Summer 2024 marks the long-awaited return of the Train of the Gods, an initiative that promises to reveal the wonders of Calabria aboard a charming vintage train. This extraordinary project, born from the collaboration between the Calabria Region, the FS Foundation, the Ferrovie in Calabria Association, and the municipalities of Bagnara Calabra and Tropea, offers tourists the opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Calabrian Tyrrhenian coast.
Welcome Aboard the Train of the Gods
The Train of the Gods, with its historic “Centoporte” carriages from the 1930s and “Corbellini” carriages from the 1950s, promises to carry over 700 passengers on a fascinating journey through time. This historic train, pulled by an electric locomotive from the 1970s, will travel two breathtaking routes, connecting the most important tourist sites along Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast.
Imagine admiring the wide beaches of Paola and Vibo Valentia, the citrus groves of the Lamezia plain, and the coves near Capo Vaticano. Watching the rocky cliffs interspersed with small bays of the Costa Viola as the train runs along the sea, offering stunning panoramic views of the Strait. Then, crossing the picturesque villages of Tropea, Pizzo, Scilla, and Bagnara, each with its unique history and irresistible charm.
And to make the journey even more unforgettable, travelers can choose between two exciting itineraries: “Tropea, Village of the Gods” and “Costa Viola By Night.” These special trips are scheduled for Friday 18th, Saturday 19th, Friday 25th, and Saturday 26th August.
Tropea, Village of the Gods
The first itinerary, “Tropea, Village of the Gods,” starts in Paola, with intermediate stops at Amantea, Lamezia Terme Centrale, Pizzo, and Zambrone stations. During this journey, you will have the chance to discover the attractions of Tropea, a village recently awarded the Five Sails by Legambiente.
In addition to the train journey, visits and activities have been organized for each destination. For example, it will be possible to visit Tropea’s historic center and its ancient Cathedral of Maria Santissima di Romania with a guide. And for food lovers, a tasting of a delicious swordfish sandwich, a local specialty, will also be included.
Costa Viola By Night
The second itinerary, “Costa Viola By Night,” departs from Tropea with an intermediate stop at Ricadi-Capo Vaticano, then continues to explore Bagnara, Scilla, and Reggio Calabria. This journey, taking place at sunset along the Tyrrhenian railway, will allow you to admire the evocative scenery of the Islands and the Strait of Messina.
Also included are various activities and visits, including a motorboat cruise starting from Bagnara. Additionally, the 2024 edition features an exclusive novelty: a visit to the air-raid bunker at Reggio Calabria Central Station, dating back to the 1930s.
Tickets and Reservations
Tickets for the Train of the Gods itineraries can be booked online at trenodeglidei.it. For the first 100 travelers who book, a special offer with a discount of over 15% is available. Moreover, fares vary depending on departure and arrival stations.
A Unique Experience
The Train of the Gods experience offers the opportunity to discover Calabria from a unique perspective, combining vintage train journeys with tourist and cultural activities. Whether exploring the beauty of Tropea or admiring the sunset over Costa Viola, this experience promises to be unforgettable.
“Travel is a kind of door through which one steps out of reality to enter an unexplored reality that seems like a dream.” – Guy de Maupassant