Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive

The Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive is an unforgettable road trip that starts in the city of Crotone in Italy and ends in Crucoli, also in Italy. Along the route, you will pass through the towns of Santa Severina and Strongoli, both of which offer a variety of attractions to explore. The entire drive is 111km and can be completed in one day. The best time of year to take the drive is during the spring or summer, when the roads are in good condition and the scenery is at its best. The route is partly curvy and partly narrow, making it suitable for every driver. With a fair budget, this road trip can provide an unforgettable experience and lasting memories.

Crotone is an ideal starting point for the Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive. Located on the Ionian Sea in the south of Italy, Crotone is a beautiful city with plenty of sights and attractions to explore. The city is home to some of the most impressive ancient ruins in the region, including the remains of the Temple of Hera Lacinia and the old castle of Charles V. The nearby beach of Torre Colimena is a great place to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea. For international travelers, the closest international airport is Lamezia Terme Airport (SUF). Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip in Crotone. From there, you can make your way along the coast and explore all that the Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive has to offer. With stunning views of the mountains and sea, you'll be sure to find plenty of photo opportunities. Along the way, you'll find plenty of charming villages and towns to explore, so take your time and enjoy the journey.

Embark on a road trip from Crotone to Santa Severina and discover the beauty of Calabria! The journey is only 32 km long and should take less than an hour to complete. Enjoy the winding roads and the narrow sections of the route, as well as the breathtaking scenery. As you drive, be sure to take in the views of the rolling hills and the lush vegetation. Once you reach Santa Severina, you can explore the old cobblestone streets and the historical monuments. Don't miss the chance to visit the Castle of Santa Severina, the Church of Santa Maria della Rocca, and the Church of San Domenico. You can also take a stroll along the banks of the river Lao and admire the beauty of the Calabrian countryside. This is just one of the many stages of your journey. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on an incredible road trip from Santa Severina to Strongoli! This 28km drive takes less than an hour and offers some of the most breathtaking views. As you drive, you'll find yourself winding through narrow roads and taking in the stunning scenery. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the spectacular views. In Santa Severina, be sure to check out the historic Castle of Santa Severina and the Church of San Nicola. In Strongoli, visit the Church of Santa Maria di Porto Salvo and the Castle of Strongoli. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from Santa Severina to Strongoli!

Embark on a scenic 51 km road trip from Strongoli to Crucoli and discover the most interesting places along the way. The drive will take you fewer than 3 hours and you'll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the Calabrian countryside. As you drive, you'll notice the road is winding in some sections and narrow in others, so take care and enjoy the journey. Start your adventure in Strongoli and visit the Chiesa Madre di San Nicola, an ancient church built in the 17th century. Then, drive to the nearby town of Santa Caterina dello Ionio, where you can explore the ruins of the castle of the same name, dating back to the 12th century. Continue your journey and stop in Isca sullo Ionio, a small town on the Ionian Sea. Here, you can admire the beauty of the waterfront, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy some delicious local cuisine. On the way to Crucoli, make sure to check out the medieval castle in Cirò Marina. Finally, arrive in Crucoli and explore the ancient ruins of the castle of the same name. The castle is believed to have been built in the 12th century and is a must-see for any history enthusiast. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip!

Crucoli, in the southern Italian region of Calabria, is the perfect end point to the Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive. This small town, located in the Gulf of Sant’ Eufemia, is surrounded by lush green hills and the Ionian Sea, offering spectacular views. Crucoli is home to a number of interesting attractions and activities. Visitors can explore the nearby Torre di Crucoli, a 16th century watchtower that offers a stunning view of the town and the sea. The Museo della Civilta Contadina di Crucoli is a museum that showcases the traditional culture of Crucoli. Here visitors can learn about the town’s history, as well as enjoy the beautiful art and artifacts from the past. The nearby beach of Spiaggia di Crucoli is a great place to spend a day in the sun. The beach offers crystal-clear waters and plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area, offering delicious local dishes. For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Lamezia Terme Airport (SUF). From there, it’s a short drive to Crucoli. For those traveling by car, the Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive is the perfect way to reach Crucoli and explore the area. Crucoli is the perfect end point to the Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive. With its beautiful views, interesting attractions and activities, and delicious local cuisine, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable road trip.

Before you set off

Embark on an enchanting 111km journey along the Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive, which takes you from the coastal city of Crotone to the picturesque town of Crucoli, Italy. This Road Trip is a tapestry of breathtaking coastal views, rolling hills, and historical richness interwoven with the charm of Italian towns and villages.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The drive presents a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks. Notably, Santa Severina stands out with its Byzantine castle perched atop a hill, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding valley and the Neto river. Strongoli, another gem along the route, invites travelers to explore its ancient ruins and sample exquisite local wines, a testament to the region's rich viticulture.

In addition to the historical towns, the route is dotted with olive groves and vineyards, making it a gastronomic adventure for those interested in tasting authentic Calabrian cuisine and olive oil. The drive also offers access to serene beaches and coastal spots perfect for a refreshing dip in the Ionian Sea.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal period for driving the Calabria East Coast is between late spring and early autumn, with May through September offering ideal weather conditions for Road Tripping. These months not only promise comfortable temperatures for exploration but also the chance to partake in local festivals and events showcasing Calabria's vibrant culture.

Potential Risks:

While the journey is accessible to most drivers, caution is advised on certain stretches where the Road may become winding and somewhat narrow, particularly through the Serre Calabresi mountains. It's recommended to drive during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and ensure a safer driving experience.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This Scenic Drive is not only visually rewarding but also time-efficient and budget-friendly. Intrepid travelers can easily complete the Trip in one day, though many choose to extend their adventure by stopping overnight in one of the charming coastal towns. The route is also known for the `Mirto,` a local myrtle berry liquor, and the `Cirò` wine, both of which are must-tries for connoisseurs.

A good choice for:

Combining historical intrigue with the allure of the Italian coastline, the Calabria East Coast Scenic Drive is a captivating experience for those who appreciate the confluence of nature and culture. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone looking to delve into the Italian way of life, this journey promises a memorable and scenic exploration of one of Italy's lesser-known regions.