Isola di Capo Rizzuto and the Ionian coast: what to see near us
Beaches of the marine protected area, castles, villages and Magna Graecia sites, all a short drive away
From the town centre, where Residence Le Farfalle is located, we suggest beaches, villages and routes along the Ionian coast — with tips from people who live here
- Clear sea
- Magna Graecia
- Villages and local food
What's nearby
We are in the town centre, not on the seafront: you'll need a car (or a transfer) to reach the beaches. Approximate driving times without traffic.
Marine protected area beaches (Curmo, Cavallucci, Chiancolilli)
about 6 km • 10–15 min by car
Capo Rizzuto
about 7 km • 10–15 min by car
Le Castella
about 11 km • about 15 min by car
Capo Colonna
about 15 km • about 25 min by car
Soverato and the coast towards Catanzaro
Day trip • by car
Why the marine protected area is special
One of the largest marine protected areas in Italy: clear water, seabeds full of life, great snorkelling and diving. We are in the town centre, not on the seafront: the nearest beaches (Curmo, Cavallucci, Chiancolilli, towards Capo Rizzuto) are about 6 km away, 10–15 minutes by car. A natural treasure to enjoy and to respect.
Where we are
Via Capo delle Colonne, 88841 Isola di Capo Rizzuto (KR)
Places to visit
Beaches of the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area
One of the largest marine protected areas in Italy. Clear water and seabeds rich in marine life make it ideal for snorkelling and diving. You'll need a car from the town centre. Go early in the morning, when the sea is at its calmest and clearest.
Le Castella beaches
Golden sand and turquoise sea, with the Aragonese castle on its islet reflected in the water. Great for families, and the village has excellent fresh-fish restaurants.
Crotone old town
A city with thousands of years of history, from Magna Graecia to the present day. The National Archaeological Museum holds unique finds, and a stroll through the old streets feels like travelling back in time. Best visited in the afternoon, once the heat eases.
Capo Colonna Archaeological Park
Home to the temple of Hera Lacinia, one of the most important sanctuaries of Magna Graecia. Its single surviving column stands out against the sky, with the sea all around. Beautiful in the late-afternoon light and perfect for a half-day visit.
Soverato beach
Known as the “Pearl of the Ionian”, Soverato has a long, fine-sand beach with well-equipped beach clubs. Ideal if you want an easy, relaxing day; the seafront promenade is lovely for an evening stroll.
Sila National Park
The vast Sila plateau, with ancient forests, lakes and walking trails. Perfect for hiking; in summer it's pleasantly cool, with wide views. Allow a full day to explore the lakes and mountain villages.
Le Castella fishing village
A picturesque fishing village with traditional restaurants serving the day's catch, cafés and local craft shops. Authentic and full of flavour: ideal for dinner at sunset.
Valli Cupe nature reserve
Dramatic canyons, hidden waterfalls and trails through unspoilt nature. A must for hikers and photographers. The waterfalls are at their best in spring. Wear sturdy shoes and allow at least half a day.
Suggested itineraries
Half a day
Morning: Marine protected area beaches for snorkelling (about 6 km, 10–15 min by car)
Afternoon: Le Castella: beach and fishing village (about 11 km, about 15 min)
A relaxed mix of sea and culture
One day
Morning: Capo Colonna Archaeological Park (about 15 km, about 25 min)
Lunch: A traditional restaurant in Le Castella
Afternoon: Le Castella beach and village
Evening: Dinner in Crotone old town (about 18 km, 20–25 min)
History and the Calabrian sea in a single day
Two days
Day 1: Marine protected area, Le Castella, Crotone
Day 2: Sila National Park: day trip
Alternatively: a beach day in Soverato or a hike in the Valli Cupe
The full itinerary: sea, history and mountains
Experiences not to miss
Capo Colonna at sunset
The most atmospheric moment of the day: the column of the temple of Hera stands out against a colourful sky, with the sea all around. An unforgettable experience.
Best time: late afternoon in summer (check the park's opening hours)
Snorkelling in the marine protected area
The clear water of the marine protected area is perfect for watching underwater life. Bring a mask and discover a colourful world just a few metres from the shore.
Best time: early morning, when the sea is calm
Seafood dinner in Le Castella
The village restaurants serve fish caught the same day: pasta with clams, fried small fish (frittura di paranza), grilled octopus. Calabrian cooking at its best.
Tip: book for the evening, ideally with a sea view
Crotone Archaeological Museum
An outstanding collection of Magna Graecia finds that tells the story of this land. The gold diadem and the statues are true masterpieces. A must for history lovers.
Best time: afternoon, allow 2–3 hours
Practical tips from your hosts
When to go
- May–June: Ideal weather, fewer crowds, the sea is already pleasant
- July–August: High season, warm sea, busier beaches
- September: A great compromise: mild weather and fewer visitors
- October: Perfect for hiking and culture, and the sea is often still warm enough to swim
Getting around
- Car: Essential for the beaches and sights: we're in the town centre, not on the sea. Free parking is available nearby.
- Nearby coast: Marine protected area beaches (about 6 km), Capo Rizzuto (about 7 km), Le Castella (about 11 km): 10–15 minutes
- Half-day trips: Capo Colonna (about 15 km), Crotone (about 18 km): 20–25 minutes
- Full-day trips: Sila, Soverato, Valli Cupe: day trips by car
- Airports: Crotone (Sant'Anna) about 4.5 km (5–10 min); Lamezia Terme about 88 km (about 1 h 30 min)
Approximate road distances and driving times, without traffic.
Good to know
- Always bring sunscreen and a hat: the Calabrian sun is strong
- Book restaurants in Le Castella during high season
- Beaches are at their best early in the morning or late in the afternoon
- For the Sila, bring layers: it's cooler in the mountains
We're here to help
We're happy to help you plan your stay. Ask us about restaurants, lesser-known beaches and the best times to visit: we know the area well.
Message us on WhatsApp or by email for personal recommendations during your stay.
Isola di Capo Rizzuto: our home
Isola di Capo Rizzuto lies on the Ionian coast of Calabria, in the province of Crotone. It takes its name from the Capo Rizzuto headland, which juts out into the Ionian Sea and shapes a unique landscape that we are lucky to call home.
The area is known for its golden beaches, clear sea and the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area, one of the largest in Italy. Transparent water and seabeds full of life make it ideal for snorkelling and diving. We have lived here for years and still discover something new to share with our guests.
Beyond the sea, there are historic and archaeological sites such as the Capo Colonna Archaeological Park, with the temple of Hera Lacinia, and a hinterland of characterful villages and food traditions that are part of who we are.
The Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, makes Isola di Capo Rizzuto pleasant for much of the year. Summer is the season for the sea, while spring and autumn bring beautiful days, fewer crowds and ideal weather for exploring.
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