Deep in Calabria, Southern Italy, perched on the Tyrrhenian Sea on a stretch of coastline known as the Coast of the Gods, lies the small but charming town of Tropea.
Boasting two and a half miles of pristine white sandy beaches, cliffs and coves, Tropea offers some of the most dramatic views in southwest Italy.
Set high on a rocky promontory is a 6th-century Benedictine monastery called the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’ Isola. Starting at the beach near the Piazzetta del Canone are around 300 steps which form a staircase sculpted out of rock from around 1810 that lead up to the church’s pristine façade.
With incredible views to Sicily’s Aeolian Islands, Tropea is one of the most fascinating regions in the toe of the Italian boot.
Where to stay:
Villa Paola, formerly a beautiful 16th-century convent, is a hotel situated just a short distance from the harbour and centre of Tropea. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the property has a number of stunning terraces and features a large infinity pool with a spectacular view of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Villa Paola offers a variety of deluxe suites, including The Eremita Suite, a three-bedroom villa complete with an elegant interior of wooden beans, terracotta floors, and your own private Turkish bath. The De’ Minimi restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with an innovative modern twist, offering guests a unique dining experience.
Getting there:
Located in Calabria, Lamezia Terme International Airport (SUF/LICA) is the closest airport to Tropea. A transfer from the airport takes approximately 55 minutes by car.
Approximate flight times:
| Dubai ✈ Lamezia Terme | 5 hours 30 minutes |
| London ✈ Lamezia Terme | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| New York ✈ Lamezia Terme | 9 hours 0 minutes |
| Paris ✈ Lamezia Terme | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Singapore ✈ Lamezia Terme | 13 hours 0 minutes |
| Zurich ✈ Lamezia Terme | 1 hour 45 minutes |
