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The Amalfitana – Italian Dream Road Between the Sky and the Sea

Travelog · Province of Salerno · September 20, 2023
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  • Amalfi Coast
    Amalfi Coast
    Photo: CC0, pixabay.com
Rugged cliffs, steep slopes, narrow passageways and in between everywhere the sea – the Amalfitana is perhaps one of the most beautiful and exciting coastal roads in the world. Because the 40 km long and very narrow route in the south of Italy is not for the faint-hearted. Sometimes even so narrow that two cars can only pass each other by a hair’s breadth. With a height of about 100 meters above sea level, you get the feeling that you are driving continuously right on the brink. The location on the bluff is, however, the reason for the breathtaking views, which are presented to us permanently.

Awakened from a deep slumber

The Amalfi coast looks back on a glorious history: here, the first Maritime Republic of Italy was founded and established influential trade relations to Syria and North Africa. But very soon, Pisa and Genoa caught up and pushed the region out of business.
Scenic Route · Italy
The Amalfitana
recommended route Difficulty
Distance 49.9 km
Duration 0:48 h
Ascent 3,313 m
Descent 3,353 m

Sorrent‘s steep coast offers spectacular views over the Mediterranean and the coast trip until Salerno.

from Wolfgang Paulus,   Outdooractive Editors
Over centuries, the coastal landscape had fallen into a deep slumber. Only in the 1850s, with the construction of the Amalfitana, it was kissed awake. Sun-seekers from all of Europe discovered the beauty of the wild rugged landscape. The steep rocks, narrow bays as well as the terraces of wine and lemons were inspiring many painters and artists.
Truly a dream coast
Truly a dream coast
Photo: Mihael Grmek, CC BY-SA, Wikimedia Commons

Positano, the pearl of the Amalfi coast

Our trip down the Amalfi coast leads us from Positano to Vietri sul Mare. The narrow road meanders through the picturesque villages, which cling to the rock. Positano is characterized by steep passageways and uncountable steps, which are accompanying us every now and again and help us to get the necessary movement during our stopovers.
Before the Amalfitana was built, the village had been accessible only by boat or over narrow mountain paths. The ideal place to get in the mood of the “dolce far niente” – the sweat pleasure of doing nothing – while enjoying a nice cup of espresso in a charming little café. Many boutiques sell “Positano-Moda”, a rustic style which is designed and made here. The pieces are characterized by their natural material and colorful designs.
View of the coastal town of Positano
View of the coastal town of Positano
Photo: Jensens, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

Enchanted villages and breathtaking sea views

The actual Amalfitana starts at the exit of the village. On the left side, the Lattari mountains tower, on the right side greets us the Li Galli archipelago with its three islands. In between, daring viaducts, gorges and enchanting villages, such as Praiano, appear again and again. To get to Amalfi, Minori, and Maiori we descend to sea level.
Amalfi Coast
Amalfi Coast
Photo: CC0, pixabay.com

Amalfi – touristic center of the coast

Amalfi seen from a boat
Amalfi seen from a boat
Photo: Peter K Burian, CC BY-SA, Wikimedia Commons
Amalfi is one of the most important touristic centers in the South of Italy and at the same time the eponym of the coast. In the summer month, you better avoid Amalfi because then the driving pleasure is threatened by kilometer long traffic jams. The best time to travel there is in early spring or fall season when the inrush of tourists has calmed down but the sun rays are still pleasantly warm.

In Amalfi, it’s a good idea to take a detour to the duomo and the Grotto Smeralda. They are located a few kilometers westwards from the village. We reach the grotto of the Amalfitana over a lot of steps – hardly surprising. But the interior can be explored more relaxed by boat. During the Christmas season, there is a manger underwater.

Local Village · Amalfi
Amalfi
Amalfi

A picturesque coastal town with a typical Mediterranean flair.

from Wolfgang Paulus,   Outdooractive Editors
Cave
Grotta dello Smeraldo

An impressive cave with unusual reflections of light on its inside and a hidden Jesus sculpture

from Wolfgang Paulus,   Outdooractive Editors
In Atrani, the advantages of the lack of large hotels, tourist attractions and above all the lack of parking spaces are just as crystal clear. Here, the original character of the village is still visible. Active people will enjoy the few hiking trails which lead from Atrani over steep stairways to Ravello and alongside the coast to Castiglione del Genovesi as well as Minori.
View from the coast to Atrani
View from the coast to Atrani
Photo: Paolo Costa Baldi, CC BY, Wikimedia Commons

Vietri sul Mare – the ending of the Amalfi coast

The end of the Amalfitana is the seaside resort of Vietri sul Mare. The endpoint of the Amalfi coast lies at the foot of Monte Liberatore. The town's landmark, the Duomo San Giovanni Battista with its beautiful campanile rises on top of the highest point of the historic city.
Local Village · Province of Salerno
Vietri sul Mare
Province of Salerno

A spectacular coastal destination with traditional craftsmanship

from Wolfgang Paulus,   Outdooractive Editors
Those who have not yet stocked up on souvenirs, such as the delicious Limoncello liquor, now is the time to make family and friends at home happy by bringing them handcrafted ceramics. Already in the middle ages, the famous Vietri tiles, vases, plates, and other ceramics were made here. They have a special Mediterranean touch, which is adored by so many and brings a bit of sunshine to daily life.
If you are now in the mood of the sweet pleasure of doing nothing, better get in a convertible, let the warm wind blow through your hair, hum an Adriano Celentano song and enjoy the wild Amalfitana.
Coastal village with panoramic view: Vietri sul Mare
Coastal village with panoramic view: Vietri sul Mare
Photo: Elicus, CC BY-SA, flickr.com
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Miriam Frietsch
Update: September 20, 2023

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Local Village · Province of Salerno
Vietri sul Mare
Province of Salerno

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Scenic Route · Italy
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recommended route Difficulty
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Stories Italy Province of Salerno The Amalfitana – Italian Dream Road Between the Sky and the Sea