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BEACHES

Marcellina is surrounded by magnificent beaches that combine wild nature, crystal clear waters, and a Mediterranean atmosphere. Here are some of the most beautiful ones to discover in the surrounding area:

  • Free Beach of Santa Maria del Cedro A quiet public beach on the Lungomare Papa Giovanni XXIII. Perfect for those who like to lay down their towel without constraints, with a relaxed, local atmosphere.
  • Spiaggia di Scalea A few kilometers away, this beach is very popular with its gray sand and clear waters. It offers a beautiful view of the old hilltop village and the surrounding cliffs.
  • Spiaggia di Tortora Marina Bandiera Blu Awarded the Bandiera Blu label for the quality of its waters and services. Ideal for a family day out or for those who love clean and safe swimming.
  • Spiaggia di S. Nicola d’Arcella In San Nicola Arcella, this beach offers a charming harbor atmosphere and easy access to more secret coves. Very popular for its tranquility and natural beauty.
  • Spiaggia dell’Arcomagno A hidden gem! Accessible by footpath or boat, this beach is famous for its spectacular natural arch. A picture-postcard setting, perfect for photos and nature lovers.
  • Spiaggia di Marina di Santa Maria del Cedro Located on the Lungomare Gino Bartali, this beach is well-equipped and very popular with locals. It combines fine sand, amenities, and the typical summer atmosphere of the Riviera dei Cedri.

GROTTE DEL ROMITO

The Romito Caves, or Grotta del Romito, are a true archaeological treasure nestled in the municipality of Papasidero, in Calabria, in the heart of the Pollino National Park. This site is one of the most important testimonies of the Upper Paleolithic in Italy, and even in Europe.

 

  • Located at an altitude of approximately 296 meters, the caves consist of a 34-meter-long rock shelter and a cave approximately 20 meters deep.

  • They are known for their spectacular karst environment, featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and a still-unexplored gallery.

DIAMANTE

Diamante is a little gem nestled on the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria. Its name is well-deserved: between its crystal-clear sea, artistic heritage and culinary traditions, this town has everything to seduce.

  • ​Makes Diamante Unique A popular seaside resort: With its 7 km of coastline, Diamante is a paradise for beach lovers, diving enthusiasts, and water sports enthusiasts. The nearby island of Cirella is renowned for its underwater world and ancient ruins.
  • Riviera dei Cedri: The town is famous for its citron cultivation, which is used in local cuisine and even exported as far away as the United States. A typical liqueur is produced here.
  • Pepperoncino Festival: Every September, Diamante hosts a colorful festival dedicated to the chili pepper, with performances, tastings, and spicy competitions.
  • Street Art: The historic center is a veritable open-air gallery. Dozens of murals adorn the facades, created by artists from around the world since the 1980s.
  • Culture and Heritage Churches and Monuments: The town is home to several religious and historical buildings, testaments to its Mediterranean past.
  • Nighttime Ambience: The waterfront offers a magical view of the boats and city lights, especially at sunset.
  • Practical Information Population: Approximately 5,200 inhabitants Local Festivals: The Immaculate Conception is celebrated on December 8th, and another popular festival takes place on August 12th Diamante is therefore much more than a seaside destination: it’s a town where the sea, art, and flavors come together in a warm and authentic atmosphere.

CASCATA DEI SOGNI

The Cascata dei Sogni in Sangineto: a hidden gem of nature and mystery Nestled in the Calabrian mountains, near the historic center of Sangineto, the Cascata dei Sogni (also called Cascata di Vuglio) is a natural wonder that captivates with its magical atmosphere and wild setting.

The Sentiero dei Sogni:

  • an enchanting walk This approximately 6 km hiking trail runs alongside the Torrente Sangineto, crossing lush vegetation, wooden footbridges, small natural passages, and rustic staircases.
  • The route is easy and accessible to all, ideal for a family outing or a romantic getaway.
  • It leads to a spectacular natural cave, where the torrent cascades, creating a fairytale setting.
  • The Cascata di Vuglio: the heart of the dream
  • Located in a rocky cave, the waterfall is several meters high and offers a breathtaking spectacle, especially in spring when the flow is strongest.
  • This place was known to locals as U Gugliu, long before its official opening to the public in August 2020.
  • The echo of the water in the cave, combined with the light filtering through the foliage, creates a magical and almost mystical atmosphere.
  • A site between geology and poetry The trail follows the Sangineto geological fault, a meeting point between the Orsomarso Mountains and the Calabrian coastal range.

  • It’s a place where nature, local history, and community involvement come together: the trail has been restored by volunteers and local associations such as the CAI of Verbicaro and the Pro Loco of Sangineto.

* Admission fee and guided tour

VERBICARO

Verbicaro is a charming hilltop village in the province of Cosenza, Calabria. Situated at an altitude of 428 metres, it offers a splendid panorama of the mountains of the Pollino National Park and the hills that plunge towards the Tyrrhenian Sea.

What makes Verbicaro truly unique is its authentic atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions. The village is renowned for its local wine, Verbicaro DOC, a regional pride with powerful aromas, cultivated since Roman times. Heritage lovers will be captivated by its narrow streets, ancient churches such as Santa Maria Assunta and Santa Maria della Neve, and Byzantine frescoes that tell centuries of history. But Verbicaro is also a place of intense spirituality. Every year during Holy Week, the village celebrates the impressive ritual of the Vattienti, a procession of penitents who scourge their legs as a sign of devotion. It is a spectacle both poignant and fascinating, attracting both the curious and the faithful.

ORSOMARSO

Orsomarso is a small village nestled in the mountains. This authentic village, located in the heart of the Pollino National Park, is surrounded by majestic mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests. It is a true haven of peace for nature lovers and those passionate about traditions.

In Orsomarso, cultural events celebrate both tradition and the surrounding nature. Here are some highlights:

Torre dell’Orologio – This iconic venue in Piazza Municipio is often the center of local festivities. It hosts theatrical performances, open-air concerts, and religious celebrations, particularly during the patron saint’s festivals. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with locals gathering around music, folk dancing, and Calabrian specialties.

The village also hosts gastronomic sagres, traditional music festivals, craft exhibitions, and sporting events such as rafting on the Lao River or guided hikes in the Pollino Park. If you want to experience authentic Calabria, Orsomarso is a gem not to be missed.