The Remarkable Amalfi Drive

Although you may be inclined to spend your whole Sorrento holiday basking in the sun, sipping limoncello and indulging in sumptuous Italian cuisine, it would be a sin to be so close and not take on the famous Amalfi Drive. A short stretch of coastline, winding from Sorrento to Amalfi, dotted by pastel coloured villages clinging to the cliffs that dive into the sapphire waters below; this is the stuff photographer’s dreams are made of.

The narrow road that makes up the Amalfi Drive is carved out of the rocky cliffs, and twists and plunges its way along the coast with magnificent views of the Tyrrhenian Sea accompanying you the whole way. It can at times be a true test of your driving skills, but your bravery is paid off as one of the great Italian jewels is laid open to you.

The town of Sorrento is the gateway to the Amalfi Drive. Perched high in the hills, towering over the Bay of Naples, with magnificent views across to Mt Vesuvius, Sorrento is a popular tourist destination. Not only favoured as a starting point for the legendary coastal drive, it’s a good base for anyone wanting to discover the island of Capri or Naples or take an easy train ride to ancient Pompeii.

From Sorrento, drive to the small village of Sant’Agata Sui Due Golf perched on the ridge of the Sorrentine peninsula. You will be greeted with magnificent views across the Bay of Naples and the Bay of Salerno.

From Sant’Agata, descend towards the coast until you come across the picturesque village of Positano, balancing on the mountainside. This fishing village is quintessential of the Amalfi coast. It’s weathering whitewashed villas clutter the hillside in organised chaos, overlooking a small pebbly beach, adorned with colourful fishing boats. Indulge yourself in Italian seaside life and spend the night at one of Positano’s many hotels. The Amalfi drive should be a leisurely adventure, savoured and not rushed.

Set off early the next morning to avoid the nerving traffic and pass through the small enchanting towns of Praiano, Furore and Conca dei Marini and make your way to the heart of the Italian coastline, Amalfi.

Amalfi is a small but bustling harbour town with plenty of great restaurants and cafés, souvenir shops and pretty narrow side streets perfect for wondrous meandering. It also has a beautiful but crowded beach and a romantic marina docked with mega-yachts of the rich.

Although you have technically reached the end of the ‘Amalfi Drive’ there are plenty of surrounding towns and villages to tempt further discovery on your Sorrento holidays itinerary.

The historic village of Ravello, a 30 minute drive inland from Amalfi is well worth a visit or you could continue along the coast to Salerno. Whilst it doesn’t have the seaside charm of the villages you’ve spent the last few days exploring, this lively port town can keep you occupied for days with its array of historical sights and bustling atmosphere.

About the Author

Paul Buchanan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Author (pbuchanan). Submitted on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 Time: 2:17 PM

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