Publisher's Synopsis
The Amalfi Coast is, without a doubt, the most spectacular and beautiful coastline in Italy. Moorish style villages cling to the dramatic jagged cliffs, perched over the rippling waves below. The air scented with lemons and wild herbs, and of course, the sea. The villages that string along the Amalfi Coast have cobblestoned streets lined with bougainvillea-covered villas, Arabic arches, and many corners with million-dollar views. The magic of the "Costa Amalfitana" is that while it is a magnet for jet-setters and home to a multitude of ultra-luxury five-star hotels, Michelin starred restaurants and yachts, what characterizes the region is its effortless Mediterranean simplicity. You can base an unforgettable weekend at a romantic small hotel in Positano.Food and wine are highlights of the Amalfi Coast, and should always be a focus on your tours. Fresh seafood, juicy vegetables drizzled in olive oil, aromatic local wines â this is the "materia prima" or raw material that the region is rightly famous for. Local gastronomic gems include creamy Mozzarella di Bufala, and Limoncello made with ripe Sorrento lemons, and San Marzano tomatoes (known all over the world). Traditional dishes are delicious and straightforward, such as Gnocchi alla Sorrentina (with tomato and basil), "pepata di cozze (spicy mussels), and the delicious Spaghetti alle vongole con Pomodoro (spaghetti with clams and tomatoes). Vineyards are scattered through the sun-baked coast and inland in the Sorrento Peninsula and greater Campania. Grapes were brought to Campania by the Ancient Greeks, and cult producers are making fabulous wines with such noble grapes as the white Falanghina grape and the black Aglianico (which means "Hellenica").This guide leads you in a drive in the Amalfi Coast, starting from Salerno and touching Vietri Sul Mare, Cetara, Erchie, Minori, Ravello, Amalfi, the Emerald Grotto, Furore, Positano to arrive in Sorrento. It includes photos and descriptions of the attractions of all the localities touched.It contains many reviews for the best-recommended restaurants that are at the location described.
