Calabria Unveiled: An Autumn Adventure
October 2 - 11, 2026
Experience Calabria in the fall, where the sparkling sea meets centuries-old traditions and every glass of wine tells a story of passion. Journey through the heart of southern Italy, savoring authentic flavors that reflect a deep connection to the land and sea. Indulge in menus crafted from local harvests, fresh catches of the day, and carefully chosen wines from small, character-filled cellars, each one a true guardian of Calabria’s soulful heritage. Celebrate the beauty of a region where food, sustainability, and community come together. Adventure and unforgettable memories await in Calabria this autumn!
Group Size: 14 - 18 participants
About Vera Italia:
Vera Italia was born from an idea of connecting Italians with travelers and from the passion to create a future for traditions.
They believe that traditions are the beating heart of a place's culture, and that is why they must be preserved, celebrated and handed down.
Their mission is to explore every corner, alley and street to discover the treasures hidden in the locals who, with humility, carry on the customs that represent the true and simple beauty of Italian culture. They call these people the 'Culture Creators', because they are the ones who give color to the country, keeping alive the traditions that make up their culture.
Without them, Italian culture would not be what is so loved and adored all over the world. Vera Italia is a project that aims to celebrate the local people and offer travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of real Italy.
Lodging
2 nights in 4 star accommodations in the city of Pompeii, 7 nights accommodations in our private castle, Castello Fiuzzi
24 (ish) Meals
Breakfast is included on days 2, 5, & 10. A light "help yourself" breakfast is included at the castle.
Lunch is included on days 2, 3, 4, & 6 - 9.
Dinner is included on days 2, 4 - 10 (apertif on day 7).
16 Cultural Experiences
Authentic experiences with amazing locals who are keeping the traditions of their crafts alive
Local Bilingual Accompaniment
Vera Italia representative and translator will be escorting us on all activities
Tour Director
A Cultured Travel tour director will be with you on site
Private Coach Transportation
From Pompeii, throughout the tour for all experiences, and back to Pompeii
Airport/Hotel Transportation
Roundtrip airport and hotel transport in Naples on arrival and departure days
Some Gratuities
Gratuities for all group events and group tours
Airfare
Airfare to and from Naples, Italy is not included. Any transportation or lodging costs associated with air transportation to Italy (or return from) or any associated parking fees are not included.
Passport or Visa Fees
No visa is currently required for US citizens, but this could be subject to change. A current passport with an expiration date of at least 3 months beyond the length of stay is required.
Food and Beverage
All food and drink which are not part of the hotel breakfasts or specifically included in the program itinerary
Ground Transport
Optional, individual, ground transport (taxis, Ubers, trains etc) you may choose to utilize on your own "free time"
Gratuities Not Specified
Included but not limited to castle staff and tips for meals on your own
Travel Insurance
Highly recommended for all participants; if I could truly enforce mandating this, I would
Jewel Rozanski is a lifelong traveler driven by a deep love for creating meaningful, transformative learning experiences. With a bachelor’s degree in Spanish education and a master’s in educational psychology, she spent 14 years teaching high school, serving as her school district's world language curriculum coordinator, and leading student tours across the U.S. and abroad. Now, as a Certified Travel Advisor and owner of Cultured Travel, Jewel is dedicated to connecting people with the world and with each other. Her true passion lies in bringing incredible individuals together for unforgettable adventures that spark joy, connection, and inspiration.
Cultured Travel was a 2021 recipient of the Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry’s Excellence in New Business Award. In 2023, Jewel and her family moved to Mars, PA and in 2025, she was nominated for the Prestigious Business Leader Award by the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber of Commerce, an honor recognizing members who embody honesty, sincerity, integrity, benevolence, and fairness.
In 2026, she is honored and humbled to begin serving a three-year term on the PNRC’s Board of Directors.
Meet Chiara Barbera, the founder behind Vera Italia.
Born and raised far from Italy, Chiara grew up surrounded by the stories, values, and traditions of her four Italian grandparents. With courage and sacrifice, they left Italy in search of a better future. It is from this legacy that Chiara’s passion was born: to honor the beauty of Italian culture and return to her grandparents’ homeland to do something meaningful for those who remained.
Vera Italia was created with a simple purpose: to build a future for Italian traditions by supporting the people who keep them alive.
With every experience, guests meet the real people behind the culture- the artisans, farmers, fishermen, cheesemakers, chefs, and storytellers who dedicate their lives to preserving la vera Italia. Chiara calls them Culture Creators, and each journey with them helps make this mission possible.
