Highlights of Calabria, Mount Etna & Sicily

Ciao! Welcome to Italy. Your adventure begins in Naples – the vibrant city celebrated as the birthplace of pizza. Naples is also known for its rich history and is home to many narrow, winding streets and ancient churches. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, perhaps stroll along the coast and find a little eatery for a pizza dinner, a glass of local wine and a view of the Gulf of Naples.

This morning, you’ll travel to Civita by boat, train and private vehicle. Founded by Albanian refugees in the Middle Ages, Civita is recognised by the Italian government as home to an ethnic minority. The Civitesi speak Arberesh, a unique blend of Italian and Albanian, found only here and in parts of Sicily. Explore this fascinating village on foot, visit a local shop to sample regional delights or take a scenic walk in the hills.

Make sure you get a good breakfast this morning as you have the option to hike up Mount Sellaro – one of the peaks of Pollino National Park. On the way to the mountain, stop by Cerchiara di Calabria – a little town in the National Park best known for its bread. Maybe stock up on some of the tasty local produce, then continue to a remote sanctuary built by Byzantine monks, on the rocky hillside. The hike path begins just beyond the sanctuary – although it's a reasonably long trek, it’s well worth the summit views of the Achaean coast. If you decide the hike isn’t for you, you can still enjoy the National Park. With sheer cliffs, narrow canyons and a diverse range of wildlife – including the peregrine falcon, eagle owl and the recently reintroduced Egyptian vulture – this area is a wildlife lover’s paradise.

After breakfast this morning, transfer from Civita to Paola, then take the train to Tropea. Known for the faded buildings and iconic fortifications that line the city’s cliffs, Tropea feels timeless. Explore the town on an orientation walk with your leader, then maybe visit the local Norman cathedral, the Duomo, which houses an icon of Madonna of Romania – the town’s revered protectress. Next to the Duomo, there’s the Museo Diocesano – a small museum in the Palazzo Vescovile full of religious art and wooden statues. If you’d prefer some time by the water, head to the beach and see the impressive structures on the nearby cliffs.

If the weather permits, you’ll set out on a boat trip to the island of Stromboli this morning. When you arrive, visit San Vincenzo, where you can swim in the blue sea of the Aeolian Islands, shop along the main street or dine at a local restaurant. Depending on the season, you’ll depart Stromboli in the evening and cruise to the Sciara del Fuoco (Steam of Fire) to see the path of lava that flows during Stromboli's eruptions.

Take a train to Reggio Calabria – the gateway to Sicily. The city is in a major earthquake zone and has experienced much destruction over the years, leaving fewer historical sites compared to the rest of Italy. However, this has resulted in a unique mix of old buildings and modern structures, which you’ll see on an orientation walk. Visit the renowned National Archaeological Museum of Reggio – this museum is home to a collection of exhibits from Greek-influenced sites across Calabria, including the Bronzi di Riace (two giant bronze statues found on the seafloor in the 1970s). Tonight, maybe hunt down one of the city's best restaurants for local dishes like grilled swordfish or pasta with cauliflower and broccoli.

This morning, drive to Taormina on the east coast for a private boat excursion. Sailing along the Sicilian coast, you’ll check out the bays and caves of Taormina, characterised by the imposing rocks that surround them. Soak up the sunshine, enjoy an aperitif with snacks and learn about the village from your skipper. Maybe even stop for a swim to cool off before continuing on to Catania. When you arrive, you have a free night to explore the city’s bar culture and find a good spot for dinner.