I loved Calabria, but am at a loss as to know where to start.
Sarah, our lovely, knowledgeable, unflappable Tour Manager;
Romeo our oh-so-friendly driver of the air-conditioned coach, with the patience of a saint on the Italian roads;
The hotel which gave so much: friendly staff welcoming you into what felt their home, fresh food from its own farm; its own wine which didn't leave you with a headache. I had never been to a wine tasting before where you helped yourself to the wine! Lovely fresh fruit, again from their own trees, available at breakfast, along with cereal, yoghurt, meat, cheese, toast, croissants, cake, and a very good cup of tea - yes they have got that cracked.
At dinner the menu gave a choice a 3 starters, 3 mains (fish, meat and vegetarian), and 3 desserts, and I had the best gnocchi I have ever tasted. The maitre d'hotel was always happy to make a variation to the menu if that was wanted. Fresh fish, didn't know what some of it was, but it tasted good. Clean, comfortable rooms with a mini bar/fridge. Terraces for breakfast (mind the wasps - they went for the meat) and dinner. A comfortable lounge for relaxing.
Very different villages from anywhere I had ever been before - narrow (mostly) traffic free streets. Cheap cafes serving good lunches.
Sila forest walk, which was easy for some, difficult for others (including me), but the sense of achievement when completed was overwhelming. The exposed tree roots were very short part of the walk and did not present any problems.
Earliest start was 8.30 on one day; others were either 8.45 or 9.00.
For anyone thinking about this I would say - go for it. My problem is that anywhere after this is likely to be a bit of a let down - it will have a great act to follow.
Anyone with any questions - please ask. I will answer them if I can.
Sylvia