Escape to Golden Camp Falerna, where glamping meets Italian charm. Cozy canvas tents, farm-to-table dining, and stunning mountain views await!
There’s something magical about getting away from it all, especially when ‘away’ involves stunning views of the mountains, a cute dog named Vespa, and a donkey on the hunt for love. If you haven’t heard of Golden Camp, Falerna, Calabria’s gorgeous getaway, you’re in for a treat (and not just because the pizzeria in town delivers straight to your tent). This hidden gem is the kind of place that makes you wish every camping trip could involve cozy canvas tents, rustic meals, and breathtaking scenery.
But here’s the thing: Golden Camp isn’t your average campsite. It’s glamping at its finest, and if you’re anything like me—someone who appreciates the outdoors, but enjoys a real bed at night—this might just be the perfect escape. Let me take you through our little adventure at Golden Camp, where my cousin Vittoria, our friend Giovanna, and I spent a memorable night under the stars. Spoiler: it’s as dreamy as it sounds, and you’ll definitely want to book your stay at Golden Camp by the end of this article.
Arriving at Golden Camp, Falerna: The Journey is Half the Fun
Getting to Golden Camp is an experience in itself, but don’t let the word ‘trek’ scare you off. Yes, it’s tucked away in the mountains, but the drive is part of the charm. As we wound our way through the hills, passing olive groves and quaint farms, the views just kept getting better. If you’ve ever been to Calabria, you know that the drive almost always involves making your way through a series of switchback roads and when you’ve been there long enough, they really grow on you.
To get to Falerna’s old town, perched on the hillside and feeling like a scene straight out of a movie, involves such roads to reach it. It was one of those moments where you realize just how much beauty Italy has to offer beyond the usual tourist spots. Plus, when you eventually pull up to Golden Camp, you immediately will feel a sense of calm.
Ilaria and Claudio, the camp’s welcoming hosts, greeted us with warm smiles and good conversation as they showed us around the property and explained all of its ins and outs. Good news—they speak English—which is great for those of us still working on our Italian. Their hospitality sets the tone for the whole experience, making you feel like you’re arriving at a friend’s place, rather than just a campsite (albeit, a really lovely one).
Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort: Staying in a Canvas Tent
When the mood strikes, I like to go camping (yes, proper camping), but glamping? Now, that’s way more my speed. We stayed in one of Golden Camp’s canvas tents, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a page of a travel magazine. There’s something so cozy about sleeping under canvas while still having the comforts of home, like a real bed (hallelujah!) and soft linens. No sleeping bags or rocks poking through the floor here—just pure comfort, with the sounds of nature all around. Even when it started to rain overnight, the layers of thick blankets kept us super warm while the air of the tent was fresh and cool.
What really impressed me, though, was the attention to detail. Ilaria and Claudio have thought of everything, from the cute lanterns hanging outside the tents to the thoughtful touches inside that made it feel more like a boutique hotel than a campsite. While we didn’t stay in the new treehouse (which looks gorgeous, by the way, and even has its own private washroom and shower), I can imagine that’s a whole other level of glamping luxury.
Farm-to-Table Dining, Calabria Style
One of the best parts of Golden Camp is the food. I mean, we’re in Italy—of course the food is going to be incredible—but what makes this place special is that you have options. You can either cook your own meals in their adorable outdoor kitchen (which is honestly Instagram gold) or can order in (or physically drive to) a pizzeria in Falerna for pizza as the cheaper options. However, you can also opt for Golden Camp’s farm-to-table dining experience for €25. We went with the latter because, let’s face it, when someone else is offering to cook you a homemade meal in Italy, you say “yes.”
Ilaria’s great-grandmother used to live in the small house on the property, and now it serves as the kitchen where Ilaria and Claudio prepare meals for guests. The rustic charm of the place is unreal; think wooden beams, an old fireplace, and that cozy, lived-in feeling you only get in homes that have been passed down through generations. The food itself? Simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious. We had fresh fruit, pasta with tomato sauce, potato crochette, olives, cheeses and meats, and bread that tasted super fresh. Paired with a glass of wine (or two…or four), it was the perfect way to end the day. Everything was incredible delicious.
Vespa, Brunello, and the Unexpected Joys of Camp Life
No glamping trip is complete without some four-legged friends, and Golden Camp delivers on that front, too. We had the pleasure of meeting Vespa, the sweetest dog who trots over from a neighbour’s property and will happily hang out with you while you eat (as long as you’re okay with it). She’s the cutest thing and loves a good bum scratch or head rub.
Then there’s Brunello, the resident donkey who is on the lookout for love. He greets guests with enthusiastic ‘donkey calls’ (is that the right term? You know, like “Hee-haw, hee-haw” haha) and seems genuinely thrilled whenever someone comes to say “hi.” Ilaria jokingly mentioned that Brunello is still looking for a wife, so if you know of any eligible bachelorette donkeys in Calabria, please let them know. His pen is cozy, but it’s clear he’s ready to share it with a special someone.
Glamping Perfection for Couples and Families
As I mentioned before, I went to Golden Camp with my cousin Vittoria and our friend Giovanna, and while we had a blast, this place seems like it was really made for couples and families. There’s something about the peaceful setting, the cozy tents, and the opportunity to really unplug that just screams “romantic getaway.” That being said, if you’re planning a trip with a group of friends and you book out all the tents (and maybe that dreamy treehouse), it could make for an epic weekend getaway.
For families, Golden Camp is ideal. The kids can run around the fenced-in property and explore while the adults relax with a glass of wine and take in the scenery. If you’re looking for some local flavour, the nearby town of Falerna has plenty to offer, from those aforementioned pizzerias to charming little cafés where you can grab a cappuccino in the morning after check-out and people-watch to your heart’s content.
A Glamping Getaway You Won’t Forget
Golden Camp, Falerna is a place that stays with you long after you leave. Maybe it’s the sense of history, knowing that the land has been in Ilaria’s family for generations, or maybe it’s the simple joy of waking up in a canvas tent with the sounds of nature all around. Whatever it is, there’s something special about this place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden slice of paradise.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or even a fun glamping trip with friends like us, Golden Camp is the perfect destination. The combination of rustic charm, modern comforts, and warm hospitality makes it a must-visit for anyone travelling to the beautiful Italian region of Calabria.
All in All
Ready to experience the magic of glamping in Calabria for yourself? Book your stay at Golden Camp and discover why this hidden gem in Falerna is quickly becoming a favourite among travellers. Whether you’re sipping wine on the wooden swing, hanging out with Vespa and Brunello, or just soaking in the stunning mountain views, you’re guaranteed to leave feeling refreshed and inspired. Trust me, you’ll want to come back again and again.
Falerna and Golden Camp are waiting—so, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and get ready for an unforgettable glamping experience in the heart of Italy’s south.
Wish you showed a glimpse of the stunning mountain views. I feel like that would have pushed me to sign up!
OMG the fairy treehouse is the best. But glamping has never looked so inviting, especially with the breathtaking views and outdoor showers. The proximity to the beach just seals the deal!
What a beautiful spot to stay in Calabria. My family is from Calabria and we haven't had a chance to visit. This is a spot I would love to rent when we eventually do go for a visit.
Loved your account of glamping in Calabria, a place I had never even heard of before. I've always wanted to visit Italy, and glamping - what a magnificent way of experiencing it. I'm going to have to spend more time on your site!