This region accounts for the ‘toe’ of the Italian boot and boasts some of the most stunning natural panoramas in the country. A relatively undiscovered region of Italy, the slopes of Calabria, surrounded by the clear warm waters of the Mediterranean and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, offer peace and contemplation. The largest city is Reggio Calabria, about 123 km (76 miles) from the Villa Saveria.

Known for its fine wine, even finer seafood, and warm hospitality, Calabria was once part of Magna Graecia – the extended section of the ancient Greek Empire. Colonised more or less at the same time as the foundation of the city of Rome, the region was also under Aragonese rule for a while and bears more evidence of this period in its architecture than any other, particularly in the ancient city gates.

As with many medieval Italian towns, there are several exquisite churches that are not to be missed – San Nicola, Santi Cosma & Damiano and Spirito Santo - and a few kilometres further afield, the Tower of Casamona, built to give warning of the approach of pirates from the Ottoman Empire.

In the provincial capital of Reggio Calabria, thought to be founded in 730 as Esperia, offers a cultural and historical experience, as well as transport links all over Italy and into Sicily. Here you’ll find the National Magna Graecia Museum, where the Bronze Statues of Riace are on display after having been discovered here in the waters in front of the Villa Saveria in 1972.