The Amalfi Coast--All I can say is
Trip Start
Jul 21, 2005
1
5
15
Trip End
Aug 05, 2005
Maiori,
Italy
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Up and out to get the car from the parking garage and start our southerly trip to the Amalfi Coast. After getting on the wrong road way above the coast road, we over shot the area and had to turn back from Salerno. Found the A3 and then the proper coast road heading west.
It is one of the most breathtaking coastlines in Europe, the Amalfi Coast stretches 50kms east from Sorrento to Salerno. A narrow asphalt ribbon, itself a feat of road-building as spectacular as the views, winds along cliffs that drop to crystal-clear blue waters and passes through a series of beautiful towns. The coastal road is magnificent, a white knuckle ride at first until we learned to navigate using the mirrors provided at every hair-pin turn. It is two lanes, not divided, and surprisingly everyone drives it at times up to 70km, passing street side restaurants, vespas weaving in and out of traffic, cars passing into oncoming lane and pedestrians who walk side by side in the streets.
After winding our way through and past the towns of Vietri sul Mare, and Cetara we settled ourselves in a hotel at the eastern end of town with direct beach access. At the time we had no idea which town we were in, but quickly discovered we were in Maiori. The hotel Sole Splendid is a beautiful structure five storeys high with each room having a private terrace. We chose a room overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and beach.
After a quick lunch in the restaurant across the road overlooking the beach, we spent the afternoon in the surf and sun, taking a much needed break. In the evening, we wandered the streets of the town as it winds its way up the cliff, exploring the little alleys that lead off the main streets, window shopping along the way. After inquiring in one shop, we were directed to a lovely secluded restaurant with a small courtyard full of tables. Had another incredible meal and local wine, this time we gave the local pizzas a try. Way too big to finish, but absolutely delicious--certainly not Pizza Pizza!
