Exploring the Enchanting Amalfi Coast with Friends

A Day of Coastal Magic

Today was one of those days that etches itself into your memory, a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and culinary indulgence. The Amalfi Coast continues to surprise and delight, offering a sensory feast at every turn. It's hard to believe this is only day three of our adventure with friends – it feels like we've already experienced a lifetime of wonders.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Terrazza Duomo. The location couldn't have been more perfect, right in the heart of Amalfi, overlooking the main piazza.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of pastries. I opted for the scrambled eggs, as recommended by a recent review I had read, while the others chose a selection of local cheeses and cured meats. The view of the Duomo was simply breathtaking, a majestic backdrop to our morning meal. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the adventures that lay ahead.
Yingjie, who stayed at Terrazza Duomo just a few days ago, mentioned the comfy rooms and good breakfast, which I can attest to!
I made sure to charge my camera fully, remembering yesterday's near miss with the portable charger I forgot to pack!


Experience breathtaking views and authentic Italian cuisine at Terrazza Duomo in Amalfi - where every meal becomes a cherished memory.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Grotta dello Smeraldo, or Emerald Grotto. The name alone conjured up images of hidden treasures and mystical underwater realms, and I was eager to see if the reality lived up to the hype. The grotto is located in Conca dei Marini and we took a short drive along the winding coastal road. The views along the way were, of course, spectacular, with glimpses of the turquoise sea and charming villages clinging to the cliffs.
The entrance to the grotto is unassuming, a small opening in the rock face. We descended via elevator, anticipation building with each passing moment. Stepping into the grotto was like entering another world. The emerald light, filtered through an underwater opening, illuminated the cavern with an ethereal glow.
A local guide rowed us around in a small boat, sharing stories and pointing out the stalactites and stalagmites that adorned the cave. Some say the guides don't speak English well, but our guide's English was great. The water was crystal clear, and we could see the submerged ceramic figures of a Neapolitan presepio (Nativity scene), a unique and somewhat surreal sight. The whole experience was relatively short, but the beauty of the emerald light made it worthwhile. Despite some reviews mentioning it as a ripoff, I found it to be a captivating experience, especially with the optimal sunlight around 13:00.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Grotta dello Smeraldo, a magnificent sea cave with emerald waters and stunning formations on the Amalfi Coast.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

Leaving the Grotta dello Smeraldo, we drove to Ravello, a mountaintop town known for its stunning gardens and panoramic views. Our destination was Villa Cimbrone, a historic estate with origins dating back to the 11th century. As we approached the villa, the air grew noticeably cooler, a welcome respite from the warm coastal sun. The entrance to the gardens is through a medieval gate, and as we stepped inside, we were immediately transported to a world of tranquility and beauty.
The gardens of Villa Cimbrone are a masterpiece of landscape design, a blend of English and Italian styles. We wandered along winding paths, past manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and ancient sculptures. The views from every corner were simply breathtaking, with vistas of the coastline stretching out as far as the eye could see. It's easy to see why Gore Vidal called Villa Cimbrone the most beautiful place he had ever seen.
One of the highlights of Villa Cimbrone is the Terrace of Infinity, a panoramic balcony adorned with marble busts. Standing on the terrace, gazing out at the endless expanse of sea and sky, I felt a sense of awe and wonder. The views were truly infinite, a reminder of the boundless beauty of our planet. Lena and I took some great photos, even though I forgot my sunglasses, darn it!


Discover the stunning Villa Cimbrone Gardens in Ravello, where lush landscapes meet breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast.

We explored the various other features of the gardens, including the Cloister, Crypt, and Temple of Bacchus. Each corner revealed a new surprise, a hidden fountain, a secluded bench, a breathtaking view. It was easy to imagine the famous guests who had visited Villa Cimbrone over the years, including Virginia Woolf and Winston Churchill, finding inspiration in this idyllic setting. The history of the villa is fascinating, from its origins as a noble estate to its transformation by Lord Grimthorpe in the early 20th century. The blend of English landscaping and Italian garden traditions creates a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. I even learned that the crypt was modeled after the Fountain Abbey of Malton in Yorkshire where Lord Grimthorpe was born!

After our exploration of Villa Cimbrone, we were ready for lunch. We headed back down to Amalfi and found a table at Marina Grande, a restaurant overlooking the harbor. The restaurant has a long history, starting as a seaside bar in 1918 and moving to its current location in 1922. I had read that Marina Grande offers a culinary experience rooted in the simplicity and tradition of selecting local ingredients.
I opted for the seafood risotto, while the others chose a variety of pasta dishes. The food was delicious, fresh, and flavorful, a true taste of the Amalfi Coast. The views of the harbor were stunning, with boats bobbing gently in the water and the colorful buildings of Amalfi rising up the hillside. It was the perfect setting for a relaxed and enjoyable lunch. The staff were very professional and the service was terrific, adding to the overall experience. I washed the meal down with some iced coffee.


Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine with stunning coastal views at Marina Grande in Amalfi.

In the late afternoon, we decided to explore Amalfi town a bit more. We strolled through the narrow streets, browsing the shops and soaking up the atmosphere. Amalfi is a charming town, with a rich history and a vibrant culture. The Duomo, with its striking façade, is a must-see, as is the Piazza del Duomo, the heart of the town. We stopped for gelato, savoring the sweet treat as we watched the world go by.
As evening approached, we sought out Masaniello Art Café for a pre-dinner drink. This bar is known for its strategic position in a busy area, making it a great spot for people-watching. The cocktails menu, printed on old parchment, added to the charm. I decided on an Aperol Spritz, a classic Italian aperitivo, while the others tried some of the bar's unique creations. The staff was super friendly, and we enjoyed the cool music and lively atmosphere. Prices were democratic, as they say!


Experience the vibrant blend of art, cocktails, and gourmet burgers at Masaniello Art Café in the heart of Amalfi.

For dinner, we had reservations at Taverna degli Apostoli, a family-run restaurant located near the Duomo. I had read rave reviews about their seafood cuisine and traditional Campanian dishes. The restaurant is tucked away from the main square, creating a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
We started with a selection of appetizers, including fried zucchini flowers and marinated anchovies. For my main course, I chose the spaghetti with lemon pesto, a regional specialty. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the lemon pesto was bursting with flavor. The others opted for a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled octopus and seafood risotto. Everyone raved about their meals, praising the fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. I enjoyed a glass of local wine with my meal, savoring the taste of the Amalfi Coast.
The service was excellent, and the staff was attentive and friendly. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with artwork adorning the walls. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. I made sure to bring cash, since I read they don't accept cards!


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Taverna degli Apostoli in Amalfi – where every meal tells a story of tradition and flavor.

As I sit here writing this, reflecting on the day's adventures, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. The Amalfi Coast has exceeded all my expectations, offering a sensory feast at every turn. From the emerald depths of the Grotta dello Smeraldo to the infinite views of Villa Cimbrone, today was a day of wonders. And the culinary delights, from the breakfast at Terrazza Duomo to the dinner at Taverna degli Apostoli, were simply divine.
Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Fiordo di Furore and Castello Lauritano, and I can't wait to see what new adventures await. I'm also looking forward to a bit of shopping at Ciuccio. I should probably buy some sunglasses, since I forgot mine!
The Amalfi Coast, you've stolen my heart! This trip with friends is turning out to be even more amazing than I imagined. Good night from Italy!