Amalfi Coast - Idyllic Beauty and Italian Luxury

The three island of Capri, Ischia and Procida have been a magnet for visitors since Roman times

Deemed an outstanding example of a Mediterranean landscape by Unesco, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy's most memorable destinations. Mountains plunge into the sea in a nail-biting vertical scene of precipitous crags, cliff-clinging abodes and verdant woodland. South from chaotic and fascinating Naples, the vertiginous and craggy Amalfi Coast – and the 3 island outposts of Capri, Ischia and Procida, have been a magnet for visitors since Roman times. 

Many hotels, restaurants and attractions are firmly closed from November until Easter. High summer sees narrow coastal roads clogged, soaring temperatures and the occasional frayed temper, so it’s best to avoid July and August. Spring and autumn, though, are wonderful in this region – spring for its swathes of bright wildflowers and autumn for warm seas and bountiful seasonal produce including mushrooms, black truffles and chestnuts. Five days is all you need to take in the highlights of the region. Consider a night or two on the volcanic garden island of Ischia, and then spend the rest of your time at one of the coastal gems – Sorrento, Positano or Amalfi – with day trips to explore the splendours of Pompeii, Ravello`s  gardens and some mountain scenery.