A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Capo Vaticano: A Hidden Paradise in Calabria, Italy

Located in the Calabria region in southern Italy, Capo Vaticano is a stunning white granite promontory rising above the Tyrrhenian Sea. This hidden paradise is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views, beautiful beaches, and rich history and culture.

Beaches of Capo Vaticano

Capo Vaticano is renowned for its stunning beaches, considered among the most beautiful in Italy. Grotticelle Beach, for example, is famous for its white sand and crystal-clear waters. Other popular beaches include Tono, Santa Maria, and Praia i Focu, each with its own unique charm and beauty.

The Capo Vaticano Lighthouse

One of the most notable points of interest in Capo Vaticano is its lighthouse, located at the highest point of the promontory. From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Aeolian Islands. The lighthouse is also a popular spot to watch the sunset.

Calabrian Cuisine

The Calabria region is famous for its rich cuisine, and Capo Vaticano is no exception. Visitors can enjoy local dishes such as 'nduja, a spicy sausage, and pecorino del Poro, a sheep cheese. There are also many seafood restaurants in the area.

Excursions from Capo Vaticano

Capo Vaticano is also an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of Calabria. Visitors can take trips to the nearby town of Tropea, known for its stunning architecture and unique red onion. Other popular excursions include the city of Reggio Calabria, with its impressive archaeological museum, and the Aspromonte National Park.

Outdoor Activities

In addition to its beaches and cuisine, Capo Vaticano also offers plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and diving in the area. There are also several local companies offering boat trips to the Aeolian Islands and along the Calabrian coast.

In short, Capo Vaticano is a tourist destination that offers something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and delicious cuisine, it is a place not to be missed on any visit to Calabria.

Gastronomic Products of Capo Vaticano

Peperoncino

Capo Vaticano is famous for its production of peperoncino, a type of spicy pepper that is an essential ingredient in Calabrian cuisine. The peperoncinos from Capo Vaticano are known for their intense and spicy flavor, and they are used in a variety of dishes, from pasta and pizza to sauces and oils.
Red Onion of Tropea

The red onion of Tropea, a variety of sweet onion grown in the Calabria region, is another outstanding gastronomic product of Capo Vaticano. These onions are prized for their sweet and mild flavor and are used both raw in salads and cooked in a variety of dishes.
Nduja

Nduja is a type of spicy sausage that is an emblematic product of the Calabria region. Made with pork meat, pork fat, and peperoncino, Nduja is known for its spicy flavor and spreadable texture. It can be spread on bread, added to pasta, or used to season other dishes.
Calabrian Wine

Capo Vaticano is also known for its wine production. The Calabria region produces a variety of wines, both red and white, which are appreciated for their flavor and quality. The region's wines are often served alongside local dishes, complementing the flavors of the food.

Outstanding Gastronomic Spots in Capo Vaticano

Capo Vaticano, in the Calabria region of Italy, is a culinary destination offering a wide variety of flavors and experiences. From fine dining restaurants to traditional taverns, here are some of the most outstanding places:

Ristorante Pizzeria Da Antonio

Located in the heart of Capo Vaticano, Ristorante Pizzeria Da Antonio is famous for its authentic Italian pizza and excellent Calabrian cuisine. Here, you can enjoy traditional dishes such as 'nduja, a spicy sausage typical of the region, and pizza with buffalo mozzarella. The atmosphere is cozy, and the service is friendly, making this place a perfect choice for an unforgettable meal.

Trattoria Da Mario

Trattoria Da Mario is a charming and reasonably priced spot. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of typical Calabrian dishes, such as pasta with tomato and basil sauce and the fresh catch of the day. Additionally, its extensive wine list allows you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of Italian wines.

Il Vecchio e Il Mare

If you're looking for a unique culinary experience, Il Vecchio e Il Mare is the place for you. This restaurant offers an impressive view of the sea and cuisine that combines traditional Calabrian flavors with a modern twist. Here, you can savor dishes such as seafood risotto and homemade tiramisu while enjoying the beautiful view.

La Bussola

La Bussola is a traditional tavern offering an authentic Calabrian culinary experience. Here, you can enjoy dishes such as pasta alla norma, with eggplant and salted ricotta, and grilled swordfish. The atmosphere is rustic and cozy, and the service is friendly and attentive.

Sports Activities in Capo Vaticano

Diving

Capo Vaticano is famous for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. Tourists can enjoy exciting dives and explore the underwater world of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Hiking

The Capo Vaticano region offers numerous hiking trails that allow visitors to discover the natural beauty of Calabria. The paths pass through forests, hills, and beaches, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent way to explore Capo Vaticano and its surroundings. Tourists can rent bicycles and ride along the coast, visit small villages, and enjoy the beautiful nature of the region.

Sail

The Tyrrhenian Sea is an ideal place for sailing. Tourists can rent a sailboat and enjoy a day at sea, admiring the coast of Capo Vaticano from a different perspective.

Nearby Places to Capo Vaticano

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

Tropea

Tropea, Italy, is a must-visit tourist destination, famous for its dreamy beaches, historic architecture, and unique red onion. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Scilla

Scilla, in Italy, is a charming tourist destination known for its impressive castle, dreamy beaches, and picturesque streets. Its gastronomy stands out, with delicious dishes of fresh seafood, local wines, and the traditional Calabrian 'nduja.