Italy is a country blessed with more than its fair share of scenic road trips, but one of the most spectacular is without doubt the road that clings to the shoreline along the beautiful Amalfi Coast.
Known locally as the Costiera Amalfitana, this breathtaking route skirts the southern flank of the Sorrentine Peninsula in the country’s stunning Campania region, less than an hour’s drive south of Naples. Following the SS163 (more commonly referred to as the Amalfi Drive), it’s difficult to keep your eyes on the road as the vertical cliffs plunge straight down into the clear blue Mediterranean waters below.
There’s no better way of experiencing this enchanting stretch of pristine Italian coastline than with your own transport, thus enabling you and your passengers the opportunity to stop at will whenever and wherever you want to savour the views along the way. With Auto Europe – a leading international car hire specialist established in 1954 – you can choose from a wide range of affordable vehicles, large or small, and explore the Amalfi Coast in total comfort and at your own pace. Look out for the company’s regular deals running throughout the year, such as free additional drivers, complimentary upgrades, weekend specials and GPS included.
The Start – Sorrento
Our road trip starts in Sorrento, a charming coastal town situated in a prime location overlooking the Bay of Naples, with head-spinning views of Mount Vesuvius dominating the background. Its historic centre is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone lanes and alleyways set around the exquisite 14th-century church of St Francis. The road east from Sorrento winds through a typically Neapolitan landscape of umbrella pines, oak trees and fertile olive groves until it meets the SS163 at a point from which the Amalfi Drive really begins.
Positano
Heading south brings the sparkling Mediterranean Sea back into view as this idyllic coastline of traditional Italian seaside towns and centuries-old fishing villages slowly unfolds. Our first port of call is Positano, a delightful little place that spills down a vertiginous slope to a haven of tranquillity right on the waterfront. Further east lies Praiano, a fashionable beach resort with several upmarket restaurants offering some of the freshest fish and seafood dishes in the Campania region.
Amalfi
Continuing your journey east along the SS163 affords some of the most magnificent seascapes in the whole of Italy. This part of the coast is a feast for the eyes with its succession of exhilarating twists and turns, passing several quaint little fishing villages en route. When you arrive in Amalfi, you’ll quickly discover that this picturesque Mediterranean port will be another highlight of your road trip. Once a powerful maritime hub with strong trade links with the Orient, the city today is a magical blend of fine architecture featuring many well-preserved Byzantine, Moorish and medieval buildings, most notably the Arab-Norman St Andrew’s Cathedral right in the heart of the Old Town.
Pompeii
The drive back to Naples is quick, easy and very well signposted with the added treat of offering drivers the rare chance to see the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, which was famously destroyed by a volcanic eruption in AD 79. Today it stands frozen in time with its original layout still very much intact, including the Forum, marketplace, baths, temples, stores and numerous villas, which are all open to visitors. Just north of Pompeii lies Vesuvius National Park whose striking centrepiece is the mighty volcano itself which last erupted in 1944. Note that there is good road access within 200 metres (660 feet) of the summit, which means that you’ll be able to finish your journey along the glorious Amalfi Coast in grand style!
