NEW!

CALABRIA CHEF BIKE TOUR

JUNE 8 - JUNE 14, 2025

 

Calabrian cuisine, a vibrant reflection of its rugged landscape and rich history, is a celebration of bold flavors and rustic traditions.

Nestled in the toe of Italy's boot, Calabria is known for its fiery peppers, robust olive oil, and hearty pasta dishes that embody the region's spirit. The cuisine is deeply rooted in the land, with an emphasis on local ingredients like wild herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and the famous 'Nduja—a spicy, spreadable pork sausage that adds a distinctive kick to any dish. Calabrian food is both humble and powerful, reflecting the resilience of its people and the sun-drenched terrain they call home.

Calabria is our most ambitious Chef Bike Tour project to date.

Designing this tour presented some additional challenges and obstacles, as this region is often overshadowed by its neighboring regions (Puglia and Sicily in particular), and the physical and tourism infrastructure is behind other parts of Italy. We feel that the extra effort is worth it, and we are excited to present the food, history and culture of this lesser-known area of Italy.

This region is also important for those with Italian heritage, as many people from Calabria left their homeland for the USA and brought with them their culinary and cultural traditions. These immigrants helped to shape what we know in the USA as Italian cuisine. 

We’ve selected an area in the heart of the region, nestled between Tropea and Soverato that is also home to many of the best-known and highest quality products in the region. Our route will take us from coast to coast, crossing the peaceful Aspromonte Mountains by Serra San Bruno.

Its varied topography presents a challenging yet rewarding experience for casual riders who are the typical Chef Bike Tour participants. 

Joining us once again for this extraordinary journey is the renowned Chef Mary Sue Milliken.

Why Go:

Stunning Coastlines: Calabria boasts breathtaking coastlines along both the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. The famous Costa degli Dei (Tropea and Capo Vaticano) are must-see spots.

Rich History and Culture: Explore ancient Greek and Roman ruins, and medieval town centers. Calabria’s deep history is reflected in its architecture, traditions, and cultural festivals.

Scenic Nature and Outdoor Activities: Calabria offers diverse landscapes, from the rugged Aspromonte Mountains to the rolling hills of Sila National Park. It’s perfect for cycling in nature and in serene countryside.

Authentic and Unspoiled Atmosphere: Calabria remains one of Italy’s lesser-known regions, offering an authentic experience without the crowds. Visitors can immerse themselves in local life, from traditional crafts to vibrant markets.

Warm Hospitality: Calabrians are known for their warmth and hospitality, ensuring that visitors feel welcome. The region’s slower pace of life and genuine friendliness make it a relaxing and enjoyable destination while compensating for the lack of high-end hospitality infrastructure.

A Personal Tale: Both Heather and Beppe (Tourissimo's co-founders) have family roots in Calabria. They will both join this tour and they have personally scouted the itinerary, selected the activities and the routes, and of course, tasted the food!

 

 

Tour cost is US$ 5,400

Sign up here.

 Calabria Tourissimo 2024

 

 

It is hard to believe there are still so many unknown and hidden corners of this wildly popular tourist destination, but there are, and these are literally the roads less traveled - and more graveled - but still fully supported in high style.

Larry Olmsted Senior Contributor at Forbes

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Calabria Scilla

 

Food Highlights of Calabria:

  1. 'Nduja: A spicy, spreadable pork sausage from Spilinga, 'nduja is one of Calabria's most famous culinary exports. It’s perfect on bread, in pasta, or as a pizza topping.

  2. Cipolla Rossa di Tropea: These sweet red onions from Tropea are renowned for their delicate flavor. They are often used in salads, jams, and even desserts.

  3. Peperoncino: Calabrian cuisine is known for its bold use of chili peppers. They are a key ingredient in many dishes, adding a distinctive heat to the region’s flavors.

  4. Fileja Pasta: A traditional hand-rolled pasta unique to Calabria, often served with rich tomato sauces or with local vegetables like wild fennel and peppers.

  5. Caciocavallo Silano: A semi-hard cheese with a distinct shape, made from cow's milk in the Sila Mountains. It’s delicious on its own or melted over dishes.