Amalfi Coast - Naples - Resorts Guide

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Overview: 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. Precariously perched and threatening to tipple into the sea is the small town of Positano. A cliffside stairway provides the perfect vantage point from which 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 it.