Cala Costa Viola is a scenic beach located in Villa San Giovanni, a town in the province of Reggio Calabria, Italy. The town is situated on the Strait of Messina and is known for its busy port, which serves as the primary maritime link between Calabria and Sicily.
Cala Costa Viola beach is renowned for its crystal clear, turquoise green sea and its unique view of the Messina pylon and the Calabrian mountain. The beach's natural characteristics include a calm sea, with gravel on the bottom and small rocks that frame the beach, contributing to its picturesque beauty.
Despite its natural charm, Cala Costa Viola is not overly crowded, providing a tranquil and serene environment for visitors. It manages to maintain a wild and unspoiled feel, as a large part of the cove remains a free beach, not dominated by commercial establishments.
The beach is partially equipped with amenities, providing some level of comfort and convenience for beachgoers. However, it is worth noting that there is no parking available at the beach. This lack of parking facilities might pose a challenge for visitors planning to drive to the beach.
To reach Villa San Giovanni, where Cala Costa Viola is located, one can drive along the Salerno - Reggio Calabria motorway and follow the signs for "Imbarchi per la Sicilia". The town is also accessible by train or bus, with the stations situated within a 10-minute walk from the port. Shuttle services from Reggio Calabria Airport to Villa San Giovanni are available as well.
Villa San Giovanni is a popular starting point for those traveling to Sicily, with the main ferry route from the town leading to Messina, known as the "gateway to Sicily". The town itself offers picturesque seafront walks, historic buildings, and churches, making it a worthwhile destination to explore before or after a visit to the beach.
In conclusion, Cala Costa Viola in Villa San Giovanni presents a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Calabrian coastline, with its clear turquoise waters, serene environment, and unique views. Its lack of parking facilities is a minor inconvenience that does not overshadow the overall charm of this picturesque beach.