A Southern Italian Adventure – Marina di Camerota, Scalea and Santa Domenica

The next leg of our Italy 2025 journey took us through three fabulous southern destinations - Marina di Camerota in Campania, Scalea in Calabria, and Santa Domenica near Tropea in Calabria. It’s been two weeks of rustic charm, sun-soaked beaches, and truly local experiences.

Marina di Camerota, Campania

We began in the charming village of Marina di Camerota, a last-minute choice that proved a gem. A local holiday spot for visitors from Milan and Rome, plus German tourists, it buzzes with the daily passeggiata. We spent our days at the Lido, choosing from a dozen beach clubs. Navigating a tunnel to reach the beach saved us parking fees – a bit scary at times but all was fine! 

Dining was a highlight. We enjoyed meals at Ammore e Mare, La Cantina del Marchese, and Ristorante Brera l'Orto del Mare. For aperitivo, San Domingo Lounge Bar was our favourite, especially with a 20% hotel voucher.

Our accommodation, booked via Booking.com, was modern with free parking but a bit out of town. Walking to the village felt unsafe due to speeding cars, so we drove, paying €1-2 per hour for parking. Next time, we’d opt for an Airbnb or hotel in the Centro with nearby parking, as a car is essential for the Lido. The beaches, while rocky, were gorgeous – water shoes are a must!

A standout experience was visiting Tenuta Vannulo, a buffalo mozzarella farm, and exploring the ghost town of San Severino. The steep hike to the castle ruins perched above the “Devil’s Gorge” was fascinating and challenging!

Scalea, Calabria

We spent five nights in Scalea, supporting our friend Chiara Barbera’s venture, Vera Italia. Highlights included dinner at Pietra d'Oro Ristorante Pizzeria overlooking the Gulf of Policastro and a boat tour around the gulf with opportunities to jump into the blue grotto. 

Two lazy days at L’Ancora Beach Club were enjoyable, but the real treat was our accommodation at Torre Taleo B&B, rustic outside but modern inside, with air-conditioning, free parking, and a balcony perfect for dinners.

Another highlight was visiting the Christ the Redeemer statue in Maratea. The Clifftop Bar in Scalea is a must for sunset views. 

Santa Domenica, Calabria

Our final stop was Santa Domenica, near Tropea, staying at Borgo di Santa Barbara. Our sea-view room with a balcony was ideal for drying clothes and relaxing. Owners Katrina and her Italian husband were helpful, though we’d skip the €55 wine tour. The friends we made and Stromboli views were memorable. 

We dined at Trattoria Pizzeria La Quercia and Il Deposito. Beaches at Capo Vaticano and Santa Domenica were stunning but required agility due to rocky descents.

A brief revisit to Tropea included a Campari spritz at AX Bar in the Centro Storico, paired with delicious nibbles. 

Lessons Learned So Far

Overpacking strikes again! Next time, more shorts and tops, fewer fancy outfits. Bring preferred toothpaste and multiple bottles of sunscreen. A new discovery was tartufo, a heavenly hazelnut gelato treat coated in chocolate. 

Next, we’re off to Sardinia for two weeks of relaxation.