Dino Island: An Untouched Oasis on the Calabrian Coast

Located off the coast of Calabria, Dino Island is one of the most fascinating natural gems in Southern Italy. This small island, situated in front of the town of Praia a Mare, is a must-see destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and marine adventurers. A treasure trove of wonders, dotted with enchanting sea caves where untouched nature, history, and legends intertwine to create a unique experience.
Covering an area of about 50 hectares, it is the largest island in Calabria, a true paradise characterized by wild and lush nature. The Mediterranean vegetation that covers the island includes maritime pines, holm oaks, broom, and a variety of wildflowers that, especially in spring, create a spectacle of colors and scents.



One of the main attractions of Dino Island (often called Isola di Dino) is its spectacular sea caves. The Blue Cave, named for its incredible blue color that reflects off the interior walls, is one of the most famous. This cave, accessible only by sea, offers a breathtaking display thanks to the play of light created by the refraction of sunlight through the crystal-clear water. Other notable caves include the Lion’s Cave, named for a rock formation at the entrance that resembles a lion's head, and the Monk’s Cave, linked to local legends that tell of a hermit monk who supposedly lived there centuries ago. These caves, with their stalactite and stalagmite formations, offer a unique exploratory experience.
Dino Island is not just a natural paradise but also a place rich in history and legends. According to some sources, the island gets its name from the Greek word "dina," meaning vortex, likely due to the surrounding sea currents. Even today, some local stories speak of hidden treasures on the island, such as that of the pirate Dragut, a fearsome Ottoman corsair from the 16th century, who is said to have used Dino Island as a base for his raids.



Visiting Dino Island is relatively simple, thanks to the numerous organized excursions departing from Praia a Mare. Several companies offer boat tours that allow you to explore the sea caves, go snorkeling, or simply enjoy a relaxing day on the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. You can rent kayaks or canoes to reach the island independently and discover its wonders in complete freedom. Although there are no accommodations on the island, its proximity to the coast makes it easy to plan a day visit, with the option to return to Praia a Mare in the evening. A typical excursion might include a visit to the top of the island, where an old watchtower stands, built to protect the coast from pirate raids. From here, the view spans the entire Gulf of Policastro, a natural panorama of rare beauty, especially at sunset.

It is important to remember that Dino Island is an area of great natural value, subject to environmental protection measures within a marine protected area. It is essential to respect the environment, avoiding leaving waste and damaging the local flora and fauna. Local authorities and associations constantly work to preserve this corner of paradise, ensuring that its ecosystem remains intact and that this paradise stays untouched for years to come.

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