The Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana) is a breathtaking 25-mile stretch along the edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula in southern Italy. It features jagged cliffs with sheer 500-foot drops down to the Mediterranean sea and a number of small Italian villages that seem to have been carved into the cliff side. Towns like Amalfi, Sorrento and Positano are filled with white-washed villas that appear to cling precariously to rocky ledges. The coastal towns are in such close proximity to each other that it's quite possible to visit all of them within a day. If you have more time, however, the Amalfi Coast is a spectacular place to linger.
The Amalfi Coast is undeniably the main attraction of the region and the 22-mile stretch from Vietri sul Mare to Positano is known as one of the world's most scenic drives. The road, however, has several treacherous hair-pin turns and many visitors find the drive stressful. There are variety of other ways to travel the route, which include booking a private day-tour, such as Road to Italy, renting a scooter, riding a public bus or exploring the region via one of the many hiking trails.
Road to Italy
Via San Martino Della Battaglia 31
Rome 00185
+011 39 06 443 63816
roadtoitaly.com/day-tours/amalfi-coast-drive.html
Positano's beach, Marina Grande, offers dramatic views of the white-washed or pastel-colored houses nestled in the cliffs above. At its base in Spiaggia Grande is a centuries-old fishing dock that still bustles with fishermen arriving with their daily catch. Walk west to Spiaggia di Fornillo, a quiet spot that can be reached by a trail that offers unforgettable views. Walk east and discover small, lovely beaches and rock formations. Rent a boat and find a quiet sandy beach along the shore or take an excursion to a nearby island, such as Capri, or to the Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto), a natural wonder that features emerald-colored water. Wear comfortable shoes to manage the rock stairs and trails.
Cooperativa Sant'Andrea
Lungomare dei Cavalieri
a 84,011 - Amalfi (Sa
089-873198
coopsantandrea.it
A number of tour operators, such as Pompeii Tours, offer private and group tours to the historic site of Pompeii and the adjacent volcano. Located nine miles from the Amalfi coast, Pompeii features the ruins of a city buried in 30 feet of ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79. It provides a fascinating look at what life was like in an important trading center 2,000 years ago. The excavated area site features a number of buildings, markets and homes. If time allows, drive up Mount Vesuvius for the rare opportunity to walk around the rim of a still-active volcano. Plan to spend at least a day exploring the area and wear comfortable shoes.
Pompeii Tours
Via C. Colombo
06 - 80062 - Meta (Naples)
+011-39-081-5321145
pompeii.org
