Just a few kilometres from Capovaticano Resort, Calabria reveals two of its most fascinating destinations: Scilla and Reggio Calabria. Two places with different characters and atmospheres, yet both easily reachable in a day and both capable of offering an authentic glimpse of Calabria at its best. An excursion well worth every kilometre travelled.

Excursion to Scilla and Reggio Calabria from Capovaticano Resort

Scilla rises on the promontory separating the Tyrrhenian Sea from the Strait of Messina: on one side Marina Grande with its pebble beach dotted with colourful fishermen’s boats, and on the other Chianalea, the fishing village whose houses are reflected in the water, nicknamed the “little Venice of Calabria”. At the top of the promontory stands Ruffo Castle, offering one of the most spectacular views over the Strait: on clear days, the Sicilian coast can be seen less than 3 km away. What to see in Scilla: the castle, the village of Chianalea on foot, the Church of Santa Maria Immacolata and the seafront of Marina Grande.

The beaches of Scilla

The beaches of Scilla are among the most characteristic on Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast. Marina Grande is the main beach, wide and equipped with beach clubs and facilities. Chianalea beach is more intimate and ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Further north, the beaches of Grotte offer crystal-clear waters in an almost unspoilt natural setting. The sea in Scilla is clear and transparent, with seabeds that change quickly: perfect for snorkeling along the rocks of Chianalea.

Reggio Calabria: what to see

Reggio Calabria deserves at least half a day. The Falcomatà seafront, described by Gabriele D’Annunzio as “the most beautiful kilometre in Italy”, stretches for almost 2 km with palm trees, oleanders and magnificent views over the Strait and Mount Etna. An unmissable stop is the National Archaeological Museum of Magna Graecia, home to the Riace Bronzes, the famous 5th-century BC Greek statues recovered from the seabed in 1972. Also worth visiting are the Aragonese Castle and the historic centre, with its cafés and the tradition of Reggio-style granita.

How to reach Scilla and Reggio Calabria from the Resort

From Capovaticano Resort, Scilla is about 60 km away, around 1 hour by car via the SS18 coastal road, while Reggio Calabria is about 90 km away, around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The two destinations can be combined in a single excursion: morning departure for Reggio Calabria to visit the Riace Bronzes and the seafront, lunch in Scilla, and the afternoon exploring Chianalea and Ruffo Castle.

Capovaticano Resort organises excursions to Scilla and Reggio Calabria.
Contact us for more information and book your excursion.

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What is Scilla famous for?

Scilla is famous for the village of Chianalea, Ruffo Castle and its crystal-clear beaches. It is also known for the legend of Scylla and Charybdis from Homer’s Odyssey and for swordfish from the Strait. From Capovaticano Resort, it can be reached in about 1 hour.

What is the most beautiful beach in Scilla?

Among the beaches of Scilla, Marina Grande is the largest and best equipped. Chianalea beach is the most characteristic thanks to its village setting. The beaches of Grotte are the wildest and are particularly appreciated for the quality of the water.

What to see in Scilla in one day?

In one day in Scilla, you can visit Ruffo Castle, explore the village of Chianalea on foot, visit the Church of Santa Maria Immacolata and spend time at Marina Grande beach. The walking itinerary takes around 4–5 hours. Ideal as an excursion from Capovaticano Resort.

How far is Scilla from Reggio Calabria?

Scilla is about 25 km from Reggio Calabria and can be reached in around 30 minutes by car. The two destinations are ideal to combine in a single day trip.

What is the castle in Scilla called?

The castle in Scilla is called Ruffo Castle, also known as the Castle of Ruffo di Scilla. It stands on the promontory of the same name and is one of the symbols of the village. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views over the Strait of Messina and, on clear days, the Sicilian coast.