There’s no doubt about it, Calabria is Italy’s best-kept secret! Tucked away at the southern tip, Calabria feels refreshingly untouched. Rugged mountains tumble towards clear, turquoise seas, historic hilltop villages sit quietly above the coast, and everyday life moves at an unhurried pace. This is a region shaped by ancient Greek and Roman influences, dramatic landscapes and a strong sense of local identity – perfect for travellers looking to experience a more authentic side of Italy.
Our collection of villas with pools in Italy offers a relaxed way to explore this underrated region. Expect family-friendly escapes close to the coast or countryside, with space to unwind, beaches within easy reach and views that showcase Calabria’s natural beauty. Each villa is handpicked to let you experience the region comfortably, at your own pace.
Style and character are everything at Oliver’s Travels, and our handpicked villas in Calabria reflect that beautifully. Selected by destination experts who know the region inside out, each home is chosen for its individuality, comfort and setting.
Once you’ve booked, our Concierge Service is on hand to help with the finer details – from pre-arrival shopping and private chefs to housekeeping and tailored local experiences – for a truly extraordinary Calabrian escape.
Calabria is Italy at its most authentic. Less polished than its northern neighbours and proudly independent in spirit, the region rewards travellers who enjoy dramatic scenery, historic depth and a slower pace of life.
Spend your days exploring cliff-top villages and ancient ruins rooted in Magna Graecia, swimming in clear Ionian and Tyrrhenian waters, or heading inland to discover forested national parks and mountain trails. Calabria’s coastline remains refreshingly unspoilt, with long stretches of sand, hidden coves and fishing villages that still feel local.
Food is a highlight here, too – bold, seasonal and deeply regional. From fresh seafood and handmade pasta to famous Tropea onions and spicy ’nduja, Calabria offers a flavour-packed introduction to southern Italian cooking.
Embrace the slow pace: Calabria’s charm lies in its relaxed atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle. Take your time to savour each moment, whether it’s enjoying a leisurely meal at a local trattoria, strolling through quaint villages, or lounging on the beach. Allow yourself to immerse fully in the region’s culture and embrace the unhurried pace of life.
Landscape – rugged mountains, national parks and two contrasting coastlines
Beaches – long sandy shores, clear water and quiet coves
History – Greek, Roman and Byzantine influences throughout the region
Food & wine – spicy, seafood-led cuisine with strong local identity
Pace of life – relaxed, traditional and refreshingly uncrowded
Ideal for – family-friendly villa holidays, nature lovers and off-the-radar Italy
Calabria’s hidden archaeological treasures, like the ancient ruins of Magna Graecia, reveal a storied past steeped in Greek and Roman history. Delve into centuries-old civilisations and unearth the secrets of this captivating region, where every stone tells a tale of bygone eras.
Calabria is served by Lamezia Terme Airport, the region’s main international hub, with additional airports at Reggio Calabria and Crotone. Flights from the UK typically take around 2–3 hours, often with seasonal direct routes.
Hiring a car is the best way to explore Calabria, particularly if you’re staying in a countryside villa or want to visit smaller villages and quieter beaches. Coastal roads are scenic, while inland routes can be winding but rewarding.
Trains connect the main coastal towns and cities, making rail travel a viable option for longer journeys along the coast. Services inland are more limited, so trains work best when combined with car hire.
Ferries and hydrofoils link Calabria with Sicily and the Aeolian Islands, offering an easy way to extend your trip or enjoy a day on the water.
