Through all the glamour of the Amalfi Coast, there remains a simplicity that’s rooted in nature. Farmers cultivate steep terraces, artisan producers craft delicious cheeses and olive oil, while fishermen cast their nets and bring back delightfully fresh frutti di mare.
There are 13 towns and villages that make up the Amalfi Coast, each with their own unique essence and quintessentially steep streets. You can reach them all by the scenic 16th century Strada Statale Amalfitana (SS. 163) road, which bewitchingly curves and winds through the cliffside. The ancient town of Amalfi gives the coastline its name, and is a bustling haven filled with a labyrinth of whitewashed houses, alleys and stairways. Situated below the Valle dei Mulini, this town was once at the capital of the maritime republic. The Cloister del Paradiso is a magical garden to explore, and views from the belltower of its historic Arabic-Norman cathedral are worth the 62-step climb up from the Piazza Duomo.
In glitzy Positano, the town where the trendsetting jetsetters gather, you’ll find buzzing bars and chic boutiques filled with handmade leather sandals and signature linen clothing. Heart-stirringly romantic with its faded aristocratic glory, Ravello perches in the mountains. Filled with secluded grand villas and gardens that inspired the German composer Richard Wagner, the town is home to one of Italy’s oldest musical festivals.
Amalfi’s smaller towns are less dominated by visitors, but remain charmingly simple, stop-worthy destinations. Visit the authentic towns of Furore, Atrani, Maiori, and the fishing villages of Cetara and Conca dei Marini. Explore colourful ceramics in the town of Vietri sul Mare, and silk production in Praiano. Taste full-bodied wines in the hilly town of Tramonti, and tuck into the renowned handmade pasta found in Minori.
The Amalfi Coast is home to plenty of well-trodden trails where you can hike through panoramic nature, such as Sentiero degli Dei, the Path of the Gods. With so much to marvel at, it's perfectly clear why the Amalfi Coast is considered the crown jewel of the Neapolitan Riviera.
.ImageUrl)
