Exploring the Enchanting Amalfi Coast with Friends

A Day Away From the Tourist Trail

The Amalfi Coast is known for its glamorous towns and stunning vistas, but today, I decided to venture a little off the beaten path. With my friends in tow, I was eager to discover some of the hidden gems that this region has to offer, trading the bustling beaches for the quiet allure of the mountains. Today promised a blend of nature, local culture, and of course, fantastic Italian food.

Our adventure began with a hearty breakfast at Trattoria dei Cartari. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Positano, this place is a local favorite, and it’s easy to see why. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the aroma of freshly baked bread and brewing coffee filled the air. I opted for a simple yet satisfying breakfast of scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a cappuccino, while my friends chose a selection of pastries. Fueled up and ready, we set off for our first destination: Montepertuso il buco.


Explore Montepertuso Il Buco's breathtaking views and unique geological features in the heart of Positano, an unforgettable destination for every traveler.
The bus ride to Montepertuso was an experience in itself. The narrow, winding roads offered stunning views of the coastline, and I couldn’t resist snapping a few photos along the way. As we climbed higher, the landscape transformed from colorful houses clinging to the cliffs to lush green hillsides dotted with olive groves and vineyards. I was reminded of the hiking trails back home in Kelowna, though the vegetation here was decidedly more Mediterranean. I made a mental note to bring Olivia and Thando back here one day; they would absolutely love it.

Arriving in Montepertuso, we were immediately struck by the peaceful atmosphere of the village. It felt a world away from the hustle and bustle of Positano, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of calm wash over me. After a brief stop to admire the charming village square, we began our hike towards il buco – the hole in the mountain.

The trail was steep and challenging, but the views along the way were more than worth the effort. As we climbed higher, we were treated to panoramic vistas of the coastline, with the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea stretching out before us. The air was fresh and clean, and the scent of wildflowers filled our nostrils. I found myself reflecting on my childhood in Kimberley, South Africa, and the countless hours I spent exploring the rugged landscapes of my homeland. Hiking has always been a way for me to connect with nature and find a sense of peace and tranquility.

Reaching il buco, we were awestruck by the sheer size and scale of the natural rock formation. Legend has it that the hole was created by the Virgin Mary during a battle with the devil, and it’s easy to see why this place holds such a special significance for the locals. We spent some time exploring the area, taking photos, and simply soaking in the incredible views. I even mustered the courage to walk across a narrow plank that spanned a gash in the cliff face, rewarded with even more breathtaking vistas.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

After our hike, we made our way back to Montepertuso for a well-deserved lunch at Dei Cappuccini. This restaurant came highly recommended, and I was eager to try some authentic local cuisine. We were not disappointed. The restaurant was perched on a hillside, offering stunning views of the coastline, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. I ordered the seafood pasta, while my friends opted for the pizza. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and attentive. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our next destination: Belvedere Di Paipo.


Experience the stunning Amalfi Coast from the iconic Belvedere Di Paipo, a must-visit observation deck in Agerola, Italy.
This scenic overlook is located a short bus ride from Montepertuso, and it’s known for its panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. Arriving at Belvedere Di Paipo, we were greeted by a sight that took our breath away. The views were simply stunning, with the coastline stretching out before us in all its glory. We spent some time taking photos and simply soaking in the incredible scenery. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring.

Before heading back to our hotel, we made a quick stop at Cose Belle.


Discover Cose Belle, Amalfi's charming pottery store, showcasing exquisite handcrafted ceramics reflecting the beauty of the Mediterranean.
A local shop in Positano. I had heard great things about their selection of handmade goods, and I was eager to pick up a few souvenirs for Olivia and Thando. The shop was filled with beautiful ceramics, textiles, and jewelry, and I had a hard time choosing just a few items. In the end, I settled on a hand-painted ceramic bowl for Olivia and a colorful scarf for Thando. I knew they would love them.

For dinner, we decided to try Trattoria San Giuseppe.


Discover Trattoria San Giuseppe in Amalfi – where fresh seafood meets authentic Italian cuisine amid breathtaking coastal views.
A charming restaurant known for its authentic Italian cuisine. Located in a quiet alleyway, it offered a cozy and intimate atmosphere. We started with a selection of appetizers, including bruschetta, olives, and local cheeses. For my main course, I ordered the seafood risotto, which was cooked to perfection. My friends chose the pasta carbonara and the osso buco, both of which were equally delicious. The meal was a fitting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

As I reflect on today’s adventure, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of the Amalfi Coast. From the challenging hike to Montepertuso il buco to the breathtaking views from Belvedere Di Paipo, every moment was filled with wonder and delight. I am also grateful for the chance to share these experiences with my friends, whose laughter and camaraderie made the day even more special.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Amalfi itself, visiting the Statue Dedicated to Flavio Gioia and Parco del Dragone. I’m also looking forward to trying out Bar Francese for a relaxing evening drink. But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure on this enchanting coastline.

And as I sit here, penning down the events of the day, I realize that the true beauty of travel lies not just in the places we visit, but in the memories we create and the connections we forge along the way.

The Amalfi Coast has a way of captivating the soul, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

My adapter plug is still missing, but honestly, who needs technology when you're surrounded by this much beauty?

Ciao for now!