Zambrone
Discover the Province of Vibo Valentia
Welcome to the province of Vibo Valentia! This charming province, located in the Calabria region, has a lot to offer visitors. With its 50 municipalities and a surface area of 1139 km², the province has a population of around 150,000 inhabitants. Let's explore this province in detail!
Physical Geography
Territory
The territory of Vibo Valentia stretches from the Tyrrhenian Sea coast to the Serre mountains. Along the coast, you will encounter small local settlements with rural character, as well as urban centers such as Vibo Marina, with its characteristic port and industrial areas. One of the province's attractions is Lake Angitola, which offers a unique natural spectacle. Furthermore, off the coast of Capo Vaticano, an extinct volcano has been discovered.
Climate
The climate of the Province of Vibo Valentia is pleasant for most of the year. Along the coast, there is a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and average annual temperatures reaching 17-18°C. Along the coast, rainfall is abundant and frequent. At higher altitudes (from 150 m to 600 m), there is a Tyrrhenian Mediterranean climate with a little more continentality than the coastal strip. In this area, the winter is mild and very rainy, while the summer is hot and dry. From 600 to 1000 meters, there is a chestnut Apennine climate, with relatively cold winters and an average of 2-3 snowy events per year. The summer is hot, with temperatures rarely exceeding 30°C.
Attractions and Things to Do
Beaches
One of the main attractions of the province of Vibo Valentia is its beaches, characterized by crystal-clear waters and deserted beaches with white sand. The Scilla National Reserve, south of the province, has some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Furthermore, the beach of Tropea, located in the north of the province, is famous for its natural charm.
Food and Wine
The cuisine of Calabria is famous all over the world for its authenticity and intense flavors. The province of Vibo Valentia has a rich culinary tradition based on the use of local and seasonal products such as chili peppers, olive oil, olives, pecorino cheese, and wine. Make sure to try the caciocavallo podolico, a delicious hard cheese. As for wine, the Greco di Bianco is one of the most famous in the region.
Excursions
The province of Vibo Valentia offers many opportunities for hiking or cycling. Among the most interesting areas to explore, the Marmarico waterfalls, located in San Nicola da Crissa, offer a breathtaking view of the region's unspoiled nature. The top of Mount Poro, in the municipality of Briatico, is another popular destination for hiking.
Cultural Heritage
The province of Vibo Valentia has many cities and villages worth visiting. Tropea, one of the most visited cities, is famous for its well-preserved historic center and beautiful beaches. In Tropea, you can also visit the house-museum of Raffaele Lauro, which exhibits pieces of art and design objects. In Pizzo Calabro, you can visit the Aragonese Castle, an ancient fortress overlooking the sea.
Conclusions
The province of Vibo Valentia is a perfect destination for those looking for a holiday away from mass tourism, where they can enjoy beautiful beaches, explore unspoiled nature, savor delicious food, and get to know the local culture. There are many ways to discover this province, from cultural visits to hiking, all you need is a little time and curiosity!
