Located in the center of the Amalfi Coast, and at the foot of Mount Lattari, Positano is protected from northern winds, creating a dry and mild climate most of the year. Upwards from the town are the peaks Conocchia, Campo de "Li Galli" and Paipo, where travelers come upon waterfalls and unique tropical plants. To the east, across the water, the Punta Licosa and island of Capri are visible, as well as the archipelago of Li Galli.
At the foot of town, locals and visitors alike get their feet wet at the Spiaggia Grande, which was formed from volcanic sand and small stones, creating a dark hue along the coastline. Less-populated, smaller beaches include Arienza and Fornillo, which hosts a casual beach bar. The Grotto La Porta gives access to a large cave where Palaeolithic Era remnants have been discovered.
Less than 4,000 people call Positano home on a year-round basis, with tourists filling the dozens of inns and guesthouses in the summer months. The Euro is the main currency in Italy, with plenty of local goods to purchase, particularly in the textile trades. Nationally recognized fashion labels from Positano are in big demand, as well as eclectic footwear, such as wooden and cork clogs, sandals and cloth slippers with rope soles.
The buildings of Positano cling to the rock face of the mountain, with several historical structures towering above them all. The Roman Villa Romana is a prominent set of eight defense towers built by the Viceroy of Spain in the 16th century. The oldest and most recognized architectural structure is the cathedral of St. Maria Assunta, topped with a massive tile majolica dome. Inside, it houses the fabled icon of the Black Madonna, which dates back as far as the 10th century.
Life in Positano is centered around the coastline, with maritime delicacies featured prominently in local cuisine, infused with citrus from the dozens of lemon and orange groves. Fresh extra virgin olive oil comes from the town's farmers, and is the base ingredient in most cooking. Positano also has an ancient pastry tradition, with centuries old recipes that include Torta Positanese, Delizie al Limone and Babarese (a babà filled with cream and wild strawberries.)
Positano and the Amalfi Coast can be accessed by train, car, bus, helicopter and by sea (including boats, hydrofoils and ferries.) During the summer season, boats make connections to Positano from Naples, Sorrento and Salerno. The closest airport is Naples, 19 miles away, or there is train and bus service from Rome, approximately 135 miles. Positano is completely pedestrianized, with parking lots on the outskirts offering porter service into town for supplies and visitors' luggage.
