From Fjords to Fiats

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Around Tropea

Tropea, Calabria: Italy's Most Beautiful Village – It's Official!

Only a 1 night stay to see what the fuss is about Tropea- extremely busy but a huge supply of bars, restaurants & cafes. We happened to be within metres of Little Italy, a top rated restaurant and we certainly enjoyed our first Italian pizzas of this trip. Rest of the time was general walking above the seafront and joining the throngs for a sunset photos session. W e enjoyed the stay but we don't need to return.

Special haircut facility-beer on tap


Honouring local soldiers


Church of Saint Michael


Pasguale Galluppi prominent philosopher born in Tropea











Near the old city gate

 

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More of Tropea

Some 'red gold" onions








Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola






Joining the masses for sunset

 

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Tropea to Scilla

After our Tropea arrival we were dreading the next train ride but we ended up with plenty of space for bags, some free seats around us & some excellent scenery on the Violet Coast. Still more petrol cars around here but more electric than last time in Italy.

B & B Sunshine Scilla

B&B Sunshine, Scilla (updated prices 2027)

A great location and we were treated very generously here. Picked up off the train and also plenty of water supplied and ingredients for breakfasts in the fridge. Plenty of stairs (they helped carry bags up) but this obviously helped enhance the views. Good working appliances, plenty of tourist info & tips, a private rooftop, comfortable bed and good wi-fi. In our experience & going by past reviews, the host was actively around the apartment (but unobtrusive so he obviously knew of any shortcomings or problems & remedied it. We are low maintenance/low touch tennants but this stay was the standout for care provided by the host.
It was a 10 min walk back to the train station when we left-noting that there seems to be no lift at the station & a heap of steps to get to the platforms. For people that have mobility challenges, Scilla has quite a few areas that would not be suitable/would be inaccessible.

A bit of funky lighting but it blended in with the overall renovation


















Views from apartment.

Strait of Messina is off the Marina Grande beach Marina Grande, Scilla - Wikipedia


Looking out to the Tyrrhenian Sea-plenty of marine traffic throughout the day

 

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Scilla

Scilla, Calabria - Wikipedia

Our Guide to Scilla | Calabria's Prettiest Fishing Village — ALONG DUSTY ROADS

Located at the tip of the toe of Italy's boot, Scilla is a great spot but a bit of a challenge to get around with plenty of steps & climbing to be done. The town is named after the sea monster Scylla of Greek Mythology. It sits almost opposite Messina in Sicily and the Lipari Islands. Scilla also enjoys warmer waters than nearby sites. We thought the food was pretty good with heaps of choices and lots of coffee/cafe outlets. A lot of locals were out and about & friendly enough if you took the initiative. Plenty to see in the 3 main areas and not overcrowded. The position on the Strait of Messina meant there was plenty of marine traffic to view. The Ruffo Castle was a worthwhile visit and San Rocco square gives great views and hosted a small market while we were there. The tradition of fishing for swordfish is still alive in Scilla with plenty of buying options particularly in the Chianalia village area -plenty of cats hang around here too!

The Norwegian Gem floating past




View from Marina Grande


View to Sicily


A bronze statue depicting Scylla (Scilla), the mythical sea monster from Greek mythology and Homer’s Odyssey, who dwelt across the Strait of Messina.


Info by google-Key Features of the Fountain

• • The Niche: Set within a classic arched stone architectural frame featuring side columns and a decorative upper arch.
  • The Figure of Scilla: Features a sculpted bust representing the mythological sea monster Scilla surrounded by textured tufa rockwork that mimics a grotto or marine cavern.
  • The Shell Basin: A large carved stone shell sits directly beneath the bust, cascading water into a lower stone trough.

Taken within Ruffo Castle


On the terrace of the Castle. Constructed in 1913 & still operated by the navy


From higher up in the castle


Inside Chiesa Matrice with the wooden truss ceiling


Part of the small market

 

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More of Scilla

I must be getting old, the Italian men hanging around talking are starting to look younger




Handy in the tight streets


The offset saucer caught my eye


A bit of history


Fishing quarter of Scilla-Chianalea, plenty of trattorie selling the local seafood




The curved covered walkway & road leading back to Marina Grande




Back at the apartment