Parghelia
A tour of the Vibo Valentia province
If you're looking for a lesser-known place to visit in Italy that has many cultural and natural attractions, don't miss the province of Vibo Valentia. With its 50 municipalities and a population of almost 150,000 inhabitants, this province in the far south of Calabria will enchant you with its wonders.
Physical geography
The Vibo Valentia province extends from the Serre Mountains to the Tyrrhenian Sea coast. One of the most beautiful and characteristic places in this area is Lake Angitola. Recently, an extinct volcano has been discovered off the coast of Capo Vaticano. Along the coast, the urban center of Vibo Marina extends, where you can admire the harbor and the industrial areas behind the port.
The climate of the Vibo Valentia province
The climate varies depending on the zones. Along the coast, there is a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and very few snowfalls. Rains are abundant and frequent in the area between Vibo Marina and the Angitola river mouth. Summers are torrid. From 150 to 600 meters, there is a Tyrrhenian Mediterranean climate with a slightly more evident continentality than the coastal strip. Winter is not very cold and very rainy, with temperatures that can sometimes drop below zero. From 600 to 1000 meters, there is a chestnut Apennine climate, with relatively cold winters, and snow that can be present two or three times a year.
Places to visit
There are several places to visit in the Vibo Valentia province. The historical center of Vibo Valentia, in particular, is very interesting to visit for its architecture. A visit to the castle of Pizzo Calabro is mandatory if you want to admire a breathtaking view of the sea that extends beneath you. Tropea, also known as the "Pearl of the Tyrrhenian," is a seaside resort famous for its sandy beaches and the characteristic old town. Don't miss the chance to visit Capo Vaticano, a rocky promontory overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea that, thanks to its elevated position, offers a breathtaking panorama.
What to eat
You've probably heard of "nduja," a specialty of Calabria, but in the Vibo Valentia province, there are also other delicacies. Among these, don't miss the "baccalà frittella," the eggplant mushroom-style, the "pignolata," and the "mostaccioli." Finally, you can't leave the province without trying the "tartufo di Pizzo," a chocolate ice cream filled with chocolate cream.
How to get there
You can reach the Vibo Valentia province in various ways. The Lamezia Terme airport is about 40 kilometers from the city of Vibo Valentia. From the main Italian cities, you can take a train that arrives at the Vibo Valentia-Pizzo station. If you're driving, the province is reachable via the A3 Salerno-Reggio Calabria highway.
Conclusions
In summary, the Vibo Valentia province can offer a lot to anyone who wants to discover the beauty of lesser-known Italy. With its municipalities scattered between mountains and coasts, made of white beaches and cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the area is perfect for tourists seeking cultural and natural adventures. Try its cuisine, and you will undoubtedly leave a piece of your heart in this splendid area of Calabria.
