Program Overview: A Taste of Italy: Amalfi & Cilento Coasts
Salerno
Our base for the Amalfi Coast region will be Salerno. The program commences with participants' arrival in Salerno on Friday May 22 at our highly-rated rooms and apartments near to the train station and ferry port. Salerno is an ideal base for 5 nights because of its convenient accessibility to the Amalfi Coast, and its vibrant yet less crowded atmosphere and authentic local life. Salerno is a "real town" without the touristy vibe of towns directly on the Amalfi Coast.
We will explore the charming historic center, “fare passegiata” (stroll) along the beautiful Lungomare Trieste seafront and enjoy gelato at Nettuno (the local's favorite), visit the impressive Salerno Cathedral, and enjoy wonderful pasta and pizza together. The Salerno Duomo is special because it is dedicated to Saint Matthew the Evangelist and locals believe it house his relics in its crypt, making it a significant pilgrimage site. It is also a unique blend of architectural styles, featuring elements from Romanesque, Arab-Norman, and Baroque periods, along with historical features like 11th-century bronze doors from Constantinople and 12th-century lion-guarded stairways.
In your free time, you can relax at the lush Minerva's Garden, go up to the Arechi Castle overlooking the city, or stroll along the city's vibrant pedestrian street Corso Vittorio Emanuele or the historic Via del Mercanti with their many shops and eateries. For your breakfast ("colazione"), you can do it in the typical Italian manner of having a croissant ("cornetto") or brioche. On Sunday, we will attend The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sacrament meeting with the local Salerno branch.
We will spend the first three nights of the tour in Salerno and then return after our visit to the Cilento Coast, and spend the final two nights of the tour again in Salerno.


Amalfi Coast
With Salerno as our base, we will explore the Amalfi Coast. One of stops will be Vietri Sul Mare, a vibrant town famous for its colorful ceramics. Here, you will want to browse the local shops and maybe pick up a unique piece to take home. We will visit Ravello, which is perched high above the coastline and renowned for its breathtaking views, elegant gardens like Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, and its peaceful atmosphere. Ravello is also known for its music festivals and historical charm, making it perfect for both relaxation and cultural exploration.
We'll stop in Minori to savor a lemon deliziosa at Sal Riso, an iconic pastry shop that showcases the region's love for citrus flavors. Of course, we will also schedule time to wander through Amalfi, exploring its lively piazzas, the stunning cathedral, and winding alleys filled with shops and cafes. One of the highlights of our trip is an Amalfi Coast Cruise departing from Positano. In Positano, you can admire dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters while enjoying the elegant ambiance of this posh seaside town. You'll find boutique stores and picturesque streets perfect for photos.
A truly memorable experience awaits at our cooking class at Amalfi Heaven Gardens. Here, you'll learn to prepare authentic Italian dishes using fresh, local ingredients growing in its lush gardens. In this setting, you are surrounded by panoramic views overlooking that spectacular Amalfi Coast. This hands-on class not only deepens your appreciation for regional cuisine but also offers a fun and interactive way to connect with fellow travelers and create lasting memories in a stunning setting.


Cilento Coast
After a few days of soaking in the sights of Salerno and the Amalfi Coast, our adventure continues south to the enchanting Cilento region—a UNESCO-protected area famed for its lush landscapes, vibrant seaside villages, and its remarkable connection to the Mediterranean Diet. Known for fostering local longevity, Cilento offers an authentic glimpse into the healthy lifestyle and culinary traditions that have inspired people worldwide.
Begin our Cilento experience with a delightful lunch at a traditional fig farm, where you'll savor local specialties made from the region’s prized produce. Participate in a hands-on Mediterranean diet workshop to learn the secrets behind this celebrated way of eating, guided by the passionate Signora ______who lives and celebrates the tradition every day. Another adventure we will have is embarking on a Blue Coast tour, cruising along pristine shores and stopping at hidden coves to enjoy the stunning blue water.
Our home base in Cilento will be a scenic bed & breakfast in the hilltop town of Castellabate, offering panoramic views, warm hospitality, and a delicious daily breakfast on the terrace. We will stroll through charming seaside villages like Acciaroli, famed for its centenarians and vibrant fishing culture. We will also visit Pioppi and go to the Museum of the Living Mediterranean Diet to deepen your understanding of the Mediterranean Diet’s history and its impact on well-being, rounding out a journey rich in flavors, learning, and unforgettable coastal beauty.


Paestum
A visit to Paestum is truly a must-see when you're in Southern Italy, as it is home to some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world. Walking among these majestic ruins, you'll be transported back more than 2,500 years, marveling at the scale and beauty of the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Neptune. Paestum offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich history and archaeological significance, making it an unforgettable experience for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
Just a short drive from Paestum, we will also visit Tenuta Vannulo, which provides a fascinating experience foodie experience. Here, we will have an engaging tour to learn about the traditional methods of producing bufalo mozzarella, including how the unique manner in which bufalo are cared for on the farm. The highlight is tasting the mozzarella fresh from production—its delicate flavor and creamy texture set it apart from anything you’ll find elsewhere. A highlight will be a visit to the on-site gelateria, where you can savor gelato made from bufalo milk, renowned for its extra creaminess compared to gelato made from cow's milk. This combination of ancient history and culinary delight makes the Paestum area a truly essential stop on our Southern Italian adventure.




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