Palazzo del Diplomatico

Belmonte Calabro, a film-worthy, car-free Borgo high above the sea, is one of my favorite places in Calabria. Here, time seems to have stood still! Palazzo del Diplomatico is a lovingly restored palace that houses three beautiful holiday apartments.

Belmonte Calabro is picturesque due to its stunning location high above the sea, its charming and well-preserved Borgo, and its proximity to the expansive beaches of the Costa dei Cedri and Monte Cocuzzo. Even in high season, you can enjoy a vacation far from the crowds here. I find myself returning again and again because this place offers instant relaxation. It’s no surprise that Belmonte often attracts artists, architects, and musicians from around the world.

The beautiful Palazzo del Diplomatico houses three holiday apartments. My favorite is the middle apartment. It has two bedrooms, a bathroom (small and low—tall Northern Europeans, take note), a kitchen and dining room, a workspace with reliable Wi-Fi, and a stunning terrace with sensational views of the sea and Stromboli!

The attic apartment is also lovely! It features an open kitchen area, a large room with a bed, and a bathroom—a true maisonette apartment. The highlight is the small covered veranda with, of course, sea views! This apartment is equipped with air conditioning.

The newest apartment (I don’t have pictures yet, but I visited it in November 2021) is on the ground floor. It has a spacious living area with a kitchenette, two bedrooms, and a bathroom. It also offers lovely views, though there is (currently) no outdoor space.

Hiking: Take the trail from the sea to the summit of Monte Cocuzzo for breathtaking views! Please let me know how it goes—I still haven’t managed to do it myself!

Visit the former Ex Convento—a former Capuchin monastery—above Belmonte Calabro. It’s now a creative space with a beautiful garden and stunning views. It’s private, but with a little luck (or by asking me), you might gain access.

Enjoy an aperitivo on one of the terraces in Fiumefreddo Bruzio. Then, dine at Osteria Convivo (reserve in advance—it’s often fully booked depending on the season).

Casa Belmonte (2 bedrooms: one with a double bed, one with a 1.5 bed, terrace)

Casa Cavour (1 large room: double bed and 1.5 bed, covered veranda)

Prices per night for 2/3/4 people:

  • January–May: €65.00 / €75.00 / €85.00
  • June: €75.00 / €85.00 / €95.00
  • July: €91.00 / €101.00 / €111.00
  • August: €101.00 / €111.00 / €121.00
  • September: €75.00 / €85.00 / €95.00
  • October–December: €65.00 / €75.00 / €85.00

For stays of one week, a 10% discount applies.

Prices include bed linen, towels, and breakfast at the village bar or delivered to your apartment upon request.
Children under 5 stay free.

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In Detail

  • Three uniquely designed apartments

  • Terrace or covered veranda
  • Car-free old town
  • Ideal for longer stays

  • Breakfast on request

  • Beach reachable in 5 minutes by car

  • Pure relaxation

Your Vacation Spot

Belmonte Calabro—my feel-good place in Calabria! One of many!

Ideas for Excursions around Belmonte Calabro

A typical small village where you’ll find everything you need for your vacation.
  • Ice cream: Visit Gelateria Siculi in Amantea near the castle. The ice cream is still handmade, and the view over Amantea comes free!
  • In August, attend the Filmfestival Guarimba Film Festival in Amantea!
  • Drive to Rende and visit the MAON Museum, which features a beautiful collection from the 18th and 19th centuries. The old town of Rende is charming, and you can enjoy fine dining there!
  • In Belmonte: meet the students of La Rivoluzione delle Seppie Nere. Architecture, design, and art!

  • Try chocolate-covered figs at Colavolpe and take them home as a gift!

Excursion to Tropea

Head to Calabria’s tourism jewel on the Costa degli Dei!
  • Stroll through Tropea’s old town
  • Visit the Norman Cathedral
  • Enjoy stunning sea views from one of the panoramic terraces

  • Explore Isola Bella, the small pilgrimage island just off the coast. The climb is worth it!

  • Admire the portals of aristocratic palaces

  • Take a walk along the harbor