In Ravello, we marvelled at gardens and were stunned by the views. This is probably my favourite place on the Amalfi Coast, not quite off the beaten path but off the well-trodden path and something of a trek to get to. Ravello is a quiet town with an easy soul; it feels like the soothing arms of a loved one, the place you go to be at peace and let life fall away.
The beauty of the sea from above is beguiling, the air is so fresh and there is a jolt of the good life all around. Ravello is where you go to hideaway from the rest of the coast, but also where you find yourself when you want to imbibe the beauty all around. Whilst it is part of the most visited part of Italy, it is still wonderfully slow and delightfully restful. You don’t need more than a day here, a half if you are doing the bus from Amalfi but it is worth it.
The short stop:
Walkabout: little lanes and cobbles streets, there may or may not be friendly town cats who take ownership of gangways but they are harmless. Walk about the town its absolutely lovely.
Eat:
Bella Vista Sul Mare: the food here is so good and the wine list excellent on every trip to Ravello I have often hightailed it here.
Ristorante Rossellini: yes it has its Michelin star but it still remains the least pretentious of a Michelin’d outfit and authentic to its roots. This is my second favourite place to dine… I mean I would say a joint first with Bella Vista.
Cumpa Cosimo: another institution worth your time and journey. I know I said we only come to the Amalfi coast to do nothing but Ravello we journey to for heavenly cuisine. The views are a bonus.
Play:
Villa Rufolo: get lost in the dizzying heights of Villa Rufolo; walk the gardens, get lost in the deep blue sea; and if there is a performance there, there is no better place in the world to watch one.
Villa Cimbrone: want to feel like you are kissing the sky in the company of angels? Head here, it’s heady to say the least and it is where sky kisses the sea.
Duomo di Ravello: a very modern building dating back to 1931 with a mash up of influences obvious to the eye. Inside is the chapel dedicated to St Pantaleon the healer who was beheaded because he converted to Christianity.
Beyond Ravello- Scala: it is said to be the oldest village on the Amalfi Coast and it awaits your discovery; go back in time where texture and a slow pace of life supersedes the allure of glitz and glamour. Old walls tell of ancient history and stories but a place that still packs a punch for a small town. Look beyond to see Ravello standing tall and proud.