© Shutterstock

The summer was long, hot and wonderful. Those who can't part with it can't be blamed. But what to do about the autumn blues that set in with the cooler temperatures? That's right, pack your bags and fly towards the sun! Calabria is an underrated destination in the fall. The temperatures are still wonderfully warm. They reach up to 25 degrees during the day. Ideal for sitting outside a café without breaking a sweat. Warm sunshine and blue skies are one thing - far fewer tourists than during the high season in summer are another. But there are other reasons why Calabria is so beautiful in the fall.

Magnificent nature

© Shutterstock

For example, the Aspromonte mountains are a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. In autumn, the mild temperatures are complemented by the bright colors of the forests. As you follow the hiking trails through picturesque villages and along spectacular gorges, you can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the wonderful views. The sea may be a little cooler, but long walks along deserted beaches not only make for great photo opportunities, but also clear the mind. The southern Italian region has an astonishing 800 kilometers of coastline to offer; there's a suitable beach for everyone. Hikers also get their money's worth in the Sila National Park.

Culinary highlights

© Shutterstock

Although it's still warm, fall is also the time of year when the harvest takes place in Calabria. This is celebrated in many regions with olive and wine festivals. In Montella, for example, the "Week of Chestnuts" is celebrated at the end of September. This culminates in the Festa della Castagna, the chestnut festival. A market with chestnut-based products, guided tours through the woods, arts and crafts and freshly roasted chestnuts bring visitors closer to the chestnut. If you wish, you can not only help with the olive harvest, but also make pecorino with shepherds. In Pizzo, you should definitely try the famous Tartufo ice cream and plan a visit to the small church of Piedigrotta. It was carved into a cave.

Art and culture

© Shutterstock

Of course, there's also plenty of culture. At Tropea Blues Festival, for example, well-known performers take to the stage; this year it takes place from September 18 to 19 and October 3 to 5. The atmosphere is lively and the setting is special. Tropea is one of the most famous towns in Calabria. It's enthroned on a cliff above the Tyrrhenian Sea. Now it's also the perfect time to take a trip to the pottery village Squillace where you can visit the Norman castle and the cathedral.

Beautiful villages

© Shutterstock

Of course, you can visit the wonderful towns and villages of Calabria at any time of year. However, in fall, when there are fewer tourists, you can experience them from their quieter side. In addition to the aforementioned Tropea, Capo Vaticano is also worth a visit. Here, you'll find some of the most beautiful beaches in Calabria. The picturesque coastal village of Scilla on the coast of the Strait of Messina is famous for its Chianalea beach. And in the "City of Science" Cosenza, which is well worth a visit, you can stroll through a beautiful old town with a cathedral. Deserted areas and buildings also contribute to Calabria's special charm.

Read more: A road trip through Puglia