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Calabria coastline at golden hour

June 15 – 22, 2027 · Calabria, Italy

The Soul of the South

New Departure · Hosted by Anna & Michael Olson

The Concept

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Welcome to Calabria - Italy's most authentic, least-explored culinary frontier. This eight-day journey immerses you in the food, wine, and traditions of the deep south, guided by the expertise and warmth of celebrated chefs Anna & Michael Olson.

You'll taste bergamot from the trees where it grows, learn bread-making from women who've perfected it over generations, and dine in settings that range from clifftop resorts to family-run trattorias.

This is not a tour. It's an invitation into a world few outsiders ever access.

Anna & Michael Olson
“Calabria is the Italy that most people have never seen - raw, generous, and utterly unforgettable. We can't wait to share it with you.”— Anna & Michael Olson

Why This Journey

1

Hosted Throughout by Anna & Michael Olson

Anna & Michael are with you for the full eight days - at tastings, in kitchens, at meals, and during every curated experience.

2

5-Star Comfort, Authentic Experiences

Luxury properties with infinity pools overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, world-class spas, and Michelin-standard dining.

3

Exclusive Access

Private cooking classes with family artisans, tastings with producers who rarely welcome visitors, and dinners in settings that feel like secrets.

4

Small Group, Intimate Pace

With just 14-18 guests, you'll move through Calabria as a close-knit group, never rushed, never overwhelmed.

5

Seamless Logistics

Private coach throughout. White-glove transfers. Hotels that anticipate your every need. Your only job is to experience.

What You'll Experience

Calabria, Curated

Coast of the Gods – Tropea, Pizzo, and the Tyrrhenian Sea
Hands-on culinary moments (gelato, local specialties, and cooking workshops)
Producers: cheese, 'nduja, olive oil, and regional tastings
Museum and cultural visits paired with beautiful coastal time
A true 5-star Calabrian rhythm – curated, but never rushed

Day by Day

Tour Itinerary

1

Day 1

Arrival and Welcome Dinner with a View

Arrive in Reggio Calabria. Private transfer to your 5-star resort overlooking the Strait of Messina. Welcome dinner with a breathtaking view of the sea and Calabrian specialties.

🏨 Altafiumara Resort & Spa

Elegant welcome dinner on a terrace overlooking the Strait of Messina at sunset
2

Day 2

Reggio, Gelato & Winery Tour

Morning visit to the National Museum of Magna Graecia — home to the famous Bronzi di Riace. Guided walk through Reggio's waterfront promenade. Afternoon gelato workshop with a local master gelatiere, followed by a winery visit and tasting.

🏨 Altafiumara Resort & Spa

Master gelatiere crafting artisan gelato in Reggio Calabria
3

Day 3

Bergamot, Roman Villas & Countryside Dinner

Discover the world-famous Calabrian bergamot — visit a producer and learn about this extraordinary citrus. Explore ancient Roman villas along the Ionian coast. Evening countryside dinner with local flavours and warm Calabrian hospitality.

🏨 Parco dei Principi

Lush bergamot citrus orchard with Ionian Sea in the background
4

Day 4

Agriturismo, Cooking Classes and Gerace

A hands-on morning at a working agriturismo — cooking classes with local experts using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Afternoon visit to the medieval hilltop village of Gerace, one of Calabria's most beautiful borghi.

🏨 Parco dei Principi

Hands-on cooking class at a rustic Calabrian agriturismo
5

Day 5

Artisan Producers & Pizzo Tartufo Gelato

Morning visits to local artisan producers — taste 'nduja, cheeses, olive oil, and other Calabrian specialties made by hand. Afternoon in the charming town of Pizzo, birthplace of the legendary tartufo gelato.

🏨 Capovaticano Resort

Calabrian artisan food spread with nduja, pecorino and Pizzo tartufo gelato
6

Day 6

R&R, Cheese & Wine

A leisurely day to rest and recharge. Visit a local cheese producer — pecorino, caciocavallo, and ricotta made by hand. Afternoon wine tasting at a hillside winery with stunning coastal views.

🏨 Capovaticano Resort

Wine and cheese tasting at a hillside Calabrian winery with Tyrrhenian Sea views
7

Day 7

Bread Festival, Tropea and Farewell Dinner

Participate in the Giornata del Pane — a celebration of Calabrian bread-making traditions. Explore the clifftop town of Tropea, known for its red onions and dramatic sea views. Farewell dinner celebrating the journey.

🏨 Capovaticano Resort

Clifftop town of Tropea with traditional Calabrian bread and red onions at the bread festival
8

Day 8

Morning Checkout & Airport Transfer

Enjoy a final breakfast at the resort. Morning checkout and private transfer to Lamezia Terme airport. Arrivederci, Calabria.

Final morning breakfast on a Calabrian resort terrace overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea

New Departure - Reserve Your Spot

This is a brand new departure for June 15 – 22, 2027. Spaces are limited - reach out to secure your place on this extraordinary journey.

A Taste of What Awaits

Calabria & the South

Calabria coastline at golden hour
Aeolian sea
Chianalea fishing village
Aeolian Islands wine and sea
Anna & Michael Olson
Southern Italian coastline

Photos from previous FTD journeys through Southern Italy.

The Soul of the South Awaits

New departure: June 15 – 22, 2027

Limited spots available. Contact Giovanni to reserve yours.