You'll Never Forget the Amalfi Coast

I've traveled a fair bit and seen five continents. The world is indeed full of wonders, yet only a handful remain indelibly imprinted on my mind...the Amalfi Coast and the Cinque Terre (read our guide here) are two such places.

I'm not sure why, but the combination of ancient villages tumbling down cliffsides above azure seas is achingly romantic. 

If you've ever been blessed enough to visit this coastline, and particularly if you've stayed at the Hotel Santa Caterina, you'll know what I mean.

Never been to Amalfi?

Then browse through the gorgeous photos of this coast, its villages, and nearby Sorrento and Capri too. I'll bet you'll be adding them to your bucket list... if you haven't already. On the other hand, for those who know and love this coast, I hope the photos will bring back some wonderful memories.

All the photos were shared with me by Jim DeLutes, a really talented photographer who has traveled the length and breadth of Italy in a quest to document all of Italy's unique splendor.

Ravello

Wandering through Ravello's labyrinthine streets, you'll feel as though you've stepped into a painting, with pastel-hued buildings cascading down the cliffside and vibrant bougainvillea spilling over stone walls. At every turn, there's a new vista to behold, from the azure expanse of the sea to the verdant slopes of the Amalfi Coast.

But it's not just the scenery that makes Ravello so special – it's the palpable sense of history and culture that permeates every corner of the town. From the ancient ruins of Villa Rufolo to the grandeur of the Duomo, Ravello is a living testament to Italy's rich heritage.

And then there are the gardens – oh, the gardens! Ravello is renowned for its botanical wonders, including the iconic Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, where fragrant blooms mingle with statuesque cypress trees and trickling fountains.

In Ravello, time seems to slow down, you get to savor each moment and drink in the beauty that surrounds you in slow sips.

There is also a walk; they call it Heaven's Way. that leads all the way down from Ravello into Minori. It is one of the loveliest walks you'll find anywhere on planet earth. Here are the details.

Atrani

Nestled snugly along the rugged cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Atrani whispers tales of a bygone era with its quaint, sun-soaked streets and vibrant piazzas. This pint-sized fishing hamlet, lovingly adorned with whitewashed cottages and cobblestone pathways, exudes an irresistible charm that beckons travelers to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of Italian coastal life.

As the salty sea breeze dances through the air, mingling with the aroma of freshly caught seafood, Atrani comes alive with the laughter of locals and the clinking of glasses. Wander its narrow lanes, where every twist and turn reveals a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Pause in a sun-drenched square to sip on limoncello and watch the world go by, or venture down to the rocky shoreline to dip your toes in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Despite its diminutive size, Atrani boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture, from its ancient watchtowers to its centuries-old traditions. Here, time seems to stand still, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Italy's Amalfi Coast without the crowds and hype of towns like Positano or Amalfi.

Here's more about the town.

Positano

One of the most famous of all the Amalfi towns is Positano.  A lot of the town, restaurants, shops and hotels, is expensive but there are some rather lovely places to stay if you know where to look, one of these is the affordable and lovely Liparlati. 

Despite the crowds and the high prices, you definitely must see Positano. Here's why.

Sorrento

In Sorrento, you'll find yourself enchanted by the bustling piazzas and cobblestone streets, where artisans ply their trade and gelaterias tempt you with their sweet treats. Whether you're wandering through the historic center or sipping an espresso at a sidewalk cafe, there's always something new to discover.

And let's not forget the food! From fresh seafood plucked straight from the sea to mouthwatering pastas and pizzas bursting with flavor, Sorrento is a culinary paradise. Indulge your senses and treat yourself to the tastes of Italy, from creamy burrata to zesty limoncello.

But perhaps the true magic of Sorrento lies in its people – warm, welcoming, and eager to share their slice of paradise with you.

Isle of Capri

Included as one of the top 4 bucket-list islands in the world, Capri is absolutely super special. Discover its secrets here.