Explore the Amalfi Coast: A Guide to Southern Italy’s Coastal Beauty
Southern Italy’s famous coastline runs from Punta Campanella to Salerno and includes the picturesque hilltop towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Brave the narrow, winding coastal road and discover the hidden treasures of the terraced towns and villages along the way.
The Beauty of the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast remains an intriguing mix of sophistication and simplicity. A mere seagull’s spit from the super yachts, chauffeur-driven Mercedes-Benz, and five-star hotels, another more rural reality exists. Around precariously stacked hill villages, farmers still cultivate small plots of steeply terraced land, and their wives make cheese. Down on the coast, tiny fishing communities make a living from the sea.
The link between these worlds is Strada Statale 163 – the ‘road of 1,000 bends’ – commissioned by King Ferdinand II of Naples and completed in 1852. It hugs cliffs and deep gorges for 40km, slicing through lemon groves and whitewashed villages, rising and dipping above the shimmering sea. Consequently, it is only ever wide enough for two lanes of traffic, with little room for maneuver, so traffic jams are unavoidable. If you happen to be in an accident, well, as the Italians say with a resigned shrug… buona notte.
What to See on the Amalfi Coast
Explore the coastline along the 50km winding coast road from Sorrento to Salerno. In summer, when tourist-coach jams and the lack of anything resembling a parking space add to the chaos, it is often quicker to walk. Moreover, anyone without a head for heights is strongly advised to travel by boat, as there is a regular summer service available between Salerno, Amalfi, Positano, and Capri.
Discover Hidden Gems
As you traverse this stunning coastline, be sure to take the time to discover quaint local shops, traditional eateries, and breathtaking lookout points. Each town offers a unique charm, from Positano’s steep cliffs adorned with colorful homes to Ravello’s serene gardens and Amalfi’s historic cathedral.
Plan Your Visit
When planning your itinerary, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall to enjoy milder weather and fewer crowds. The scenic views along the coast are breathtaking year-round, making any visit to the Amalfi Coast a memorable adventure.
