ItaliAbsolutely, together with Reggio Calabria and Pisticci, will host the fam trip "Unexpected South - beyond the classic Italian journey " for international buyers from 22 to 28 April 2026. Combining nature, culture and gastronomy and encounters with local stakeholders, the event will offer a group of selected buyers a curated immersion into this lesser known yet deeply authentic corner of Southern Italy.
PROGRAMME
22 April - Participants arrive at Reggio Calabria Airport and check into the hotel.
Free time
18.30 Depart for the charming fishing village of Scilla, traditionally linked to the sea monster Scilla from Homer’s Odyssey.
Dinner in Chianalea, often called the “Little Venice of the South” as its houses are built directly on the water. With its narrow streets, typical restaurants, and traditional fishing fleet it has a timeless, romantic atmosphere. Overnight.
23 April - Breakfast and depart for the Tyrrhenian coast of the province of Reggio Calabria. Visits to the little town of Cinquefrondi where a stroll through the historic center will reveal colorful murals and local art projects. On to the Galatro Terme hot springs with, hopefully, time to enjoy a treatment and relax in the spa pools, while in nearby San Giorgio Morgetto the Norman Castle offers breathtaking views over the plain.
Lunch in Taurianova with time to wander the old Medieval streets and soak up everyday Calabrian life.
Dinner and return to Reggio Calabria and overnight.
24 April - Breakfast and workshop with local tourism stakeholders.
11.30 coffee break and workshop until 13.00
Lunch
Afternoon dedicated to the city of Reggio Calabria with the Aragonese Castle, which stands as a historic symbol overlooking the modern urban life, and the striking neo-Romanesque Cathedral which is the largest church in Calabria. The city is renowned for its seaside elegance, sweeping views across the Strait of Messina, and its unique blend of history, art, and Mediterranean charm.
Dinner
Return to Reggio Calabria and overnight
25 April - Reggio Calabria's Ionic Coast
Breakfast and 08.00 departure for some of the most beautiful small towns on the Ionic Coast in the province of Reggio Calabria, famous for its crystal-clear waters and wild landscapes. Mammola is known for its artistic spirit, the unique MUSABA contemporary art park, and its traditional cuisine set against the scenic backdrop of the Aspromonte mountains. Stilo, a picturesque hillside village is famous for its Byzantine church, a remarkable masterpiece of medieval architecture, and Locri, has the archaeological remains of the ancient Greek city of Locri Epizephyrii, offering a glimpse into Magna Graecia’s rich past.
Lunch
Dinner and overnight
26 April 2026
Arrival at Masseria Macchia Relais San Pio & Marina, and check-in
4.00 pm, departure for Pisticci for a guided tour with a focus on the Dirupo and Terravecchia districts, and stopping at the Arte Cultura & Tradizione Ceramics Workshop
Dinner at Il Patio Restaurant, Masseria Torre Fiore
Return to Masseria Macchia and overnight
27 April 2026
Breakfast and depart for Porto degli Argonauti Marina di Pisticci. Visit to the Filaro del Castello di San Basilio (Marina di Pisticci).
Lunch at the Emanto’ Restaurant, Borgo San Basilio (Marina di Pisticci).
3.30 pm, stop at the artisan pastry workshop “Pasticci”, Marconia. Panoramic view of the Calanchi en route and arrival at the Museo Essenza Lucano (Pisticci Scalo). Guided tour and presentation of the tourist attractions of Pisticci and Basilicata, followed by networking between operators (informal meetings between buyers and sellers) and a Lucanian aperitif.
Return to Pisticci, dinner at the traditional restaurant L’Incontro and overnight stay at the Masseria
28 April 2026
Breakfast and transfer by coach to Bari Airport.
Limited availability – we recommend securing your registration as soon as possible.
⤑⤑ To join this event, please write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Events in collaboration with:
