The Most Alluring Destinations on the Amalfi Coast

A pilgrimage site for discerning travellers with a penchant for provincial charm, the Amalfi coast is celebrated by many as the jewel of the Mediterranean. It offers a bewitching blend of dramatic landscapes and delicate natural beauty, and is characterised by sleepy, picturesque towns and villages that time seems to have forgotten. But where are the five destinations on the Amalfi Coast in which you should be renting a luxury Italian villa this summer? We’ve handpicked five of our favourite destinations in the region, each of which is guaranteed to immerse guests in luxuriousness, charm and Italian authenticity.

>> See our luxury villas on the Amalfi Coast

Positano

Positano is one of the most picturesque places on the entire continent, let alone the Amalfi Coast, thanks to the dozens of pastel-coloured houses that cascade down its hillsides towards its golden beach. But there is much more to Positano than just its aesthetic splendour: the steep streets are lined with restaurants serving traditional Italian dishes. La Sponda – regarded by many as the best restaurant on the coast – was recently awarded a Michelin Star. There are more than enough glamorous boutiques to keep shoppers happy, including Safari, 3 Denari and Maria Lampo, each of which has received international coverage.

See: Admire Positano from Praiano

Do: Take a boat tour to witness the majesty of the town as it sprawls over the dramatic coastline

Sorrento

Just half an hour’s drive from Positano is Sorrento. Perched high above the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius forming a dramatic backdrop, Sorrento boasts several picturesque piazzas to explore and some attractive cathedrals such as Chiostro di San Francesco. There are plenty of souvenir shops offering up ceramics, lacework and the town’s renowned export, intarsio, which is a form of intricate wood inlaying. Villa Astina offers accommodation that is unique in its luxuriousness: marble covered walls house historic works of art; the breathtaking gardens are regarded as some of the finest in Italy; and the spectacular views show off Sorrento in the kind of light it deserves.

See: Bagni della Regina Giovanna

Do: Explore the Valley of the Mills

>> See Villa Astina, Sorrento

Ravello

Unlike its sleepy neighbours, Ravello is unashamedly exclusive and proudly caters for luxurious tastes. Those to have enjoyed a trip to its landscaped gardens and witnessed its outstanding views include Wagner, DH Lawrence and Virginia Wolf. As well as chic restaurants, boutiques and indulgent spas, there is a delightful street market held on Tuesday mornings for an authentic Italian experience.

See: Villa Cimbrone Gardens

Do: Hike the Atrani Walk to admire Ravello in all its glory

Vietri Sul Mere

The last stop on the Amalfi coastal road, and perhaps the most authentic Amalfi village for that reason, is Vietri Sul Mare. Famous throughout the Mediterranean for its brightly painted ceramics and fresh seafood, Vietri Sul Mere is not the glitziest town on this list but its crumbling stucco villas and unruly cobbled streets are all part of its undeniable charm.

See: Spiaggia della Crestarella

Do: Take a tour of Le Vigne di Raito and taste the region’s fine wine

Amalfi

Laying on the east of the Amalfi Coast and just a 20-minute drive from the inimitable Villa Freda is the town of Amalfi itself. The most historical of all the villages in the region, the 9th century settlement is nestled within a giant rocky ravine on the edge of the bay of Naples. Guides are available to help you explore its hidden streets but should you crave something a bit more energetic then there are also several water sports establishments offering jet skiing and water-skiing. 

See: View the spectacular waterfalls at Valle delle Ferriere

Do: Experience true serenity in Amalfi’s Cathedral

>> See our collection of luxury villas on the Amalfi Coast