Exploring the Enchanting Amalfi Coast with Friends
Day 11: A Farewell Toast to the Amalfi Coast: Embracing the Siren's Call One Last Time
Bidding adieu to the Amalfi Coast with a final day of enchanting grottos, scenic cruises, and culinary delights. A perfect end to an amazing trip!
Saying Goodbye to Paradise
As our Amalfi Coast adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared over the past eleven days. This final day was a perfect encapsulation of everything that makes this region so magical: stunning natural beauty, delicious food, and the warmth of the Italian spirit. It’s hard to believe it’s already over, but I’m determined to soak in every last moment.
We started our last day in Amalfi with a delightful breakfast at B&B Al Pesce d'Oro. The aroma of freshly baked lemon cake, a local specialty, filled the air, instantly lifting our spirits. The B&B definitely lived up to it's reputation, with stunning view of the Amalfi Coast from the terrace each morning. I savored every bite while gazing out at the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, feeling grateful for this incredible experience. Olivia would have loved this place, she really appreciates a good breakfast and a relaxing environment. I made a mental note to bring her here one day. The hotel is family-run, and features a restaurant with pizzeria serving traditional meals prepared from fresh seasonal produce.
Experience authentic Amalfi hospitality at B&B Al Pesce d'Oro - where exquisite seafood meets comfortable accommodations.
After breakfast, we set out to explore the legendary Grotta delle Sirene, or Sirens' Grotto. The name itself conjures images of mythical creatures and enchanting melodies, and I was eager to discover the secrets hidden within this sea cave.
The Grotta delle Sirene is a remarkable natural wonder located along the picturesque Amalfi Coast, known for its breathtaking scenery and mythological significance. This enchanting sea cave is steeped in legend, as it is said to be the dwelling place of the Sirens from ancient mythology, who lured sailors with their enchanting songs. The cave itself is characterized by stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters that reflect the vibrant hues of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot for photography and exploration. Thankfully we were able to access the entrance by boat. The steep cliffs and lush vegetation provided a stunning backdrop as we approached the grotto. Inside, the water was crystal clear, and the rock formations were truly awe-inspiring. It was easy to imagine the sirens of legend dwelling in this magical place.
Experience the beauty and serenity of Grotta delle Sirene, a hidden gem along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
The journey, not the destination, matters.
Next on our agenda was a cruise with Amalfi Cruises. I was excited to see the coastline from a different perspective, and the weather was perfect for a day on the water. As we set sail, the views of the colorful towns clinging to the cliffs were simply breathtaking. The boat meandered along the coast, giving us ample opportunities to snap photos and soak in the scenery. The sun was warm, the sea was calm, and the company was fantastic. It was a truly unforgettable experience, one that I’ll cherish for years to come.
Explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast with Amalfi Cruises, offering unforgettable boat tours and rentals for an extraordinary adventure on the water.
For lunch, we decided to try Trattoria dei Cartari, a local gem known for its authentic Italian cuisine. This place was slightly away from the main tourist area, and next to a school. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the aroma of homemade pasta filled the air. I opted for the spaghetti alle vongole, a classic Neapolitan dish, while my friends chose the seafood risotto and the catch of the day. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and the ingredients were incredibly fresh. We savored every bite, accompanied by a bottle of crisp local wine. It was the perfect midday meal, a true taste of Italy. One of my friends got the scialatelli with eggplant, tomatoes etc. He said it was hands down the best scialatelli he had on the Amalfi coast/Sorrento area. The pasta had absorbed the sauce perfectly and he was using the bread to make sure none of that sauce remained!
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria dei Cartari in Amalfi – where fresh seafood meets traditional cuisine.
As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a bit of relaxation at Blu Sirena, a charming bar overlooking the sea. The bar offers a great view, and the staff is accommodating. We ordered a round of Aperol spritzes, the perfect drink for a sunny afternoon in Italy, and settled in to enjoy the view. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we spent a pleasant hour chatting and laughing, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. The homey decor let us feel relaxed. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
Experience the charm of Amalfi at Blu Sirena, where delightful cuisine meets stunning coastal views in a vibrant atmosphere.
