Holidays to Positano give you the perfect introduction to
Italy’s glorious
Amalfi Coast. Be prepared to be seduced by this lovely town, with its vertiginous houses of pastel pink, peach and warm terracotta spilling in disorderly fashion from the slopes of the Monti Lattari to the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
In romantic Positano, hand holding couples negotiate narrow rock cut streets which meander past local shops and little cafés. Duck into an a gallery or boutique selling the best of Positano’s luxury goods, before stopping to take in the view from one of the little bars selling spritzers and epicurean nibbles. Alternatively, simply relax on the beach and take a moment to listen carefully for the legendary call of the Sirens of Li Galli.
If you’re feeling energetic and in search of the best views, head to the Path of the Gods, which is a marked trail that runs from Bomerano to Nocelle. Positano is not just about today, look closely and there are reminders of Roman soldiers, of Benedictine monks and of a time when Ottoman pirates cast a covetous eye over the Amalfi coastline.
Explore Positano like no other
History lovers will find plenty to explore on holidays in Positano. As if more colour could possibly be added to an already kaleidoscopic scene, the majolica tiled dome of the Santa Maria Assunta adds gold, green and blue. The church, popular with locals getting married, is best known for a Byzantine Black Madonna and child painting over the main altar. It’s a lovely place full of history and perfect for quiet reflection.
One of Positano’s great surprises are the underground remains of a Roman Villa complete with astonishingly well preserved paintings of winged cherubs, sea serpents and leopards. The entrance to the Museo Archeologico Romano lies close to the church.
History aside, the main attractions of Positano are shopping and just relaxing on one of a number of beaches, some private and some public. With lots of bars and restaurants and even a night club, the Marina Grande Beach is the focus of much of the town’s social life. Shopping in this town is a true experience, with local designers prominently displayed. You’ll find ladies’ fashion, linen, leather products, particularly sandals, and ceramics, often with the ubiquitous lemon motif.