Are you in search of the perfect place to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Italy’s coastlines? From the sun-kissed shores of the Costiera Amalfitana to the quaint villages of the Cinque Terre, Italy is a treasure trove of breathtaking beauty that is waiting to be explored.
The Costiera Amalfitana: 50km of Edgy Brilliance
The Costiera Amalfitana is a feast for the senses, a 50km stretch of coastline that boasts a mesmerizing mix of natural and man-made beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its spellbinding beauty, where medieval towns seem to tumble down the hillside into the sea and elegant Baroque villas are draped over the landscape. Here, the sky-blue sea is dotted with terraced lemon groves and vineyards, and the air is infused with the sweet fragrance of nature.
The Chic Coastline of Maratea: A Mini-Amalfi Without the Attitude
If you’re in search of a chic and affordable destination, look no further than the sweet and stylish coastline of Maratea in Basilicata. Despite its short 20km length, this hidden gem packs a punch with its beauty and charm. Overseen by a Rio-style statue of Cristo, Maratea boasts a breathtaking coastline that resembles a miniature version of the Amalfi Coast, minus the crowds and chaos.
The Dramatic Coastlines of Puglia: A Journey Through Mystery and Magic
Puglia is home to some of Italy’s most awe-inspiring coastlines, including the mysterious and deeply-forested Gargano Peninsula, a rocky peninsula surrounded by translucent waters and blue sea cliffs. Another standout stretch of coastline can be found between Otranto and Santa Maria de Leuca, where dramatic rocks give way to soft-sand beaches backed by shady forests. In the summer, the cri-cri of the cicale (crickets) fills the air, creating a symphony of sound that is truly unforgettable.
The Otherworldly Aeolian Islands: A Journey Through Myth and Legend
Sicily boasts a stunning coastline of its own, but for a truly out-of-this-world experience, take a short boat ride to the seven Aeolian Islands. These islands are part of a jagged volcanic ridge and are steeped in mythology, appearing in Homer’s Odyssey. With their fine-sand beaches, towering volcanoes, and fierce-blue sea, the Aeolian Islands are a landscape fit for the gods.
The Etruscan Coast: Where Tuscany Meets the Sea
Tuscany is known for its rolling hills and stunning countryside, but the region’s beauty extends to the sea. The Costa degli Etruschi is where Tuscany meets the Mediterranean, and is dotted with ancient ruins and breathtaking views. This coastal gem is home to the Strada del Vino Costa degli Etruschi, a wine route that runs from Livorno to Piombino and across to the island of Elba, offering breathtaking views of the sapphire-blue sea. It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic prison than the one that Napoleon was exiled to.
