Amalfi coast writers, poets and artists have tried for centuries to capture the essence of the dolce vita of the Amalfi coast. A riviera so renowned for his charm that even John Steinbeck in 1953 wrote, "... a dream that seems almost cannot be real, but which becomes true when we nostalgically strays". It is impossible not to be kidnapped by the enchantment of the Amalfi coast, by its nature and by picture-postcard villages, so beautiful they seem to belong to the angels.
On the highway soars Holidays fico d'india, fury, picturesque fishing village. Is placed halfway between the most picturesque towns of the Amalfi coast, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello can be reached in 20 minutes by car and by boat.
Although the Amalfi and its renowned hotels are largely frequented by the international jet-set and the sea guests luxurious yacht, what is striking in this area is that Mediterranean simplicity made of medieval streets paved with pebbles, fresh seafood served in olive oil, bougainvillea-covered dwellings, the sweet aroma of orange blossoms made from lemon and its wonderful panoramas.
Venture along the highway that winds south of Sorrento: is the Amalfi Drive, "the road with thousand and one curve", the more sheer of Europe, with dizzying views over the blue Tyrrhenian Sea rocks. Admired from the top of the belvedere dedicated to the Virgin Mary that dominates, the beautiful Positano with its pastel houses ranging from salmon to cream, vanilla and that seem to be a waterfall that pours into the Bay of Positano.
Built vertically along the side of a mountain, Positano, an isolated fishing village, became one of the favorite places from jet-setters when Kennedy began to come on holiday, in the early 60 's. The best way to appreciate Positano is walk its famous Scalinatella, in an endless ups and downs of steps between the Piazza dei Mulini and linen shops or handmade sandals, or enjoy a coffee on the seafront of Marina Grande, where hundreds of boats are moored colorful. From any where you can admire the Cathedral dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, with its characteristic green majolica tiles and gold. For a different perspective on the city, simply pass Covo dei Saraceni, from where ferries to Capri, Via Postinesi D'america until Torre Trasita. Here you will find the beach of Fornillo, a wide expanse of pebbles between two ancient towers, ideal place to contemplate the beauty of the place while enjoying the fresh grilled fish or an authentic pizza baked in a wood-fired oven and a good limoncello. In the evening there is nothing better than being in a nightclub or in the piano Bar of the Music On The Rock, a cleverly housed in a corner of the cliff, precisely where the beach ends.
For walkers, the View and Nocelle villages, on the hills overlooking Positano, undiscovered destinations are clambering up on beautiful trails. The path of the gods owes its name to the steep ascent – but suitable for climbers of all levels – combining Agerola in Praiano and Positano there until through silent mountains from which you can enjoy breathtaking views.
From the terrace, looking south you can see the city of Amalfi, the first of the maritime republics. During the summer, the feast of St. Andrew, dedicated to the Saint, which gives its name to the medieval church of the 11th century. Along the Valle dei Mulini, distinctive stationery stores offer such souvenirs the famous Amalfi paper. From here you can then go up to the castle of Pogerola, which boasts one of the most beautiful sights of the city on the Bay of Amalfi.
Just above Amalfi, walk up the grand staircase or by car, you reach Ravello, a balcony that offers spectacular views across the Amalfi coast, from Trani to temples of Pestum. This small and charming village at 350 metres above the sea, during the summer season hosts classical music concerts in the gardens of the beautiful Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrione. Nearby you can visit the Cathedral of San Pantaleone, look out at the shops of finely colored ceramic dishes. And finally embark on an invigorating walk of about a mile and a half up to scale, the smallest and ancient coastal town.
Easily accessible from Amalfi or Positano in twenty minutes by ferry, is Capri, the most famous island of the Gulf of Naples, characterized by its narrow streets, small squares, churches and the mysterious blue cave. The real charm of Capri lies in the numerous boutiques of Via Marina Grande or Candy, in the piazzetta extravaganzas, in relaxing and breathtaking landscapes, well-kept gardens. Reaching walk the end of Via Tragara, you will be mesmerized by the famous Faraglioni, three huge limestone monoliths that rise on a beautiful blue-green sea. You will continue up to the cliff to get to the tour of the natural arch, along a path that allows you to admire the most beautiful ancient villas of Capri which Lonely Villa, or the ancient Roman natural cave known as Grotta di Matermania.
Ascending up to Anacapri you can visit Villa San Michele, the most beautiful of the villas of Capri that was the residence of Emperor Tiberius. Legend has it that the sound of the bells of his Church is that the spirit of Tiberius who apologizes for having sentenced Jesus to death. Famous for its views of Calabria which is enjoyed by her Wisteria-covered pergola, rose, honeysuckle and bougainvillea, Villa San Michele is full of antique furniture and marble busts and its belvedere houses a stone Sphinx. Legend has it that sfiorandone hind legs innermost desires will be fulfilled.
Abandon yourself to the magic of the Amalfi coast and being seduced is inevitable. It is no coincidence in his Odyssey, Homer defined it as the land of the sirens.