If renovating an old property in a peaceful location is your dream, then this property with stunning views and a small river with waterfall could be your answer!!
The property is situated in the Comune of San Lucido (CS) approx 50 mins (57km) drive north of Lamezia airport and approx. 15 mins (9km) from the train station at Paola.
Part of the structure of this building dates back to the early 1800’sand is constructed in local stone, with wooden ceiling joists and terracotta roof tiles.
The building is composed of 4 rooms on the ground level and 4 rooms on the first floor, with the first floor being accessed y external stone steps. There is also a third-floor loft space.
A courtyard separates the main building from a building that previously was used for storage of animal feed, a wood burning oven and rustic kitchen.
The land extends for approximately 16 thousand square metre and there are several centuries-old olive trees. Other tree planting includes an olive grove, an orchard, a citrus grove, a section dedicated to tropical fruit plants suitable for the Mediterranean climate and a variety of nut trees (almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, etc.)
A small river runs at the base of the land and long its banks there are also some oak trees and a wide variety of spontaneous vegetation (elm, willow, elder trees, etc.).
The irrigated land, given the position and the microclimate generated by the nearby river, is also suitable for growing fruit and vegetables as well as cereal crops.
The spectacular views that can be seen from this location are varied and range from the enchanting panorama of the sea, with the Aeolian Islands in the background, to the splendid setting of the Coastal Apennines, which is often covered in snow in the winter season.
Given the characteristics of this property, the land and building are well suited for both residential and agricultural-commercial use.
San Lucido is a mix of ancient and modern with the historical centre perched on a rocky prominence supported by La Rotonda sul Mare, which is commonly called the Panoramica from where you can see the spectacular coastline: from U Gafiu to the Ruffo Castle: this particular structure is a noticeable landmark for San Lucido.
U Gafiu is one of the few structures that remains, built from the ancient Rocca Nicetina. Sitting in the main piazza the bar with the same name is where you can enjoy a delicious gelato overlooking the beautiful coastline.
Among the places of interest to see is the Church of the Pietà, which is the oldest place of worship in San Lucido, a small façade nestled between 2 buildings with a small bell tower.
Overlooking the town is the Monastery of Santa Maria del Monte Persano. It was built, around the 11th century, by Basilian monks. In 1893, after a long period of abandonment, the local inhabitants retuned to the church on the feast of Santa Maria del Monte Persano: the first Sunday of September. Currently, the monastery is in the state of ruin, but it is possible to see details of ancient fireplaces, and the stones for the poles that close the large windows and many other details.
The main piazza sits on the Rotunda and you can enjoy a relaxing gelato or aperitivo at the local bars, from there meander through the narrow streets of this lively town to find; café bars, shops, gelateria, restaurants that blend with the more modern grocery stores, pharmacy etc. Also in the summer months it hosts many activities and in August there is the switching on of La Via dei Lampadari, (the street of chandeliers) where one of the traditional streets leading from the piazza is lit with a variety of lights and chandeliers.
Along the beach front are a number of lidos and beach bars, in particular the Scoglio, a rocky area with crystal clear sea, an ideal location for snorkelling!
The towns of Amantea and Paola are a 15-minute drive in each direction and as well as offering year-round facilities and activities host a number of festivals and markets. They also offer a variety of shops, boutiques, supermarkets, restaurants and bars. Paola is the birthplace of San Francesco di Paola with the sanctuary just one of the many churches that can be visited. There is also the Arch of San Francis located in the centre of the city marking its entrance.
San Lucido is also conveniently positioned to explore many other traditional villages, such as Cetraro with its tourist port, Fiumefreddo, Scilla, and more. You take advantage of seasonal activities such as mountain biking at nearby Belmonte Calabro, kite surfing at Gizzeria, rafting at Scalea to name but a few. For a more relaxed approach there is the Terme Luigiane at Guardia Piemontese where you can take advantage of the therapeutic effects of the thermal springs and the spectacular surroundings on offer.
The stunning National Park of La Sila is approx. 75 minute drive away and you can participate in the many year-round activities, including walking, pony trekking, quad bikes and in the winter months, skiing & skidooing or just enjoy the scenery.
Within easy reach via the Autostrada A3 is Reggio Calabria where you will find the Museum that houses the Bronzes of Riace among many other articles of archaeological interest.