Amantea

Amantea is a renowned beach locality on the tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, between Lamezia Terme and Paola, and is divided in two areas: the higher part with the ancient hamlet and its peculiar alleys; the lower part on the coast. The historical centre is characterized by the contrast between the austere working-class houses and the majestic noble palaces.

The local economy is mainly based on the tourist industry and trade. The recently-built harbour of Campora San Giovanni is the place where the boat trips to the Eolie Islands start. Amantea's typical desserts are the "buccunotto", a boat-shaped pastry filled with chocolate, spices and other secret ingredients, and the dried figs with white and dark chocolate, symbol of fortune and prosperity. Amantea is also known for the high-quality of its fish: anchovies, sardines and rosamarina.

The tourists can visit many monuments and take excursions on wonderful paths such as the one that leads to the Castle of Amantea, overlooking the entire inhabited centre. There are also numerous towers and forts that can be reached by foot or by bike following suggestive paths.