Calabria
Somewhat simplistically touted as "the new Puglia", Calabria has around 800km of pristine coastline, touching both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas from its position as the "toe" of Italy. At the narrowest point, Sicily is only 2km away, and there's an extraordinary overnight train (which briefly boards a ferry) to transport you all the way to Catania overland. First-timers should consider the picturesque coastal town of Tropea, or one of the few luxury hotels such as Praia Art Resort, Villa Paola and Baia del Sole. Aside from postcard-perfect beaches, the main draw here is the vibrant cuisine: this is the home of 'nduja (spicy sausage paste), bergamot (the citrus fruit that flavours Earl Grey tea, and one that sneaks into many Calabrian dishes) and prickly pears, as well as excellent seafood, rustic home cooking and some of the spiciest dishes in Italy (thanks to the ubiquitous red chilli pepper).