Travel to Calabria

Who We Are: Embracing Calabria’s Coast of the Gods (Costa Degli Dei)

As an American family with deep Calabrian roots, we first discovered Santa Domenica di Ricadi through a chance apartment booking. That simple stay blossomed into lifelong friendships we now consider family. What started as vacation serendipity—sharing meals and laughs with locals—grew into a profound connection that draws us back to this sun-kissed corner of Southern Italy every time.

We’ve fallen into the easy rhythms of local life here. Picture sunset aperitivos overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, savoring authentic dishes like spicy ‘nduja and fresh seafood straight from nearby ports. We wander the quaint villages of the hinterland on foot and indulge in dry-aged steak at the butcher shop, which transforms into a lively nighttime restaurant with wooden tables under the stars. Traci shops like a pro at the Santa Domenica Market and Tropea Market, seeking out the freshest olives and cheeses. Analisa leads our favorite mountain hikes through olive groves, chasing panoramic views that take your breath away. And I navigate the steep, narrow, winding Calabrian roads like a pro, getting us everywhere safely. We’re recognized and treated like friends everywhere we go in the shops, cafes, and eateries.

We started our search for a home elsewhere in Italy. But Calabria stole our hearts completely—especially Santa Domenica di Ricadi. This vibrant town, where people live, work, and savor la dolce vita along the Costa Degli Dei, won us over with its unhurried charm, dramatic cliffs, and perfect blend of sea, mountains, and community. We knew right then we wanted our own place here, to share that same sweet, magical escape with you—complete with our insider tips on the best aperitivo sunsets and butcher feasts.