Riviera dei Cedri

The Upper Tyrrhenian Sea of Cosenza and the Citron of Calabria PDO

Sea

San Nicola Arcella - Elisabetta Cirianni

The Riviera dei Cedri (Citron Coast) is the stretch of Tyrrhenian coastline in the province of Cosenza, famous for the production of Citron of Calabria PDO, one of the most famous native citrus fruits in the world.

Warmed by fiery sunsets, the Citron of Calabria finds its ideal habitat here. Used mainly in pastries and cosmetics, the symbol of the Riviera dei Cedri attracts rabbis from all over the world every year, who come here to choose the best fruits for the Jewish festival of Sukkot (or Feast of Tabernacles), which requires the use of the etrog (citron) in its most prized variety.

The Riviera dei Cedri offers tourists a variety of beaches, alternating between rocky, dark coastlines and pebbly and sandy shores. The Riviera dei Cedri is the starting point for boat trips to discover the two Calabrian islands: Dino Island, in Praia a Mare, already awarded the Blue Flag and Green Flag, and the Island of Cirella, in Diamante, which is also known as the "City of Murals and Chilli Peppers". These two natural paradises are an integral part of the Riviera dei Cedri Regional Marine Park and are perfect destinations for scuba diving enthusiasts. In this area, exploring the seabed, rich in marine flora and fauna, is not only a natural spectacle but also an artistic one, as evidenced by the extraordinary Atlantide underwater museum.

There are many seaside villages not to be missed along the Riviera dei Cedri: from Tortora, passing through Belvedere Marittimo, Scalea, Cetraro and Santa Maria del Cedro, not to mention the inland municipalities that offer excursions to the Pollino National Park, highlighting the proximity of the sea and mountains typical of this area. In addition to confectionery products and cedar-based spirits, you should also try those made with the prized Calabrian Chilli Pepper, the star of a historic festival in Diamante.