The rugged southern shore dividing the Bay of Naples from the
Gulf of Salerno is a restful and picturesque area. Miniature towns
shelter in precipitous coastal ravines and tranquil seas calmly lap
the shores of quiet pebbled beaches. The Amalfi Coast is a great
relaxation spot from which to enjoy coastal Italian culture.
Stretching between the towns of Postiano and Vietri sul Mare,
near Salerno, the area is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and
towering mountain cliffs that plunge into the Mediterranean Sea.
Precariously perched and threatening to tipple into the sea, the
small town of Positano is a great attraction for tourists with its
cluster of multi-coloured houses and remarkable setting. A
cliffside stairway provides the perfect vantage point from which to
admire its glorious sea vistas.
Four miles (6km) down the coast is the quaint town of Praiano
framed by caves, castles and sharp cliffs. A stroll from here
towards Amalfi will take one to a ramp leading to Marina di Praia,
a 400-year-old fishing village nestled in the embrace of a tiny
ravine. Another notable stop between Praiano and Amalfi is the
Grotto dello Smeraldo. The busy seaside town of Amalfi basks in the
glory of its longevity as the first Sea Republic of Italy and as
the hometown of Flavio Gioja, the inventor of the compass. It is
referred to as the 'pearl of the coast' and has a bit of everything
for the weary traveller. A pebble's throw away from here is the
quiet village of Atrani. Its tranquil beach rests languidly on the
water's edge against a superb backdrop of mountains. Further down
the coast is Minori, notable for its lemon exports and a gentle
place with villas and beaches to explore. The quiet town of Ravello
retains the charm prized by Bocaccio who dedicated part of his
famous work, the Decameron, to the town.
The coastal road that twists its way between the rocks affords
glimpses of the small villages, bays and inlets, and a journey
along this southern route will take travellers to towns of
worldwide fame as well as to lesser known spots of equal enchanting
beauty.
