Simplicity in Southern Italy

A May 2002 trip to Tropea by CHolt

We spent a week touring Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, and then traveled to Tropea in Southern Italy for a week at Villaggio l'Olivara #3248. It was the most wonderful 2 weeks of our lives.

  • 2 reviews
The scenery in Tropea cannot be described. We were the only two Americans in the village for the entire week, and were treated like family by everyone we met in the village. The food and hospitality was wonderful, and the shopkeepeers were very friendly and helpful. Although few villagers spoke English, language was not a barrier. A smile is understood in every language.

Quick Tips:

There is nothing commercial in the village other than a gas station and a bank. Everything else is vintage and the restaurants are family owned/managed. It is a place for enjoying the scenery, local culture, peace and quiet, and wonderful food. The night life there is to walk to the center of the village, have a relaxing dinner, and spend the evening walking around the main square and socializing. Go for relaxation and rest - it is absolutely wonderful.

Best Way To Get Around:

We rented a car as there is really no public transportation in the village. You can arrive either by car or train. We had no trouble driving, although the secondary roads are very narrow and curvy, but that's part of the cultural experience. We always felt safe and welcome in this area.
Best Things Nearby:
beach, churches, mountains

Best Things About the Resort:
A great resort with an exceptional view. From our balcony we could see 50+ miles of coastline - a beauty to behold both day and night. Staff was excellent and the daily breakfast was delicious.

Resort Experience:
The resort is a favorite for Roman citizens on holiday, so it is an authentic Italian resort. The staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful--they even allowed me to use their internet system to send email back to the US. The resort is located on a cliff 2 miles above the village of Tropea, and the view of the village and the sea is stunning!! It was the absolute best vacation of my life.

  • Unit Type: 2 Bedroom
  • Activities: Excellent
  • Amenities: Excellent
  • Unit Satisfaction: Excellent
  • Family Friendliness: Excellent
  • Service: Excellent
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by CHolt on November 6, 2002

Villaggio l'Olivara
Localita Gasponi 88030 Tropea, Italy

About the Writer

CHolt
CHolt
Liberty, North Carolina

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