This issue's feature starts with the port of Genoa, Italy, and runs down to the Amalfi Coast, highlighting stops along the way that may be of interest. In order to cover many locations, we have chosen to highlight what makes each area unique and then provide links to sites that probe deeper into each location you may enjoy experiencing.
These sites also have additional "hot links" to click on and immediately access information on specifics of that area. This also "puts you in charge" of the information so that you can pick and choose only the areas that most appeal to you, and then spend your time where you wish. It has often been said that seeing any country on a land trip is very different from cruising from port to port on one's own yacht. Most places are revealed from the water in greater depth and offer a different perspective than seeing them on land. Between many of these places are smaller fishing towns and larger cities that one can choose to visit as you pass by them on the water and decide to dock or anchor. For example, after picking up your yacht in Genoa and heading south, here are some delightful places to visit.
Portofino and the sparkling waters of Tigullo Bay is the picture of serenity, full of colorful boats and relaxing restaurants. Charming and much photographed from the hiking path on a hill across the bay.
- for photos and more info, click here -
Rapallo to Sestri-Levante is a small stretch of the coast that is rich in history and craftsmanship. In this area there are sculptures, frescoes, silks, velvets, lace, a Baroque cathedral, cable car, castle and an 18-hole golf course...
something for everyone.
-for photos and more info, click here –
Cinque Terre is a unique geographical area, rich in tiny peninsulas and bays. Besides ancient agricultural terraces, there is deep sea diving and the "five lands" of Monterosso, Vernazza, Conigula, Menarola and Riomaggiore that are connected by walking paths along the sea.
- for photos and more info, click here -
Viareggio is one of the most famous beach resorts in Tuscany and its Carnivale di Viareggio is one of the grandest in Italy. Its roots are in the 16th Century but today it is an active industrial and manufacturing center. Its shipbuilding industry includes such brands as Benetti, Azimut, Uniesse, Perini Navi and many others.
- for photos and more info, click here -
Capri, Ischia and Procida, also referred to as the pearls of the Gulf of Naples, are incredibly picturesque and inviting. From catering to the Roman Emperors and Patricians to centuries later being the favorites of film stars and business moguls, each offers natural beauty and relaxing pastimes that soothe the soul. There is so much to enjoy such as thermal springs, citrus trees and vineyards, not to mention being surrounded by the sea, circling each island before docking or anchoring is the best way to put each in context prior to exploring.
- for photos and more info, click here -
- for photos and more info on Capri, click here -
- for photos and more info on Ischia, click here -
- for photos and more info on Procida, click here -
Pompei, known as the forgotten city, was preserved for over two thousand years when Mount Vesuvius erupted and covered it completely on August 29th of 79 A.D. It wasn’t until 1594 that it was discovered by chance. The extent of the site wasn’t realized even when excavation began in 1748. When excavation was restarted in 1924 more of the town was found intact. Walking among these perfectly preserved artifacts and the stories they tell is priceless.
- for photos and more info, click here -
Sorrento is separated by a ravine into its old and new towns and sits high on a hilltop about 50 Kilometers south of Naples. It overlooks the Bay of Naples to the north and the Amalfi Coast to the north. Take a lift up to the public gardens at top of the cliff where you have views of the sea and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
- for photos and more info, click here -
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The Amalfi Coast is best known for the breath taking view of Positano, a town built into the hillside from the hilltop to the sea. But along the entire coast there are restful towns and villages offering the crafts and fresh food that all of Italy has come to represent.
-for photos and more info, click here -
Positano is the gem of the Amalfi Coast and the most photographed. It is a pleasure to wander up and down the steps and through the shops along the way. The beach level restaurants serve "oh so fresh" seafood at the shore. It’s definitely worthy of several visits.
- for photos and more info, click here -
Ravello is a hilltop town inland from Positano and well worth the short taxi ride. There is a large ravine, quaint buildings and delicious dining.
- for photos and more info, click here -
Amalfi is a town on the water’s edge and was named after the mythical nymph and lover of Hercules because it is so beautiful. It offers yet another perspective on the Mediterranean Sea, which a person cannot have too many.
- for photos and more info, click here -
Vietri-Sul-Mare is 50 kilometers south of Positano at the south end of the Amalfi Coast. Another quaint village built into the hillside with a magnificent sea view and a history of ceramic craftsmanship.
- for photos and more info, click here -
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