Amalfi Coast vacations

Many come here for the speedy boats and cars but, really, walking is the best way to go. The Amalfi Coast is so heart wrenchingly beautiful, from cliffs and coves to ancient culture, doing it speedily is a sure fire way to miss all the best bits. Walking through ancient lemon groves and vineyards or along the Path of the Gods, where you will indeed feel as if you have died and gone to heaven, takes you into the real Amalfi. Where farmers tend terraced holdings, fishermen carry catches up hundreds of ancient stone steps, and shepherds still tend their sheep. Or walk the Valle delle Ferriere National Park with ancient woodlands and refreshing waterfalls in the hills overlooking Amalfi town. Another stunning trek is to Mount Tre Calli with magnificent views.

Apart from the coast it’s the Amalfi mountains, the Monti Lattari, that dominate the landscape and proffer the prettiest of hiking routes. Part of the greater Apennines range, they stretch along not only the Amalfi Coast but also the Sorrentine Peninsula. Go on a guided small group tour or on a tailor made, self guided one.

Don’t miss out on all the ancient culture along the Amalfi Coast, such as the emperors’ villas on Capri, the Greek temple in Paestum and, of course, nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum. Contemporary culture is, of course, best savoured through the region’s famous cuisine. Eating here is done alla campagna, or Campania style – the main region of the Amalfi Coast, with Naples also bringing a strong influence. Everything is based on its fine local produce, superb seafood, tomatoes, herbs, lemons and more lemons.

The history of the region is also fascinating, having been an independent maritime republic and shipping hub for centuries. Other industries thrived here as a result, such as iron and paper making with remains of various mills and foundries in Valle delle Ferriere Natural Reserve. Maritime culture and heritage is celebrated in many of the region’s festivals, such as Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics, Sant'Andrea in Amalfi town and Feast of the Fish in Positano to celebrate the end of summer.

If ever there was a place to cycle and feel the sea breeze in the air, the Amalfi Coast must be it. Discover inland canyons, ancient villages, the Greco-Roman city of Paestum and nearby Cilento National Park. Don’t worry about the hills either, as you can hire an electric bike if you prefer. And always pack a swimsuit in your pannier.