Unwind in Italy's Lesser-Known Gems: Escape the Tourist Throng
Skip the pricey hotspots like Capri and Tuscany, and discover Italy's hidden gems instead! These lesser-known destinations offer a chance to immerse yourself in the country's authentic culture and traditions.
Lake Posta Fibreno (Lazio)
To reach this enchanting spot, you'll need to navigate the isolated area of Ciociaria in Lazio or Campania. Posta Fibreno, a tiny hamlet, feels untouched by time and comprises just a few farmhouses, a bar, and a fish tavern. The main attraction is the dreamy lake, dotted with water lilies, and surrounded by fields of grazing sheep. Rent a paddleboat or dinghy, and enjoy a picnic on the soft grass while mingling with locals.
San Candido (Trentino-Alto Adige/Süd Tirol)
Visitors to this Alpine village are welcomed by the sweet scent of warm strudel and orange punch at the open-air market. The village lies on Italy's border with Austria and has a Teutonic vibe. You'll find narrow cobbled streets connecting frescoed cottages adorned with images of giants and warriors. The skiing haven was once under the Austro-Hungarian Empire but retains its local charm.
Calcata (Lazio)
A settlement has stood in this Lazio region spot since prehistoric times. The spellbinding scenery includes a car-free hamlet hanging precariously over a cliff. The ancient cave dwellings blend seamlessly with the landscape, and the intrepid can navigate a labyrinth of moss-covered cobbled alleyways, tunnels, and wall openings. This hippie haven is perfect for those seeking a detox from city life.
Mount Circeo (Lazio)
This protected natural reserve is great for trekking, canoeing, and snorkeling. Locals claim it's where the sorceress Circe bewitched Odysseus in Homer's Odyssey. Visit its pristine beaches and lakes, or explore its pastureland tended by grazing buffalo and watermelon fields. Ancient Romans loved circling here for lavish detox retreats.
Pentedattilo (Calabria)
This ghost town in rural Calabria offers a fascinating exploration. Hike the rocky slopes of Mount Calvario, shaped like a giant hand with five fat fingers pointing to the sky, and you'll find the abandoned village of Pentedattilo. Revived by local youth groups and artisan boutiques, the village offers an intriguing blend of past and present.
Sirolo (Marche)
Sirolo is a beautiful seaside village in east-central Italy's Marche region. Known as a "pearl of the Adriatic," Sirolo boasts stunning beaches and the famous sea stacks, "Faraglioni." The medieval district is a car-free maze of narrow alleyways, aristocratic palazzos, and breathtaking views.
Gravina (Puglia)
Gravina, nestled in Italy's southern Puglia region, offers a unique blend of ancient cave dwellings, rock churches, and a breathtaking pedestrian bridge that served as a film location for the latest James Bond movie. History enthusiasts can tour a network of tunnels and caves filled with artifacts, while foodies can enjoy gourmet products at the annual Saint George's Fair.
Tenno (Trentino-Alto Adige/Süd Tirol)
Tenno is a lesser-known gem near Lake Garda. Silence reigns here, with its medieval castle offering panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding Alps. Explore the scenic village, enjoy the pristine beaches of Lake Tenno, and visit the nearby hamlet of Canale di Tenno, known for its traditional buildings and lively festivals.
These lesser-known destinations provide a refreshing break from the crowded tourist spots and offer a chance to truly experience Italy's authentic culture and traditions.
After skipping the pricey hotspots, consider traveling to Lake Posta Fibreno in Lazio for a serene escape. Here, rent a paddleboat and enjoy a picnic amidst the locals and beautiful scenery.
If you're in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Süd Tirol region, make sure to visit San Candido, a Teutonic village with a fresh baked strudel and orange punch welcoming you at the market.