For our final dinner on the Amalfi Coast, we chose Ristorante La Caravella, a renowned establishment known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant ambiance. The restaurant's interior was decorated to suggest the interior of an ancient sailing ship. From the moment we walked in, we were transported to another world. The service was impeccable, and the menu was filled with tempting options. I decided to splurge on the tasting menu, a culinary journey through the flavors of the region. Each course was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the pasta was cooked to perfection. It was a truly memorable meal, a fitting end to our Amalfi Coast adventure. I had lobster and grapefruit, potato ravioli with taleggio cheese, and sliced beef entrecote. It was all delicious.
Discover exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at Ristorante La Caravella in Amalfi, where seafood meets elegance amidst stunning coastal views.
As I sit here tonight, penning these final thoughts, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. This trip to the Amalfi Coast with my friends has been an incredible experience, one that I’ll treasure for the rest of my life. From the stunning scenery to the delicious food to the warmth of the Italian people, every moment has been special. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have shared this adventure with my friends, and I know that we’ll be talking about it for years to come.
Tomorrow, we head back to Naples to catch our flight home. It’s always bittersweet to leave a place you’ve fallen in love with, but I know that I’ll carry the memories of the Amalfi Coast with me wherever I go. And who knows, maybe one day I’ll return to this magical place, to once again embrace the siren’s call. Until then, arrivederci, Amalfi Coast. You’ve stolen a piece of my heart.
I feel so refreshed. As much as I love my job back in Kelowna, getting out here and experiencing life and other cultures is important, and I'm glad I did it. I know Olivia and Thando are waiting for me back home, and I can't wait to see them. Maybe next time they can join me on one of these trips. Thando would love to see the Grotta delle Sirene!
There were no local events today that I attended, but there was an Amalfi Coast Cooking Class where they made Pasta, Mozzarella and Tiramisu. I wish I knew about that earlier, I would've loved to attend!
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast with friends, enjoying coastal views, charming towns, and vibrant culture in a relaxing getaway.
Meet this Featured Explorer
-
Occupation: Software Developer
-
Country: Canada
-
Age: 38
Hello, fellow travelers! I'm James Dlamini, a software developer by day and a passionate travel blogger by night. Originally from Kimberley, South Africa, I now call Kelowna, Canada, home. Together with my amazing wife, Olivia, and our energetic son, Thando, we embark on journeys that blend cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, and relaxation. I share our experiences to inspire families, young professionals, and anyone seeking unique and authentic travel opportunities. Join us as we explore the world, one adventure at a time!
- Technology
- Wildlife Conservation
- African History
- Global Cuisine
- Photography
Find Similar Travel Diaries
Explore locations from this diary
-
Hotel Villa Annalara charme and relax
Experience the beauty of Amalfi at Hotel Villa Annalara, where charm meets relaxation, just steps from stunning beaches and vibrant culture.
-
Grotta delle Sirene
Experience the beauty and serenity of Grotta delle Sirene, a hidden gem along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
-
Amalfi Cruises
Explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast with Amalfi Cruises, offering unforgettable boat tours and rentals for an extraordinary adventure on the water.
-
B&B Al Pesce d'Oro
Experience authentic Amalfi hospitality at B&B Al Pesce d'Oro - where exquisite seafood meets comfortable accommodations.
-
Trattoria dei Cartari
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria dei Cartari in Amalfi – where fresh seafood meets traditional cuisine.
-
Ristorante La Caravella
Discover exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at Ristorante La Caravella in Amalfi, where seafood meets elegance amidst stunning coastal views.
-
Blu Sirena
Experience the charm of Amalfi at Blu Sirena, where delightful cuisine meets stunning coastal views in a vibrant atmosphere.