Travel Eye on Ravello (Italy)

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Overview:

Ravello is rich in ancient villas, archaeological remains, ecclesiastical treasures and splendid gardens. It measures 1 mile from North to South and ¼ mile East to West. The village slopes gently down the hillside from a central pedestrianised piazza dominated by a remarkable 11th-century cathedral and its 13th-century bell tower.

The cobbled and stepped streets, coupled with an almost total ban on cars, create an atmosphere of unhurried tranquillity, a romantic haven from the bustle of the outside world. Middle- and upmarket couples. Peace-seekers, history buffs, photographers, writers and artists seeking an atmospheric base away from the more sophisticated resorts nearby. You will find a couple of 5-star hotels, half-a-dozen 4-stars and some small, simple properties in and around the village centre.

Some incorporate well-preserved Roman and medieval architectural remains. A little self catering. Regular bus service to nearby Amalfi, with onward connections to Salerno, Sorrento and Naples. A small local taxi firm is also available to tourists.

Locality:

Ravello is situated a third of the way up the boot of Italy, high above the Amalfi Coast, overlooking Salerno Bay (20 miles West of Salerno, 7 miles North of Amalfi, 172 mls South East of Rome, 44 miles South East of Naples and its international airport). Ravello is set on the narrow peninsula between the Bays of Naples and Salerno, high up - over 1,000 ft above sea level on a hilltop embraced by wooded hills with similar small picturesque villages.

Entertainment/Attractions/Things to do:

There are no beaches in the immediate vicinity. The nearest beaches can be found in Amalfi or Minori. Daytime offers a choice of Roman and medieval remains in the shape of stone arches, cloisters and churches.

There are several attractive formal gardens for botanical lovers. Beautiful, abundant panoramas for artists and photographers. Hitch-hikers can take ambitious walks on the old footpaths and steps which until the 1900s were the only links between villages and down to the coastal towns.

Night time is generally low-key, limited to hotel entertainments or sitting in cafes and the odd bar. Chamber-music/concerts appear at Villa Rufolo from March to October. There are roughly half-a-dozen small restaurants and pizzerias around the main square and a couple in the side streets.

The majoriy food is typical pasta dishes, local smoked ham, anchovies, fish, seafood, grilled local cheese and local wines. There are no organised programmes, but visitors are within easy reach of several larger resorts such as Sorrento (for boats to Capri and Ischia), Amalfi and Maiori.