B&B La Ginestra

The views were magnificent, and the place felt charming and friendly.

Gianluca and his wife made us feel right at home. They were exceptionally kind, and their welcome was impeccable. They also gave us useful information about things to do near the majestic Raganello River Canyon. Even just by the riverbank, it was a truly enchanting experience. The owner is a travel expert too, having worked in a travel agency. Breakfast was generous and delicious, with his wife's wonderful tarts. It was served perfectly at B&B Belvedere next door, which the owners also run. The comfortable rooms are just steps from a splendid view of the Raganello Gorges, in a magnificent natural setting, close to restaurants and shops. The nearby Carabinieri station and wide adjoining lanes also make for safe parking. I highly recommend it, especially for anyone who loves trekking. The trip is worth it.

We arrived as guests and left as friends, sorry to go. The whole family running B&B La Ginestra and B&B Il Belvedere looked after and pampered us, and everyone was extremely helpful. A special thanks to Gianluca Colaci, “the owner,” who was friendly, always around, very patient, and generous with advice and information. These two B&Bs are in the highest part of Civita, right by the Belvedere overlooking the famous Devil's Bridge. The comfortable rooms are well furnished, air-conditioned, and spotlessly clean. The buildings have been renovated in keeping with the local architecture. Parking is nearby, and the property is within walking distance. Civita, in the province of Cosenza, is called “Cifti” in Albanian, and is an ancient settlement. Its small community of 900 people still lives with its Italian and Albanian identities side by side. In the morning, they serve a generous sweet and savory continental breakfast with homemade local specialties. The location is also handy for the other well-known places nearby: Gole del Raganello for trekking along the stream, Borgo Laino for rafting on the Laos River, and Villapiana Lido, with the sea just 20 km away or a 15-minute drive. It’s an oasis of peace and relaxation. We’ll be back soon!

The people were absolutely wonderful, and our room was impeccably clean. Breakfast was generous and delicious, with everything from croissants to freshly picked fruit, fresh-squeezed juice, and homemade tarts.