Le Castella holidays

A view from the castle tower toward the town

A restaurant terrace with a view of the castle

The statue of Giovanni Dionigi Galeni, also known as Ali Kilic Pasha, in the town square

Clear blue waters with the castle beyond

Looking from the castle ruins out to sea

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Le Castella holidays are all about living like a local – think castle views, crystal-clear seas and laidback Italian beach days.

Coastal Calabria

Tucked along Calabria’s Ionian coast – right at the ‘toe’ of Italy – Le Castella is one of those under-the-radar spots that fills with Italians come summer. Its claim to fame? A sea-surrounded fortress, a mix of sandy beaches and rugged coves, and water so clear you can see straight to the seabed. The town centre’s got everything you’d want from an authentic Italian spot, with local restaurants, gelaterias and little shops. And honestly, who’s saying no to a freshly made gelato in the sunshine?

The floating castle

Le Castella’s Aragonese Castle is the standout landmark here. It sits on a tiny islet, and looks like a real-life sandcastle perched on the water, linked to the mainland by a narrow pathway. It’s hard to imagine that this pretty little spot was once defending pirate attacks – these days, it’s much more laidback, with swimmers bobbing in the clear water and visitors wandering the old stone walls. When the tide allows, walk across the causeway for a step back in time among towers and courtyards, and snap up views over the Ionian.

Did I hear crystal-clear waters?

Le Castella sits within the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area – one of the largest in Italy – so the sea here is a big deal. You’ve got A* beaches, from wide sandy stretches to smaller, more rugged coves, all washed by clear, calm water. Thanks to its protected status, the sea is packed with marine life, from colourful fish to starfish and coral. You can explore by glass-bottom boat, join a guided dive, or follow scenic coastal trails if you’d rather stay on land.

Calabrian cuisine

Food here is simple, fresh and full of flavour – a proper taste of Calabria. Expect plenty of seafood, from grilled fish to seafood pasta and crispy fritto misto – a mix of lightly fried fish and shellfish – often caught the same day. Local ingredients add a signature twist, like spicy ’nduja, sweet Tropea onions and a kick of chilli. You’ll also find homemade pasta dishes and classic Italian favourites on most menus. And the best part? Many restaurants come with sea or castle views, so you can soak it all in while you eat.