Positano: Italy’s Cliffside Village on the Amalfi Coast

Positano is a picturesque coastal town located along the stunning Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. Renowned for its colorful cliffside buildings, scenic beaches, and charming streets, Positano is often regarded as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. It is the most visited and most photographed of all the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Positano has a history steeped in maritime tradition and Mediterranean charm. Established by the ancient Romans, it flourished as a prosperous port during medieval times, known for its strategic location and bustling trade in ceramics and coastal goods. The town’s fortunes fluctuated through periods of prosperity and decline, shaped by maritime conquests and cultural exchanges with neighboring regions. In the 20th century, Positano transformed into a haven for artists and writers, drawn by its idyllic scenery and vibrant colors.

Today, Positano remains a beloved destination celebrated for its scenic beauty, historic architecture, and relaxed seaside ambiance, attracting visitors from around the world seeking a glimpse into its rich and storied past.

The Same

During the wedding week, The Dinks organized a scenic boat ride along the coast, including a stop in Positano for lunch. Both The Family and The Dinks enjoyed this time together in the picturesque town, soaking in its beauty and charm. However, they were so captivated by Positano that they decided to return another day to spend more time exploring on their own.

Amble Along the Vertical Streets

Positano’s vertical landscape is an invitation to explore its charming streets. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys lined with boutiques, cafes, and artisan shops. The scent of lemon groves and bougainvillea in the air adds to the magical ambiance. Don’t forget to capture the iconic views of the village cascading down the cliffside. It’s a shoppers paradise.

Relax on Positano’s Beaches

Unwind on the beaches of Positano, where the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea meet the pebbled shores. Spiaggia Grande, the main beach, is a perfect spot for sunbathing and people-watching. For a quieter experience, venture to Fornillo Beach or Arienzo Beach, both accessible by a scenic walk or a short boat ride.

Church of Santa Maria Assunta

Dominating the town’s skyline is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, known for its striking dome and colorful majolica-tiled dome. Inside the church, visitors can admire medieval frescoes and a Byzantine-style icon of the Virgin Mary.

Indulge in Italian Culinary Delights

Positano is a food lover’s paradise, offering a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. Savor fresh seafood dishes, homemade pasta, and the region’s renowned limoncello at local trattorias and restaurants. For a romantic dining experience, choose a clifftop restaurant with panoramic views, where you can enjoy a delicious meal as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.

Seafood: Given its coastal location, Positano is renowned for its fresh seafood dishes. Local catches like anchovies, tuna, swordfish, and squid feature prominently on menus. Try dishes such as Spaghetti alle Vongole (spaghetti with clams), Grilled Fish with Lemon and Herbs, or Seafood Risotto.
Lemons: The Amalfi Coast is famous for its lemons, particularly the large and fragrant variety known as “sfusato amalfitano.” Lemons are used in various dishes and products like limoncello liqueur, lemon sorbet, and desserts such as Torta Caprese (almond and chocolate cake with lemon zest).
Pasta: Enjoy pasta dishes that showcase local flavors, often featuring seafood or fresh vegetables. Favorites include Pasta al Limone (pasta with a creamy lemon sauce), Ravioli Capresi (ravioli stuffed with caciotta cheese and marjoram in a tomato sauce), and Gnocchi alla Sorrentina (potato gnocchi with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella).
Pizza: While Naples is renowned for pizza, you can find delicious wood-fired pizzas in Positano as well. Try classic Neapolitan-style pizzas topped with local ingredients like buffalo mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Mozzarella di Bufala: This creamy and delicate cheese, made from water buffalo milk, is a staple in many dishes in Positano. Enjoy it in Insalata Caprese (tomato, mozzarella, and basil salad), on pizzas, or simply with fresh bread and olive oil.
Caprese Salad: A simple yet delicious salad made with ripe tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It’s a classic dish that highlights the quality of local ingredients.
Local Wines: Pair your meals with wines from the Campania region, such as Lacryma Christi (meaning “Tears of Christ”), a white wine made from grapes grown on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, or Aglianico, a robust red wine.
Dolci (Desserts): Indulge in traditional desserts like Delizia al Limone (lemon sponge cake soaked in limoncello liqueur), Sfogliatella (shell-shaped pastry filled with sweet ricotta and candied fruit), or Baba al Limoncello (rum-soaked cake with lemon).

The DINKs

Path of the Gods

Also known as “Il Sentiero degli Dei” in Italian, The Path of the gods is a spectacular hiking trail located along the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. Renowned for its breathtaking views and dramatic scenery, the Path of the Gods is considered one of the most stunning hiking trails in the world. Stretching approximately 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles) from the town of Bomerano to Nocelle, the Path of the Gods winds its way along the coastal cliffs, offering panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, picturesque villages, and rugged landscape below. The trail takes its name from the ancient legends that once believed it was the path taken by the gods to reach the sea.

We spent the morning doing the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) which ends in Positano. Unfortunately we took it the “wrong way” starting at the stairs meaning we had to climb almost 2,000 stairs. By the time we reached the time we only had enough in us to start the scenic part of the trail.

The Family

Positano’s allure is undeniable, but it often comes with crowds that can detract from the experience. Despite our limited time with The Dinks, we decided to make a return visit to explore further. However, the overwhelming crowds prompted us to cut our visit short and venture to another town along the coast in search of a more tranquil atmosphere.

Summary

Perched on the rugged cliffs of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Positano captivates with its unparalleled beauty and charm. This picturesque village, characterized by pastel-colored houses tumbling down to the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, offers visitors a serene escape amidst stunning natural surroundings. Whether winding through narrow alleys lined with boutiques and cafés, lounging on sun-kissed beaches, or dining on fresh seafood overlooking the Mediterranean, Positano exudes an atmosphere of romance and relaxation. Its timeless allure and breathtaking vistas make Positano a quintessential destination that leaves an indelible impression on all who visit.

Doubletake Travel

Two Takes on Positano: Italy’s Dreamy Cliffside Village on the Amalfi Coast