In the heart of Locride, ancient stories are whispered that unite the Ionian Sea with the traditions of two authentic jewels of the Calabrian territory, the towns of Portigliola and Sant'Ilario. True treasure chests of wonders, set in the Jasmine Coast, where every step is a return to their origins and, every glance, a plunge into their culture.
In these places, time slows down its course, bewitching you with the intense scents of the Mediterranean maquis, combined with sunsets that can melt any heart. You will find yourself immersed in their thousand-year history, in the midst of a very welcoming community that will make for a memorable trip.
Founded around 915 AD, Portigliola is a small village perched on the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea.
Exploring its territory, you’ll find the evocative Greek-Roman theatre of Locri Epizefiri, set in a natural basin and facing the sea. Bearing witness to centuries of history, this place still hosts performances that revive the emotions of the past. Next to the archaeological site, the National Archaeological Park of Locri offers immersive itineraries among ancient walls, temples, and artifacts that tell the story of the greatness of Magna Graecia.
On the nearby beaches, you can enjoy moments of pure relaxation, diving into the splendid Calabrian sea or walking along the paths that wind through olive groves. The crystal-clear waters and the tranquility of the coast make Portigliola an ideal destination for those seeking a rejuvenating holiday, far from mass tourism.
Another major attraction is certainly the local gastronomy, a journey of genuine flavors—from homemade pasta to artisanal cured meats—accompanied by a glass of Greco di Bianco, a typical wine of the area. Throughout the year, festivals and traditional celebrations enliven the village with music, dances, and ancient recipes passed down through generations, offering an authentic immersion into Calabrian culture.
Portigliola is also an ideal starting point for those who want to explore the surroundings of the Locride: medieval villages, nature trails, and breathtaking landscapes await the most curious travelers.
Sant’Ilario is another characteristic village of the Locride, founded toward the end of the sixteenth century.
This town offers a journey through ancient memories and glimpses of unspoiled nature, allowing you to breathe its medieval origins as you walk through the narrow streets of the upper village, where the stones tell stories of shepherds, farmers, and ancient craftsmen.
The beating heart of Sant’Ilario is its people, with a strong sense of community expressed in traditional festivities such as the celebration of its patron saint, St. John the Baptist, or the summer evenings enlivened by music, dancing, and tables laden with food. By savoring the local gastronomy, you embark on a sensory journey—from cheeses to bread baked in wood-fired ovens—with each dish telling a story of family and territory.
Descending toward the Ionian Sea, you’ll be welcomed by golden beaches, perfect for those seeking tranquility and contact with nature. Walking in the surrounding area, you’ll find centuries-old olive groves and prickly pear plants embracing the entire Jasmine Coast.
Those who visit Sant’Ilario dello Ionio are not simply looking for a holiday, but for an authentic connection with the Calabrian land.
