seen glimmering in the distance.Your first encounter is with Lucia, whose family has been perfecting the art of olive oil for generations. On her charming farm, where olive groves meet a small dairy, she’ll share how they cultivate, harvest, and produce their award-winning extra virgin olive oil—a true expression of Calabria’s sustainable heritage. You’ll also learn how to recognize and taste genuine, high-quality olive oil before enjoying a picnic among the trees, paired with local cheeses, cured meats, fresh bread, and seasonal specialties—all kissed by Lucia’s golden oil. In the afternoon, you’ll meet Mirella, another remarkable entrepreneur from Tiriolo, who carries forward her family’s weaving tradition. Working by hand at her loom, she creates exquisite textiles—true “icons of Calabrian tradition”—that reflect the region’s artistry, patience, and soul. Surrounded by the beauty of the landscape and the stories of these two women, today’s experience celebrates the strength, creativity, and heart of Calabria.

DAY 3
Cantine Librandi - The Soul of Calabrian Wine 

After breakfast, your day is dedicated to an Experiential Wine Tour at Librandi Cellars, one of Calabria’s most celebrated wine estates. Nestled among rolling vineyards and warmly hosted by the Librandi family, you’ll uncover the secrets behind their time-honored winemaking tradition. Your visit begins with a guided tour of the cellar, where you’ll follow the journey from vine to bottle, discovering the craftsmanship that defines each vintage. The experience continues with a tasting of Calabria’s native wines—from the refined Gaglioppo to the aromatic Greco di Bianco—each paired with stories that reveal the deep connection between the region’s history, culture, and land. In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy your first hands-on cooking class with Chef Silvia Barban and the estate’s resident chef. Together, you’ll prepare traditional Calabrian dishes using fresh, local ingredients—and, of course, a touch of the estate’s own olive oil and wine.  It’s a delicious way to connect with Calabria’s culinary heritage, guided by the passion and creativity of two exceptional chefs. An unforgettable day that will delight your senses and immerse you in the authentic flavors and spirit of Calabria.

DAY 4
Flavors, Markets C Seaside Leisure in Soverato 

Start your day with a rich and relaxing breakfast at the hotel, enjoying a variety of local products and fresh delights. In the morning, explore the lively typical market of Soverato, where locals gather to shop for seasonal produce, traditional foods, and handcrafted goods. It's a vibrant and authentic way to experience Calabrian culture up close. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy Soverato at your own pace : relax on the beach, do some shopping, or take part in optional seaside fitness activities, such as beach walking or light exercise in the sea. In the late afternoon, return to your room to freshen up and change. As the sun begins to set, we’ll gather for an elegant dinner at Blu70, an unforgettable venue nestled among the rocks with a breathtaking view over the Gulf of Squillace. Expect refined cuisine, a magical atmosphere, and a beautiful final memory by the sea. After dinner, return to the hotel.

DAY 5
A Taste of Calabria's Heartland and Calabria Food Fest II Edition

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set out for a visit to a charming family-run farm, nestled among the rolling Calabrian hills. Here, you’ll witness the traditional art of ricotta-making, a time-honored craft passed down through generations.  Experience a truly special moment as you taste fresh, warm ricotta, served just after it’s made — a simple yet unforgettable pleasure that embodies the authenticity of rural life. We’ll then enjoy a rustic, heartfelt lunch, lovingly prepared with zero-kilometer ingredients, all grown or raised right on the farm — a celebration of pure flavors and genuine hospitality. To crown this experience, our Chef Silvia Barban will delight us with the creation of a homemade dessert featuring ricotta, a refined expression of local tradition elevated by her signature creativity and contemporary touch. At 7:00 PM, we’ll travel to the Castello di Squillace to take part in the Second Edition of the Calabria Food Fest - an exclusive, invitation-only event celebrating the region’s gastronomic excellence. You’ll enjoy live show-cooking by renowned chefs, tastings of traditional Calabrian products, and a festive atmosphere within the castle’s stunning historic setting. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the true spirit of Calabria through its food, culture, and warm hospitality.

DAY 6
Calabria Food Fest - Gala Dinner 

The morning is yours to enjoy at your own pace — whether you prefer lounging on the beach, taking a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear Ionian Sea, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun. It’s the perfect way to relax, recharge, and reflect on the journey so far. Lunch is at your leisure, giving you the freedom to explore local flavors on your own or enjoy a light, casual meal by the sea. We’re happy to recommend the best spots based on your cravings. In the afternoon, we return to the hotel to rest and get ready for the grand finale of our trip: the Gala Dinner at the Castello di Squillace, the culminating moment of the Calabria Food Fest – Second Edition. At 7:00 PM, we’ll depart for the castle, where an unforgettable evening awaits — with exceptional food, fine wines, and a festive, elegant atmosphere shared among new friends. Surrounded by centuries of history and overlooking the Ionian coast, we’ll toast to the memories made and the incredible flavors of Calabria — closing this adventure in true style.

DAY 7
Reggio Calabria - Scilla  

After breakfast, transfer to Reggio Calabria. You’ll begin your journey along what Gabriele D’Annunzio once called “the most beautiful kilometer in Italy.” Enjoy a guided tour of the city, exploring its elegant seafront and the National Archaeological Museum, home to the legendary Riace Bronzes — magnificent masterpieces of ancient Greek art that embody the spirit of Calabria’s history and culture. After the visit, head to Scilla, one of the region’s most picturesque seaside towns, for a light lunch featuring the area’s signature dish — the famous swordfish sandwich — in a lovely local restaurant overlooking the sea. Local dinner in Bagnara Calabra at the famous restaurant kerchila . Hotel accommodation and overnight stay.

DAY 8
A Day in Bagnara - The Art of the Sea

Today’s experience unfolds in Bagnara Calabra, a seaside town renowned for its deep connection to the sea and the ancient art of swordfish fishing. In the morning, you’ll set sail aboard a traditional passerella—the distinctive, narrow fishing boat used by local fishermen for generations. As you glide across the sparkling Tyrrhenian waters, you’ll witness firsthand the skill, patience, and courage behind this centuries-old craft (Boat excursions are subject to favorable sea conditions). After returning to shore, the afternoon is devoted to an experiential cooking class led by Chef Silvia Barban, together with a local woman from Bagnara who will share her treasured family recipe for tuna meatballs, one of the town’s most beloved specialties. Under their guidance, you’ll explore the authentic flavors of Calabria, blending local ingredients, tradition, and creativity. As the scent of the sea mingles with that of your freshly prepared meal, you’ll savor not only the taste of Bagnara but also its soul—a celebration of heritage, community, and the enduring rhythm of life by the sea.

DAY 9
Departure

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a transfer to the airport for departure. 

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