Visiting Ricadi
Ricadi remains a quiet corner of Italy that has managed to stay under the radar for many international travelers. This coastal town sits in the Calabria region, just a short drive from the well-known town of Tropea. Locals flock here for the dramatic scenery and a slower pace of life. It serves as an excellent home base for exploring the surrounding Calabrian coast.
An idyllic seaside landscape
Ricadi is tucked between the Tyrrhenian Sea and steep cliffs. The terrain offers striking views of the water and plenty of hiking trails that are popular with locals. Because the landscape is so rugged, you will find a different vantage point around every turn. The coastline is equally fragmented, carved by grottos and rocky crevices. This is a major advantage for those seeking privacy, as you can easily hunt for a secluded cove away from the crowds. In fact, finding the perfect hidden spot for a picnic or a swim is one of the most popular ways to spend a day here.
If you prefer the amenities of a full-service beach, head to the plage de Grotticelle. You can rent a lounge chair and umbrella there or rent a pedal boat to get out on the water. A bit further along, Baia da Riaci is another solid option for a beach day. There is also a thermal spa if you are looking for water-based treatments. Nature lovers should head toward the Capo Vaticano, where the jagged coastline is anchored by a white lighthouse that stands high above the sea.
An amphitheater and medieval towers
Beyond the postcard views, Ricadi has layers of history. The town dates back to Ancient Greece, and it has been shaped by Romans, Byzantines, and Normans over the centuries. You can see this history in the local architecture, most notably the l’amphithéâtre. It is carved directly into a hillside and is still used today for theater performances and other events. Right next to it stands the Torre Marrana, a medieval structure built as a lookout to defend against Saracen raids. This was part of a broader defensive network, and you can see another example at the Torre Ruffa, where guards once lit signal fires to warn of approaching ships. If you want to dive deeper into the local heritage, visit the Museo della civiltà contadina to see the traditional tools and techniques used by the people of this region over the last several centuries.
When to go
Ricadi is a year-round destination. Summers are the peak season for beachgoers, but the winters are also popular due to the mild, pleasant temperatures.
How to get there
The closest airport is Lamezia Terme, located about 45 miles (70 kilometers) from Ricadi. It is roughly a one-hour drive. Once you land, the most practical way to reach the coast is to rent a car.
A little less crowded than some of the trendier destinations, the landscapes in this region are really beautiful.