There are many ways in which we would describe Positano: charming, romantic, touristic – and we would be lying if we said this is the «ideal summer destination» as between June and September, the Amalfi Coast (and Positano in particular) is extremely busy. However we would also be lying if we said this wasn’t worth a visit because it is, and will always be, one of the most characteristic destinations of Italy. Terracotta and warm-hue colored houses perched over the Tyrrhenian sea, beaches sprawling across the coast and sunsets that paint the scenery as if it were out of a romance novel.
What to do
take a boat trip along the coast
A boat trip along the coast, with a view of Atrani, Minori, Maiori, as far as Amalfi, where anyone who wants to can also stop and then return to land by bus. The route of the boat includes a stop at the Gola di Furore, an ancient fishing village (UNESCO world heritage site), at the Tritone and Africana caves and the Natural Arch. WEBSITE
hike Il sentiero degli Dei
An 8 km path that starts from Agerola, a small village in the Lattari Mountains, until reaching Nocelle, a hamlet of Positano. This walk offers spectacular views over the Gulf of Salerno, the Capri Faraglioni, Punta Campanella and the entire Sorrento Peninsula. Ps. nearby there’s a wonderful restaurant called La Tagliata for a quick #lunchwithaview. Think steak and red wine.
lounge at a Beach club
Pupetto
In Fornillo, this is one of the locals preferred spots. A well equipped beach, the bar and the ‘Lido’, or in other words, ‘restaurant’. A few steps away from the sea, in a garden of lemon trees, Pupetto also offers simple but pleasant rooms, all with balconies that overlook the tyrrhenian. WEBSITE
Arienzo
Arienzo beach club is one of the most iconic beach clubs on the coast. Loved by the locals, this place is a refuge from the busy centre of Positano. Orange and white coordinated sun beds and umbrellas, classic, and a shack that serves food all day, as well as a beach bar. How to get there? There is a small shuttle boat that leaves from the central pier of Positano and takes five minutes to reach the beach club. You’ll want to book in advance and this can be done online: there is a different offer depending on if you’re a solo traveller, travelling as a couple, with friends or with family. WEBSITE
wine tasting at MariSa Cuomo Winery
The Marisa Cuomo Winery has been a family run cellar since 1980, belonging to Andrea Ferraioli and Marisa Cuomo. The vineyards are located here in Furore and the grapes, exposed to the constant heat, sun and salt, are the result of a magical combination of elements. You can book a guided tour in which you visit the cellar, vineyards and sample the unique flavour of its extreme wines and taste the gastronomic specialities of Furore. WEBSITE
WHERE TO EAT
Li Galli
Li Galli of the Villa Franca hotel is a Michelin starred restaurant with a menu signed by Chef Savio Perna. His cooking is delicious, with high attention to detail from the selection of the oils, to the varieties of bread and puffed focaccia and to finish, a sumptuous dessert trolley. WEBSITE
Rada
Located within a breathtaking setting, Rada is a magical and elegant place. Here a young chef serves tasty, seafood based cuisine. You’ll find technique and beautifully presented dishes. Try his ‘Fish Menu’, awarded as the best on the coast. WEBSITE
LA CAMBUSA
Situated literally on the beach, La Cambusa is a great seafood restaurant with a view of the bay that dates back to the 60s. It’s ideal for a plate of spaghetti alle vongole and glass of white wine on the outdoor patio, overlooking the Tyrrhenian sea. WEBSITE
Drink
Franco’s Bar
Imagine taking a front-row seat at your favourite concert or show. Emotions are running high and your heart is racing – this is how you feel when you take a seat for the first time at Franco’s Bar. Only enhanced by the fresh citrus infused cocktails savoured with a view of Positano at golden hour.
WHERE TO SLEEp
il San Pietro di positano
This luxury hotel is an icon of hospitality. Among its past guests you’ll find Gregory Peck, Barbra Streisand, Rudolf Nureyev, Franco Zeffirelli, Tina Turner, Dustin Hoffman, Julia Roberts, Mel Gibson and George Cloney. Today, it’s a symbol of elegance whilst maintaining its modesty. Spacious, naturally lit up rooms, panoramic rooftop and a Michelin starred restaurant that overlooks the sea. WEBSITE
villa tre ville
Villa Tre Ville was the summer residence of Franco Zeffirelli and today, it is a small hotel with 14 suites where you can experience the thrill of living in an artist’s villa, appreciate the Moroccan inspired furnishings, and the splendour of the greenhouse. Ps. this is one of the few places to have an outdoor bathtub among the banana palm trees #feelslikeindonesia. WEBSITE
Villa Magia Positano
Nestled in Positano, tucked away by busy part of the village, you’ll find Villa Magia. A simple, mediterranean style aesthetic who lets the beauty of its location do the talking. White rooms, large swimming pool and one of the most beautiful pergolas we have ever encountered for a drink or two with an extraordinary view. WEBSITE