Italy - Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, a unique UNESCO World Heritage Site! This region of the southern Italian coastline stretches from the western tip of the peninsula near the island of Capri to the outskirts of Salerno. We have included a course stay in Sorrento, which is not really part of the coast, but which deserves a visit and allows to see Pompeii. Our choice of accommodation in Sorrento was Hotel Mediterraneo. The unique location on the edge of the ocean with spectacular views and its location just 1.2 kms from the tourist center were decisive for us. In addition, breakfast is served in the Vesuvio restaurant with panoramic views. For lodging on the Amalfi Coast, our choice stopped on the village of Positano and the magnificent Palazzo Murat. The hotel has a private parking, essential on the coast, and a beautiful garden in its inner courtyard which guarantees tranquility despite the popularity of Positano!!! There is a small pool and it is the perfect place to have breakfast.

Sorrente:

Hôtel Mediterraneo, 85 Corso M Crawford, www.mediterraneosorrento.com

Positano:

Hôtel Palazzo Murat, 23 Via dei Mulini, www.palazzomurat.it

Activities:

Sorrento:

The proximity of Sorrento with Pompeii allows a visit of the place without having to stay in Naples. We opted for a guided tour with an archeology professional who not only ensures a good understanding of the site, but also the true essence of the place. Our guide Marcello Uzzi was excellent, booking on marcellouzzi@gmail.com. You can get to Pompeii by car or with the Circumvesuvian train. The ideal parking for the car is that of the Zeus campsite which is located a few meters from the main entrance of the site, the Porta Marina Superiore. Do not miss this visit!!!

The village of Sorrento also deserves a visit, Piazza Tasso and Corso Italia are filled with cafes and small souvenir shops. It is pleasant to walk around the gardens of the Villa Communale and Giardini di Cataldo to admire the many lemon trees.

Positano:

The village of Positano is really charming, its small port is always lively and there are plenty of small terraces. It is also from this place that the ferries leave to visit the villages of the coast and even in season the island of Capri. The mazes of streets are full of shops that sell local specialties: ceramics, lace and leather sandals. Do not miss the seafront path, the Via Positanesi of America, which goes to the beach of Formillo much quieter than that of the village. In addition, for athletes, we find at the top of the village, the path "Path of Gods" which offers exceptional views after climbing the 1700 steps to access it!

A must stop on the coast is undoubtedly the village of Ravello. Only 25kms separates it from Positano, but plan a good 1:30 hours to get there because the traffic (scooters and buses) and the winding road form a hellish duo !!! Leave early to have a parking spot and a more pleasant visit! Overlooking the sea more than 300m, the village is spectacular. Do not miss the architectural gems as well as the splendid gardens of Villas Rufolo and Cimbrone, unforgettable!

Another essential getaway is the island of Capri. The best way to get there is the ferry leaving from the small port of Positano. It costs about 40E / person and the trip takes about 45 minutes (25 by super ferry). On arrival, take the bus from Marina Grande to Anacapri (2E / person) passing every 10 minutes. You have to visit the magnificent Villa San Michele (34 viale Axel Munthe, 9am to 18h, 8E / person), you can even have lunch at Casa Oliv cafe whose terrace tables offer sensational views. The chairlift of Mount Solaro is also not to be missed !! In addition to the incredible views, the rise is strong in emotions .... 11E / person. Later, we return to the center of Capri to visit the Piazzetta, the gardens of Augustus and the Tragara viewpoint where we observe the Faraglionis.