Why I love
this area so much.

Discover northern Calabria

Many visitors mainly know the famous coastal resorts. Look a little further, however, and you will discover a region where nature, tranquillity, culture and adventure still go hand in hand.

That is exactly why many guests choose Vicky’s B&B by V in Papasidero. Instead of staying amid the crowds, you can experience the real Calabria, with mountains, rivers, historic villages and the sea all surprisingly close by.

Northern Calabria is known for its varied landscape: wild mountains, crystal-clear rivers, authentic villages and beautiful coastal towns. It is a region where you can still enjoy peace, space and a way of life that is becoming increasingly rare elsewhere in Europe.

For many guests, a visit to Papasidero begins as a holiday but often becomes much more: an encounter with a side of Italy that remains authentic, welcoming and unspoilt.

What is there to do?

Many guests are surprised by the variety of experiences available. From adventurous activities on the Lao river to peaceful walks through historic villages, every day offers something new without losing the calm that defines this region.

The Lao river changes along its course. Each stretch has its own character and possibilities: river walking and rafting in one area, then kayaking, packrafting, stand-up paddleboarding, tubing and other water sports further downstream.

Mountain bikers, cyclists, hikers, quad-bike enthusiasts and other outdoor lovers will find countless ways to explore the area.

The coast near Praia a Mare is ideal for snorkelling or taking a diving course.

Families with children will also find plenty to do: search for prehistoric traces around the Romito Cave or spend a day at the Orsomarso adventure park, with zip lines, suspension bridges and climbing trails.

There are also caves, archaeological sites, historic villages and many hidden places to discover.

Why do guests choose Papasidero?

Many guests discover Papasidero by chance while looking for peace, nature and an authentic Calabria untouched by mass tourism. Papasidero’s organised sports days also attract visitors: special occasions when sport, community and the local area come together. This is another reason why so many return. Here you experience the vastness of the mountains, the beauty of the sea and the hospitality of a region that has preserved its own character.

Mountains and sea within easy reach

One of the great advantages of staying in Papasidero is that you do not have to choose between the mountains and the sea. Wake to mountain views in the morning and relax on the beautiful Tyrrhenian coast later that day.

Scalea, Praia a Mare, San Nicola Arcella and Diamante are all within easy reach, offering lovely beaches, seafront promenades, cafés and restaurants, as well as swimming, snorkelling, diving, boat trips and other water sports.

Many guests consider this combination of mountains, nature and sea one of the loveliest surprises of their holiday.

Taste authentic Calabria

A stay in Papasidero is about more than nature and adventure. Lovers of Calabrian food will find trattorias, agriturismos and family-run restaurants where traditional recipes are still prepared. No mass tourism or lengthy tourist menus, but dishes handed down from one generation to the next.

Local produce, fresh ingredients and hospitality are at the heart of Calabrian cooking. It is often the simplest dishes that leave the strongest memories. Coffee in the square, a late-afternoon aperitivo or a relaxed dinner at a trattoria are never far away.

Here, many guests discover not only the flavours of Calabria but also the warmth of its people.

Explore the area around Papasidero

At Vicky’s B&B by V, you are in the heart of one of southern Italy’s most beautiful natural areas, where tranquillity, adventure and authenticity meet. Many special places are only a short distance from the B&B.

The Lao river winds through the landscape and is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in southern Italy. In spring and summer, visitors come to Papasidero for rafting, canyoning and other outdoor activities.

Nature lovers also have much to experience. Pollino National Park offers beautiful trails, impressive mountain scenery and unforgettable views.

Authentic villages such as Orsomarso, Verbicaro, Aieta and Morano Calabro are easy to reach. Wander through narrow streets, discover local traditions and observe everyday Calabrian life. The prehistoric Romito Cave is also nearby and is one of southern Italy’s most important archaeological sites.

For hikers, photographers and lovers of nature and tranquillity, this area is an endless source of inspiration. Many guests tell me that their most memorable holiday days were spent right here.

Discover more of Calabria

For those who enjoy day trips, Calabria has many more special destinations. From Papasidero you can reach coastal towns, historic villages, nature reserves and cultural sites, each with a story of its own.

During your stay, you can discover not only northern Calabria but the variety of the entire region.

Vicky's B&B by V

Vicky’s B&B by V is more than a place to sleep: it brings together tranquillity, nature, hospitality and the beauty of northern Calabria. Because I live here and welcome guests every day, I am happy to share personal tips for walks, hidden beaches, authentic trattorias, special excursions and adventures on the Lao river.

This way, you will discover not only the well-known sights but also the hidden gems that make this region so special to me.

I hope you too will experience the same peace, beauty and hospitality that I once fell in love with.