Exploring Ancient Herculaneum: A Journey Through Time

A Sweet Farewell to Italy

As our Italian adventure draws to a close, Lena and I find ourselves in the charming coastal town of Sorrento. It’s hard to believe our ten days in Italy are already coming to an end. From the ancient ruins of Herculaneum to the breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast, this trip has been a whirlwind of history, culture, and culinary delights. Today, we're soaking in the last moments, savoring the beauty of Sorrento, and reflecting on the memories we've made.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffetteria Carmiusina in Ercolano. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the taste of warm, flaky pastries were the perfect way to start our final day. It's funny; I've become quite the fan of Italian breakfasts, a far cry from my usual rushed mornings in Berlin. Lena, of course, was in her element, sketching in her notebook as she enjoyed her cappuccino. It's these simple moments of shared joy that make our travels so special. We chatted about our favorite moments from the trip, Lena reminiscing about the mosaics in Herculaneum, and I, about the sheer engineering marvel of it all.


Experience the warmth of Italian hospitality at Caffetteria Carmiusina, where exquisite coffee and delightful pastries await you in Ercolano.
After breakfast, we took the train to Sorrento, a short but scenic journey that offered glimpses of the stunning coastline. The train was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to experience the magic of Sorrento. As we stepped off the train, the vibrant atmosphere of the town immediately enveloped us. The air was filled with the scent of lemons and the sound of lively chatter. I must admit, after spending so much time exploring ruins, it was refreshing to be in a place so full of life.

Our first stop was the Villa Comunale di Sorrento, a beautiful park offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples. The park itself is meticulously maintained, with colorful flowerbeds and shady trees providing a tranquil escape from the bustling town. As we strolled through the park, we paused to admire the panoramic vista. The azure waters of the gulf stretched out before us, dotted with boats and framed by the majestic silhouette of Mount Vesuvius in the distance. I took several photos, trying to capture the beauty of the scene, but no picture could truly do it justice. It was the kind of view that makes you feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural splendor.


Experience tranquility in the heart of Sorrento at Villa Comunale, where stunning views and lush gardens await every visitor.

Traveling isn't just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new perspectives and creating lasting memories.

Lena and I found a bench overlooking the sea and simply sat in comfortable silence, each lost in our thoughts. I reflected on how much I've come to appreciate these moments of quiet connection with Lena. Life in Berlin can be hectic, and it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind. But these trips allow us to reconnect, to rediscover the joy of simply being together. I made a mental note to prioritize these moments when we return home.

Next, we ventured to the Vallone dei Mulini, or Valley of the Mills, a hidden gem tucked away behind Piazza Tasso. This ancient valley, formed by an eruption thousands of years ago, is a testament to the power of nature and the passage of time. As we peered down into the valley, we were struck by the sight of the old mill ruins, now overgrown with lush vegetation. It was a surreal and enchanting scene, a reminder of the rich history that lies beneath the surface of this vibrant town. The valley is a unique ecosystem, teeming with rare plants and ferns that thrive in the humid microclimate. It felt like stepping into another world, a secret garden hidden in plain sight.


Explore the stunning Vallone dei Mulini in Sorrento, where breathtaking scenery meets rich history in a picturesque Mediterranean setting.
The history of Vallone dei Mulini is fascinating. The flour mills, built as far back as the 13th century, once served as a vital part of Sorrento's economy. The mills operated for centuries, grinding grain for the local population. However, in 1866, the construction of Piazza Tasso led to the isolation of the valley, and the mills were eventually abandoned in the 1940s. Today, the ruins stand as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of a bygone era. It's amazing how nature reclaims what was once man-made, creating something new and beautiful out of the old.

For lunch, we decided to try Taratatà, a restaurant known for its authentic Neapolitan cuisine. We shared a pizza margherita, a simple yet delicious dish that perfectly captured the flavors of the region. The crust was thin and crispy, the tomato sauce sweet and tangy, and the mozzarella fresh and creamy. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures. Lena, ever the artist, was particularly impressed with the presentation of the dishes. She commented on the vibrant colors and the attention to detail, noting how the culinary arts in Italy are truly an art form in themselves. As a software developer, I tend to focus on the functional aspects of things, but Lena's perspective always reminds me to appreciate the beauty in the everyday.


Experience authentic Italian pizza at Taratatà in Ercolano—where tradition meets flavor in every slice.
In the late afternoon, we sought out the Roof Garden Lounge Bar for a relaxing drink with a view. Perched high above the town, the bar offered stunning panoramic vistas of Sorrento and the surrounding coastline. Sipping on Aperol spritzes, we watched as the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to our final day in Italy. We raised our glasses in a toast to our adventure, to the memories we had made, and to the promise of future travels together.


Experience the enchanting ambiance of Roof Garden Lounge Bar in Ercolano, where exquisite coffee meets captivating live music in a stunning rooftop setting.
As the evening drew near, we made our way back to Ercolano for our farewell dinner at La Roccia Al Vesuvio. The restaurant, nestled near Vesuvius, offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with local specialties. We shared a plate of spaghetti alle vongole, a classic Neapolitan dish that never fails to delight. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the clams were fresh and flavorful, and the sauce was rich and savory. It was the perfect culinary send-off, a reminder of the delicious food we had enjoyed throughout our trip. The restaurant had a certain charm that reminded me of some of the cozy pubs back in Czechia, a comforting feeling as our trip neared its end.


Experience authentic Italian flavors with breathtaking views at La Roccia Al Vesuvio, where every meal is a celebration of culinary art.
Reflecting on our ten days in Italy, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been an opportunity to learn, to grow, and to connect with each other on a deeper level. We've explored ancient ruins, hiked scenic trails, and savored delicious food. We've met friendly locals, learned about different cultures, and created memories that will last a lifetime. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to share these experiences with Lena. Her artistic eye and adventurous spirit have enriched every moment of our journey. As we prepare to return to Berlin, I know that we'll carry the spirit of Italy with us, a reminder to slow down, to appreciate the beauty around us, and to cherish the simple joys of life.

Tomorrow, we head back to Berlin. While I'm looking forward to returning to our comfortable routine, I know I'll miss the warmth of the Italian sun, the taste of the local cuisine, and the sense of adventure that has filled our days. Until next time, Italy, arrivederci!

As I sit here writing this, Lena is already fast asleep, dreaming of ancient mosaics and sun-kissed coastlines. I smile, knowing that our Italian adventure will continue to inspire us long after we've returned home. It's moments like these that make life truly meaningful, and I'm grateful for every second of it. Goodnight from Italy.