Itinerary
PARTHENOPEAN ISLANDS
Located in the central Tyrrhenian Sea on the western side of the Italian coast, they form a sort of crowning glory of the Gulf of Naples. The archipelago consists of the three main islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida. The favourite destination of Roman emperors in ancient times, it is still possible to admire their works and villas. Places of incomparable natural beauty also offer the possibility of a stay enlivened by high quality shopping, social and cultural events, in an atmosphere unique for its poetry.
Ischia
The largest of the Phlegraean islands, dominated by Mount Epomeo, famous for its hydrothermal resources and mild, temperate climate, is a destination for international tourism. A dominant feature of the island is the lush green, present not only on the tops of the tiny rocks and in the vineyards, but also in the stones, which make up the typical "green tuff". The main harbour also serves as the entrance to the island's settlement, which extends as far as the Aragonese Castle, whose construction dates back to the 5th century BC. Other ports are: Casamicciola, Forio d'Ischia and S. Angelo. The latter, built on the east side of a tongue of sand, which connects Punta S. Angelo to the mainland, is one of the most picturesque corners of the island whose naturalness has remained unaltered.
Procida
Certainly the least known of the Parthenopean islands, it originates from several extinct volcanoes. The coastline, with its sheer drop to the sea, is tuffaceous in nature, but moving inland, the island is undulating and rich in vegetable gardens. The marine and terrestrial environments are perfectly integrated and create a marvellous and incomparable combination. The island's main port is Marina di Procida, a fishing village with two large basins, the eastern one being used by yachtsmen. To the south of the island you can visit Corricella, a fishing port, where the famous film "Il Postino" by Massimo Troisi was filmed, and Chiaiolella, a very pretty fishing village with pink or yellow ochre houses, a safe landing place sheltered from almost all winds. In summer, the most important festival is the Sagra del del Mare, in honour of "Graziella", the protagonist of the novel of the same name by Alfonso La Martine.
Capri
Its name derives from the Greek Kapros (Island of the Boars) and is formed by two municipalities, Capri and Anacapri. Its coasts are very high and jagged, the highest point being Monte Solare (586 m a.s.l.), from which there is a stupendous view over the whole Gulf of Naples. Its temperate and very humid climate favours a luxuriant flora. The only port on the island, situated on the northern coast, is Marina Grande, but it is possible to anchor to the east or west of the latter, or in the case of winds from the north in the bight of Marina Piccola (on the side of the island).
From Marina Grande you can get to Capri either on foot or by funicular. During the Roman era, 12 villas were built on the island, the remains of which can still be visited. The inlets to visit are: the Cala di Matermania, the Cala Ventroso, the Grotta Bianca, the Grotta Verde and the very famous Grotta Azzurra. The Piazzetta of Capri is very famous. On the 14th May San Costanzo is celebrated with a procession through the streets of Capri.
AMALFI COAST
Nowhere do the colours shine so brightly and clearly as on the Amalfi Coast, which has always been an elegant destination for prestigious visitors. Set like incomparable gems in a precious diadem, the villages dotted along the coast captivate every tourist, even the most discerning. Here, everything becomes a symbol: the land rich in citrus fruits, the sea in the most incredible shades of blue and green, the suggestive little beaches, the small islands, the clusters of white, pink and yellow houses around tiny harbours.
Amalfi
In the blue serenity of the sky and the sea, Amalfi, if you look at it from the port, is enclosed as if in the hollow of a hand. Above, the scenery of the mountains, articulated and moved like a backdrop dotted with houses; below, a picturesque web of alleys, stairs, up to the breath of the large square where the majestic cathedral dedicated to St. Andrew dominates.
Positano
Positano is considered the pearl of the Amalfi coast, with its confusion of houses, domes, arches, its alleys and its thousands of steps, which, defying gravity, climb up the cliff.
Sorrento
Lying among fragrant parks and gardens full of orange and lemon groves, Sorrento, symbol of the coast, contains all its mystery and charm in the legend of Ulysses, bewitched by the Sirens.
