A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Amantea: A Hidden Treasure on the Coast of Calabria, Italy

Place Description

Amantea is a charming coastal town located in the Calabria region of southern Italy. With its rich history, impressive architecture, and panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Amantea is a tourist destination that offers a unique experience to its visitors.

Tourist Interest

Amantea is known for its old town, a labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets winding up to the top of a hill where the Amantea Castle is located. This medieval castle offers stunning views of the city and the sea and stands as a testament to the region's rich history.

The town also houses several historic churches, such as the Church of San Bernardino, dating back to the 15th century, and the Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, which features an impressive bell tower and 17th-century frescoes.

In addition to its historical heritage, Amantea is also famous for its beautiful beaches. Coreca Beach, in particular, is very popular among tourists for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It is also an ideal spot for water sports such as diving and snorkeling.

Surroundings

The surroundings of Amantea also have much to offer. A short drive away is the Sila National Park, a vast area of mountains and forests where visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and bird watching.

Furthermore, the Calabria region is renowned for its cuisine, and Amantea is no exception. Visitors can savor local dishes such as 'nduja, a spicy sausage, and cedar, a citrus fruit typical of the region. There are also numerous wineries in the area where one can taste local wine.

In summary, Amantea is a tourist destination that combines history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic experience in southern Italy.

Gastronomic Products of Amantea

Fileja

Fileja is a traditional pasta from the Calabria region and is especially popular in Amantea. This pasta is hand-rolled and cooked with a variety of sauces, although the most common is tomato sauce with pork meat and grated pecorino cheese.
Nduja

Nduja is a spicy sausage originating from Calabria. It is made with pork meat, pork fat, spicy red peppers, and salt. It is very versatile and can be spread on bread, added to pasta, or used to season other dishes.
Vino Ciro

Calabria is known for its wine production, and Amantea is no exception. Vino Ciro is one of the most famous wines of the region. This red wine is made from the Gaglioppo grape and has a robust, earthy flavor.
Tartufo di Pizzo

Although Tartufo di Pizzo originates from the city of Pizzo, it can also be enjoyed in Amantea. This dessert is a truffle ice cream filled with melted chocolate and covered with cocoa powder or chopped nuts. It is a treat not to be missed.

Featured Gastronomic Spots in Amantea

Amantea, in the Calabria region of Italy, is a place with a rich culinary tradition. Here, you can find everything from fine dining restaurants to traditional taverns. Below, we present some of the most outstanding ones:

Ristorante La Tavernetta

Located in the heart of Amantea, Ristorante La Tavernetta is famous for its authentic Calabrian cuisine. Here you can enjoy traditional dishes such as pasta with 'nduja, grilled swordfish, and eggplant parmigiana. The atmosphere is cozy, and the service is friendly, making this place a perfect choice for an unforgettable meal.

Trattoria Pizzeria Da Nicola

If you're looking for a charming place with good prices, Trattoria Pizzeria Da Nicola is an excellent option. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of pizzas and typical Calabrian dishes, such as pasta with tomato sauce and salted ricotta. Moreover, its extensive wine list will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of Italian wines.

Osteria dei Vini

Osteria dei Vini is a place you cannot miss if you're in Amantea. This restaurant offers a great variety of Calabrian cuisine, such as pasta with tomato and caper sauce, and seafood risotto. Additionally, it boasts a wide selection of local wines to accompany your meals.

Il Vecchio e Il Mare

This restaurant, whose name translates to "The Old Man and the Sea," is famous for its fish and seafood dishes. Here, you can savor delicious plates such as grilled octopus, steamed mussels, and pasta with clams. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the sea view makes this place a perfect choice for a romantic dinner.

Sports Activities in Amantea

Hiking

Amantea, located in the Calabria region, offers stunning hiking trails. You can explore the Sila National Park and enjoy panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Diving

The Tyrrhenian Sea, which washes the shores of Amantea, is an ideal place for diving. You can explore marine life and enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.

Cycling

Amantea offers cycling routes that will allow you to discover the beauty of the Calabria region. You can rent a bicycle and explore the city and its surroundings.

Sail

If you like sailing, Amantea is the perfect place for you. You can rent a boat and sail across the Tyrrhenian Sea, enjoying the sea breeze and the stunning coastal views.

Nearby Places to Amantea

If you're in Amantea and want to explore a bit more, here are some nearby towns and cities that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Tropea

Tropea, Italy, is an impressive tourist destination known for its dreamy beaches and historic architecture. Its cuisine stands out, especially the Tropea red onion and artisanal gelato, delighting visitors with authentic and fresh flavors.

Cosenza

Cosenza, Italy, is a hidden gem filled with history, art, and culture. Visitors can enjoy its medieval architecture, fascinating museums, and a vibrant culinary scene offering delicious Calabrian cuisine.