Praia a Mare: Coast, Isola Dino and Italian Culture

Praia a Mare lies where the mountains of Pollino National Park reach the sea. The approximately five-kilometre-long coast alternates between freely accessible beaches and equipped beach areas.

Isola Dino and Protected Coastal Landscape

The most distinctive feature is Isola Dino opposite Capo dell’Arena. It covers approximately 50 hectares and reaches a maximum height of 100 metres. Several sea caves have formed through the erosion of the rock. Isola Dino is also designated as a Natura 2000 site of Community importance (SAC); this designation dates from June 2017. The limestone cliffs are home to the largest population of Primula palinuri in Calabria. This endemic species has a small distribution range. Anyone interested in coastal landscapes and their distinctive plants will find geological formations and regionally limited flora here.

Art, Faith and Historic Buildings

The Museo Comunale di Praia a Mare houses a permanent collection of modern and contemporary art with more than 200 works. The works were donated by Italian and foreign artists. The Santuario Madonna della Grotta is a place of worship at the foot of Monte Vingiolo in Praia a Mare, located at approximately 90 metres above sea level. Every year, the statue of the Madonna della Grotta is carried through Praia a Mare in a three-day procession from 14 to 16 August.

Historic buildings include the Torre di Fiuzzi and the Castello dei Marchesi Cosentini d’Ajeta. The Torre di Fiuzzi dates from the 16th century and is 12 metres high. It was connected to the watchtower at the western end of Isola Dino; together, the two buildings were used to transmit warnings in the event of danger. The Castello dei Marchesi Cosentini d’Ajeta is located in the Bay of Fiuzzi at 91 metres above sea level, opposite Isola Dino.

Water and Air Activities

If you would like to experience the area actively, Aqua Experience Praia offers sailing courses in the waters around Isola Dino. The services also include SUP excursions with certified guides, as well as the rental of pedal boats and Big SUP equipment. Tandem paragliding flights with FlyTirreno are accompanied by a professional flight instructor from the Ae.C. Riviera dei Cedri school. Access to Isola Dino is only possible from the side facing the coast. Small boats can dock at a landing stage there and bring people ashore.

Family Activities and Orientation on Site

For families, AquaFans offers a small amusement park in Praia a Mare. Events and shows take place there every day, some of which are dedicated to children. The Palazzo Esposizioni serves as an information centre for tourists and visitors exploring Praia a Mare, and cultural events and activities are organised there.

Other Destinations in the Same Region

If you would like to extend your travel planning beyond Praia a Mare, you can also view Altomonte, Tortora Marina, Amendolara, Cutura, Cetraro, Fagnano Castello, Belvedere Marittimo or Amica.

To the higher-level travel overview: Cosenza.