amalfi- italy

Amalfi based on the picturesque and winding Mediterranean Coast of Southern Italy. Dramatic views, sparkling blue sea and a riot of colourful flowers, trees and shrubs, particularly at Spring time. Easy access to a range of the must see tourist sights connected by the ever busy narrow roadway....just takes Italian time. So take your pick , which is it to be....Naples, Pompei, Herculaneum, Sorrento, Positano or Capri.

Taster Tours

Amalfi is a great place to take time and use those feet, to wander the narrow streets , despite being busy with people and traffic. Full of interesting places to discover and explore ....and in the less busy areas churches, quiet shady squares, cascading bougainvillea and the splendid views from the Terrazza dell’Infinito. Amalfi Cathedral in the Plazza del Duomo, dates back to the 9c and has subsequently  been added to and redecorated several times....definitely worth visiting....but cover those shoulders and exposed legs. The Cathedral of Ravello has Numerous sculptures and unique decorative features. The Museum of Maritime History can be found in an ancient shipyard displaying model ships alongside architectural and sculptural remains. The Museum of Paper in a former paper mill , provides a history of the previous once vibrant industry of making parchment by hand.

The Sita bus company is a good way to travel in the area between Naples to Positano. The coast road makes so many must see places really accessible and without the hassle of driving on the congested roadways and then parking. A ferry service which links Positano, Amalfi and Salerno is a quick and efficient way to travel and visit. Tour companies are another option to take you on the  various coastline tours....a great way to see the pastel coloured houses as they tumble precariously down the cliff faces towards the sea. A visit to Capri by boat is a must,  for its rugged landscape, small streets of designer shops and cascades of bougainvillea. Piazetta a public square bounded on each side with four cafes, serves a myriad of tourists, from dawn till late....great for mixing with the locals at night.  A cable car provides the most stunning views, but is very popular, so expect queues. Hiking trails are available at various parts of the island for those more energetic.

 The Marina Piccola has an eye boggling display of the worlds most expensive yachts. A boat trip to the Blue Grotto, a cavern where the sea glows an electric blue is available from the public quay side. For a more effortless visit, maybe book yourself onto an organised tour with one of the local tour guides. Pompei near Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An amazing place which provides a snapshot of Roman life which was buried under the ash of the eruption  of Vesuvius AD 79. Buildings and streets with the ancient cart wheel imprints are there for all to see, spread over the 100 acres. As you wander around this vast settlement, its former life is easily imagined. Comfortable shoes and a sun hat is absolutely vital. Herculaneum is another Roman site nearby , which was also previously buried under the ash , but is much better preserved, circa 6-7c BC. A minimum of 2hrs will be needed to give fleeting justice to these insights of Roman life.

Time to Linger

Pasticceria Andrea Pansa tempts you to an array of mouth watering desserts, it may just become one of your regular haunts on this trip. Local shops are abundant with colourful displays of locally made ceramics and in contrast, simply designed linen clothing in the most elegant and subtle of colours. Lemoncello a local liqueur, is made in local factories, from the lemons so lovingly grown and harvested from the narrow terraces of the inner land fall. Doors are open to visitors to see the process at first hand and of course the inevitable tastings. Cafes, bars, galeteria’s and restaurants are tucked into corners, alleyways and squares. Open from dawn till dusk with fayre to suit your every desire and need. A different place for every time and mood all bursting with tourists and frenetic waiters....I will let you choose.