Local family and friends invite you to experience the once upon a time in Calabria as you join us for one of our most special day trips in Southern Italy. Like a trip back in time, our 1-day tour through Caria offers a visit to an ancient castle once home to nobility, stunning views of the sparkling Tyrrhennian Sea and a homemade Calabrese meal with our friends Maria and Guiseppe on their rustic farm.

Located just minutes from Tropea, your day will start with a walking tour through the lush, green countryside of Caria, where magnificent oak, chestnut and acacia trees sit just as they have for centuries and archeological treasures abound. We'll explore the abandoned yet majestic Galluppi castle, which was once the summer home of the famous Tropean philosopher Pasquale Galluppi, and continue past ancient Arabic tombs, remnants of medieval fountains and sprawling vineyards.

After experiencing Caria's ancient sites, we'll take a scenic walk to the farm of our friends Maria and Giuseppe. On the way, you'll meander through the flourishing olive groves from which Maria makes handmade soaps and extra virgin olive oil, and take in breathtaking views of Tropea and the Tyrhennian Sea below as we make our way to the farm for a home cooked Calabrese lunch.

Upon arrival at the farm, you'll be immersed in the savory aroma of freshly baked bread. With just one bite of Maria's wood fire-baked bread served with olive oil produced on the family's farm, you'll be ushered back in time, surrounded by the family's century old olive groves. You'll also enjoy Maria and Giuseppe's homemade Nduja, local cheeses, seasonal vegetables and a meal cooked in Maria's wood brick oven including organic, farm-raised grilled meats all served with plenty of home made local wine.

If the season is right, we'll savor Maria's pignata, a signature Calabrian dish made from slow cooked butter beans and prepared just as it was in ancient Italy.

Contact us for 2018 prices.

Price includes:

• Transport to and from Tropea's historical center
• Walking excursion through Caria's countryside
• Tour of the Galluppi Castle and surrounding archaeological sites
• Tour of Maria and Guiseppe's farm and olive groves
• Authentic, home cooked lunch served with local wine

Other activities available in Caria by request

Soap making class with Maria

We can organize a soap making class with Signora Maria using their home produced extra virgin olive oil. This class can be available in the mornings only.

Ceramic class in Caria

Contact us for further information and availability

Trekking excursion in Caria

Morning trekking tours are available with lunch included.

Contact us for further information.