The beloved illustrated children’s book Strega Nona, first published in 1975, has core literary themes of punishment, authority, and trust. However, the original book and the following books from author Tomie dePaola about Strega Nona have not gone viral on TikTok because of these core themes. Like nearly everything else on TikTok, it is all about the aesthetics.
The Strega Nona aesthetic is one of comfort, home-cooked meals, and wool items that look homespun. Somehow, Jacob Elordi and Olivia Jade have become Strega Nona-style inspirations, as have big crock pots, cooking soups, and stoneware. “Strega Nona core is very much my vibe for 2024, being old in spirit and hunched over a pot,” Caroline Goldfarb told Grubstreet all the way back in January.
Much like the Frazzled English Woman trend, Strega Nona Fall is less about being “put together” and more about moving through the world comfortably, having endless soup on hand, and never quite feeling the winter’s chill even as cold weather gets more severe. This doesn’t just have to extend to your personal style, though. The Strega Nona way of life can also apply to all of your fall travel plans.
The books are set in the Calabria region of Italy, which is full to bursting with accommodations that feel ripped out of a dePaola book. Think stone floors, ambling vines, quaint villages, and rolling hills. If you are desperately seeking out the exact vibes of Strega Nona, Strega Nona’s Magic Lessons, Strega Nona and Her Tomatoes, or especially Strega Nona Goes on Vacation, these spots are for you.
Here are a few locations to help inspire your next trip where you can live out your Strega Nona fantasies in Calabria. And if you can’t make it all the way to Calabria, you can find other great cozy fall towns and Strega-coded autumnal US vacation spots.
With wooden roofs, a garden dining area, and panoramic views of the surrounding hillsides and the Ionian Sea, there’s no shortage of literary magic. You will also have access to fantastic Italian cuisine cooked fresh daily.
Engage in some childlike wonder by staying in an honest-to-goodness castle where you can also get your fill of comforting meals, with daily buffets offered at the property.
Channel all of the Strega Nona on Vacation vibes at this property, just 328 feet from the sea. The bright yellow walls and stone floors will make you feel like you’re sitting in your very own illustrated tale.
Santa Caterina dello Ionio, Italy
This three floor villa is nestled in an incredibly charming Calabrian village straight out of Tomie dePaola’s books. There’s a fully equipped dining and kitchen space, so you can have the complete experience of making pasta by hand just like Strega Nona does.
This little B&B is a perfect spot for those who want to really feel ancient charm. The property is in a 17th-century structure, with all the antique details you would expect.
Looking for more travel inspiration?
If you’re ready for an adventure but not sure where you’d like to go or what to do, we’re on it. The best new hotels opening up around the world. The most exciting places to travel without a passport. The world’s best beaches, as ranked by travel influencers. It’s all here along with all the travel news you need to stay informed and inspired.
