The REAL Italy in a friendly hilltop village

If you opt for a pristine, luxurious, bland 5-star hotel to be found in any city, then stop reading now! But if you'd like to stay in a small friendly village in a 200 year old house; whitewashed walls, forest-green shutters, a few less-than-perfect features!!!, .....but views of sea and mountains, wine on the terrace....then read on! This is real southern Italy with all its' charming foibles!....AND Calabria is fast becoming known as "The Tuscany of the South"! We are in the country! There are no wild parties, no traffic noises, no hordes of noisy tourists, lots of peace and quiet and fresh air. The loudest noises are from the occasional Fish and Potato sellers, and the goat bells! But, Santa Domenica Talao is still ideally placed for both visiting the beaches along the coast, and to the ancient villages dotting the road into the mountains. Lamezia airport is easily accessible, with many flights. Two hours north to wonderfully gritty Naples. The house has a roomy sunny balcony, for alfresco lunches and a glass of wine in the evenings. Please note there is no wifi direct to the house. Enjoy a coffee in the bars in the piazza while you catch up your emails. You have full run of the house, about 70 sq. metres, with a laundry (albeit 'rustic!') below. Great neighbours, who respect your privacy. You can park outside under the trees, there is always room. Its a five minute, at the most, walk to the piazza. We have a wonderful Italian speaking lady, Maria, who will meet and welcome you and show you round the house The villagers are very friendly and there are some English speakers, but actions speak loudly here! One or two French and German speakers too! The little village is home to about 1300 people, small enough to be unique, but large enough to have bars, cafes, baker, 2 butchers, doctor, pharmacy, several small general stores, florist, appliance shop, gift shop, and hairdresser. There is a petrol station 2 minutes away. There is also a museum displaying the town's history. The bar Chiazza, a very short walk away, and Bellavista Restaurant have free wifi, if you don't have a mobile device for your internet with you. So, think of it as a 'detox" from the world!! Enjoy a coffee while you catch up with friends. The Bellavista restaurant serves freshly made Italian food and a great antipasto using their own produce. If you hanker for more excitement, Scalea in August is only 15 minutes away, though Santa Domenica and surrounding villages have their share of gatherings, musical events etc in August as well. There is ample parking close by under the trees. A car is definitely recommended, though you can catch a bus which goes twice a day to the coast at Scalea, and west to Mormanno. The railway station at Scalea links the north with the south and fares are cheap and the trains comfortable and clean. You could fly into Lamezia Terme airport and hire a car there. The house is ideal for those who are seeking a peaceful holiday, in particular, adults who would like a restful or romantic break away from the frantic activity of the cities. Books, chess, cards, board games and dvd's available. Children are welcome but bear in mind that there are steep marble stairs and no playpens!!...Please note the 'crib' is a foldaway travel cot, complete with bedding. It's a drive to the beach and funfairs etc. at Scalea. There is a shower, but no bath if you love to soak in a tub!! Please be aware that if southern Italy is in drought, there is a possibility that town water may occasionally be restricted. However, we now have a water tank plumbed in so the town's stoppages will not be a problem. There is plenty bottled water provided for the plants! We always try to be flexible with check-in and check-out times if at all possible.