u/mrzn1

Has anyone ever managed to teach a Basenji to walk nicely on a loose leash? Is it even possible? Or at least to pay attention to you when you're out on a walk and respond to commands? 😅

Hey everyone,

Planning a 9-day trip to Calabria from late September to early October (flying into Lamezia Terme, renting a car).

We’re still fully flexible and have time to change reservations, so if you think this whole approach is flawed or have a completely different take on how to spend 9 days in Calabria, please call it out!

The plan is to split the stay into two bases:

1. Civita (4 nights):

We shortlisted four specific hikes: the local Civita viewpoint loop, Monte Sellaro from Santa Maria delle Armi, Timpa del Principe ridge via Colle Marcione, and the Piano Gaudolino loop. Would you recommend this exact selection for late season, or are there better alternative trails in Pollino we should swap in instead?

We’re also considering spending part of a day relaxing at Grotta delle Ninfe (Cerchiara thermal mud baths). Is it worth the stop in early autumn, and is it reliably open and functioning at that time of year?

2. Parghelia (5 nights):

Coastal relaxation, Spiaggia di Michelino, Capo Vaticano, sea kayaking around the cliffs, and evenings in Tropea.

A few questions for those who know the region:

• Civita as a 4-night base: Is 4 nights too long for Civita itself? Does it get completely dead after dark in early autumn, or are there enough open trattorie within walking distance?
• Pollino hiking: How are the trail conditions in Pollino around this time of year? Any specific scenic day hikes you'd recommend?
• Day trip to Arcomagno: Is driving across from Civita to the Tyrrhenian coast (San Nicola Arcella / Dino Island) worth the mountain drive, or does it take too much out of the day?
• Alternative: Would you keep Civita, or switch the inland leg to Sila (Camigliatello/Lorica) or Costa Viola (Scilla) instead?
• While based in Parghelia, is a day trip all the way south to the village of Pentedattilo worth the ~2-hour drive each way, or is it too much driving for what it offers?

Any warnings, restaurant tips, or alternative suggestions are welcome!