THE AMALFI COAST - An area of great natural beauty
WHAT IS THE AMALFI COAST ?
The
Amalfi Coast is an area of great natural beauty and diversity
in the region of Campania in Southern Italy.
Where is the Amalfi Coast? - The coast of Amalfi stretches along the southern side of the Italian Sorrentine Peninsular. It is popular with vistors from all over the world and is a top holiday destination for luxury cruise ships and private yachts.
Part of the Italian province of Salerno on the Gulf of Salerno the Amalfi
coast is situated at the foot of Monte Cerreto and is surrounded by dramatic
towering cliffs and stunning coastal scenery with mysterious grottos,
terraced vineyards, olive groves and fruit orchards.
The Coast of Amalfi in Italy is the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway.
This area of Italy was
cut off from the rest of the world until the mid-19th century, when the
road that links all the small towns along the coast was built.
Amalfi then became an obligatory part of the 'Grand Tour' taken by aristocratic European tourists.
HOLIDAYS ON THE AMALFI COAST
Great artists, writers and composers such as Turner, DH Lawrence and Wagner visited the Amalfi coast to get inspiration, and the area became the holiday destination of the rich and famous with visits from Hollywood film stars like Clark Gable, Greta Garbo and Humphrey Bogart
A narrow road winds along the craggy cliffs of the Amalfi coast connecting the beautiful seaside towns of Amalfi, Positano and Praiano.
The road also
passes through Ravello and Agerola. These towns are characterised by winding
streets filled with art galleries and shops selling crafts, clothes and
Limoncello.
There are of course plenty of places to eat, with restaurants and cafes selling pizzas, pastas, ice creams and all sorts of Italian culinary delights from the region of Campania. Some restaurants will serve fresh locally caught fish - don't miss these!
There is plenty of accommodation in Amalfi Coast - from appartments and luxury 5 star hotels to Italian Villas for rental for your holidays.
BEACHES ON THE AMALFI COAST
The beaches in these pretty
coastal resorts of Italy area have volcanic sand thanks to the activity
of Mount Vesuvius in 79ad.
You have to pay to go on best beaches, but there are also public beaches which are free.
The area is famous for its colourful ceramics and pottery which will make lovely souvenirs of your stay in Italy.
A stay on the Amalfi coast will also make a great centre for visits to the archeaological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Volcano Vesuvius and, of course the city of Naples with its wonderful Archealogical Museum.
VISITING CAPRI FROM THE AMALFI COAST
It is possible to take a ferry or hydrofoil from Amalfi or Positano to explore the Isle of Capri, perhaps taking a climb up to see the Roman Villa once occupied by the Roman Emperor Tiberius or a boat trip to the Blue Grotto.
CLIMATE ON THE AMALFI COAST
The climate of this area of Italy is typically mediterranean, but there some micro-climates to be found in the "Valle delle Ferriere", which have more water where some rare ferns like "woodwardia radicans" flourish.
WALKING HOLIDAYS TO THE AMALFI COAST
The Amalfi
Coast is a wonderful destination for a walking holiday. Get away from
the bustle of the busy towns and take in the breathtaking views from walks
along the cliffs, perhaps ending the walk with an ice cream at a geletaria
in one of the coastal villages.
There are many wildflowers and herbs growing wild along these paths which are not only very pretty, but fill the air with wonderful aromatic scents as you brush past them.
Many tour companies offer escorted guided walking tours along the coast of Amalfi. These tours are an excellent way to see the region and make new friends.
TRAVELLING TO THE AMALFI COAST
Many tour operators organise trips to the Amalfi Coast, or it is very easy to organise your own transport and accomodation. Whichever you choose you won't be disappointed!
Aiports: The nearest airports are: Salerno-Pontecagnano Airport (QSR) 45 km and Napoli-Capodichino (NAP) 74 km
Consider hiring a car to enable you to explore the Amalfi Coast at your leisure.
The AMALFI COAST - A Travel Guide To The Italian Riviera.