For Chiara, this is more than a mission; it’s a calling. She believes she was placed on this path to fulfill this purpose and is deeply grateful for the opportunity to share it with others.
Grazie di cuore for being here. She can’t wait to welcome us!
October in Calabria is a beautiful time to visit, with mild, comfortable temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Days are typically warm, averaging in the mid-60s to low 70s °F (18–22°C), while evenings can be cooler and refreshing. You might experience the occasional rain shower, but overall, autumn in Calabria is pleasantly crisp and perfect for exploring charming villages, scenic coastlines, and vibrant harvest festivals.
Be greeted at the Naples-Capodichino Airport (NAP) and transported to your hotel right in the heart of the city of Pompei.
Today will be a free day to explore on your own and acclimate yourself to the time change. Gear up, because tomorrow, the structured fun begins!
Breakfast will be included at the hotel
We will kick off our morning with a guided tour of the town of Pompeii, buried in 79AD when Mt. Vesuvius erupted. Visiting this unique site with many fine details still visible, you will be astounded to find out how advanced life was so long ago.
We will have lunch at Habita 79 as a group and pick up our luggage before heading off to Calabria.
We will travel on to our home away from home for the next 7 nights - Castello Fiuzzi in the village of Prai a Mare in the beautiful Calabria region of Italy.
Experience the charm of Castello Fiuzzi, where stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and proximity to Praia a Mare's beautiful beaches create a perfect getaway. This unique accommodation combines rich history with elegant castle architecture and modern amenities.
The castle was originally built in the 12th–13th centuries by Charles, Duke of Calabria, to defend the coastline from Aragonese and Saracen raids during the Norman era. As time passed, its purpose shifted from military stronghold to elegant noble residence. In the 1700s, the castle passed to the renowned Spinelli family. Today, its storied walls invite you to experience a blend of rich history, breathtaking views, and timeless Italian charm making it an unforgettable place to stay.
After a light "grab and go" breakfast at our castle, we will have a 30 minute drive through the countryside to arrive at Belvedere Marittimo.
Immerse yourself in rural life and experience a day steeped in the scents of the land, tradition, and fine olive oil with Frantoio Carrozzino, an olive oil producer since 1960! Start with the olive harvest, just like our grandparents did—among branches, nets, and stories. Mid-morning, we'll stop for a simple and authentic picnic lunch, inspired by the meals his father used to bring to the fields. Then we'll head to the olive oil mill, where you'll follow the olives' transformation into our prized extra virgin olive oil step by step. At the end, you'll take home a small bottle as a delicious memento of your experience.
Mid-morning, we'll stop for a simple and authentic picnic lunch.
The Italian breakfast is a simple ritual, yet deeply rooted in daily culture. A sweet awakening, where the day begins with a frothy cappuccino or a strong espresso, accompanied by a freshly baked artisanal cake. You'll be guided through handmade creations, and you can choose your favorite to enjoy.
Imagine a table under the walnut tree, the scent of simmering sauce, and laughter mingling between glasses of wine. At this Collective Spaghetti Dinner, we come together to share a simple dinner full of flavor and warmth: a homemade first course followed by a selection of local cured meats and cheeses. No formalities, just good food, wine, and an evening filled with the scent of home, laughter, and tradition. Come with a light heart and a fork at the ready: we're waiting for you under the walnut trees!
After our light breakfast at the hotel, we will have an early afternoon of wine tasting followed by lunch.
Enjoy a free evening exploring the charming towns of San Nicola Arcella or Scalea.
An unforgettable evening with a spectacular view of the Calabrian coast illuminated by the twinkling lights that stretch along the gulf. Taste our Pietra D'oro appetizer, followed by a first course of scialatielli with porcini mushrooms and a second course of mixed meat with a side dish of potatoes, all accompanied by a glass of local wine and water.
We will depart Castello Fiuzzi and return to the city center of Pompei where it all began. You will have remainder of the day here to explore and prepare for your flight home tomorrow.
We will enjoy our last dinner together at Habita 79 (our hotel) before we depart for home.
As your Italian adventure comes to a close, it’s time to say arrivederci to the rolling hills, vibrant markets, and unforgettable flavors that have filled your days. With hearts full of new memories and friendships, you’ll journey home carrying a piece of Italy with you. Its warmth, its stories, and the spirit of discovery that brought us all together.
You will be picked up at Habita 79 Hotel and taken back to the Naples-Capodichino International Airport in preparation for your flight home.
