Villaggio Turistico La Mantinera

This is an all-Italian campsite, with most of the focus on apartments and bungalows. It's close to a beautiful beach, though the site is mostly occupied by caravans belonging to year-round guests. The pool is nice and big, but costs €4 per person and closes between 2 and 4. Wi-Fi and the camping train to the beach are free, while a sunbed and umbrella cost €7,50. There's loud entertainment at the pool, restaurant, and across the street. If you want an Italian experience, it's a good place. If you want somewhere quiet, go elsewhere.

If you want to see how everyday life blends with Calabria's local way of doing things, this is a good place to come. Some attitudes may not be your cup of tea, but let the locals guide you. I don't think you'll regret it.

We had a really fun family stay here. The young entertainment team, with CIRO leading them, brought so much energy and passion to what they do. Their group chemistry was obvious, and the little theatrical sketches had us laughing. They made the trip memorable.

We spent just one night here on our way from the UK to Sicily, and that was enough. The pitch was nothing special and covered in ants. The toilets near us were all squat toilets, with no sit-down option. The next morning, the cafe was crowded and people kept pushing in. My friend's battery pack was stolen from the toilet, too. When I asked at the cafe if I could charge my device, the guy tried one socket and handed it back. There was another free plug right beside him, but he didn't seem interested in helping. If you've got £30, keep it for the next campsite.