Historic villas in Ravello

Kickstarting your Amalfi Coast itinerary, you’ll be driven along the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to Ravello. High in the hills above the town of Amalfi, you’ll check into the luxury 11th century hotel, Belmond Hotel Caruso. Freshly cut flowers, elegant suites and a clifftop infinity pool with Mediterranean views; you can see why our Travel Experts always return to this place. 

Once settled in, you’ll be collected by your private guide and travel to the port town of Amalfi. Rich in history and the perfect place to boat watch, you’ll wander down the flower-filled streets passing clusters of cute cafes and pottery shops, before visiting the impressive 12th century Amalfi Cathedral in Piazza del Duomo. After a morning spent exploring Amalfi, jump back in the car to Ravello to learn about the cliffside village that became famous many years ago. Formerly known as a shelter against Barbarian invasions in the 5th century, Ravello soon became an important town of the maritime Republic of Amalfi in the 9th century, before its listing as a UNESCO World Heritage site in the late 20th century. It’s here you’ll embark on a walking tour of the ancient Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, admiring the balcony views and colourful gardens; two of Ravello’s most beautiful sights.

Hiking the Path of the Gods in Praiano

The next day you’ll drive west from Belmond Hotel Caruso to Casa Angelina on the cliffs edge of Praiano. From the white-washed walls of Angelina, you’ll be in perfect position to hike the Path of the Gods, otherwise known as Sentiero Degli Dei, just north of the hotel.  Said to be used as an ancient passage by Greek Gods in an attempt to save Odysseus from the water’s wailing sirens, you’ll step back in time as you weave past mythical fortresses and hidden caves hearing mystical folk tales from your private guide. Winding its way around the mountain from Bomerano seven kilometres west to Nocelle near Positano, the ancient mule track offers some of the best views of Capri and the rugged coastline ahead. Finishing up in the sleepy mountain village of Nocelle, you’ll get the chance to stop for some freshly squeezed lemon juice and walk on a bit further for a refreshing dip at Arienzo Beach.

Authentic cooking classes in Positano

A quick amble along the coast from Arienzo Beach and you’ll find yourself in the postcard-perfect town of Positano nearby. Laced with vintage outlets, colourful cliffside houses and beautiful beaches, this hidden gem is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Italy. Just a 15-minute drive from Casa Angelina, tomorrow you’ll return for a foodie excursion – but for now, it’s time to retreat back to the hotel’s top-floor bar for a glass of fizz. The next morning, tuck straight into Amalfi’s Mediterranean cuisine with a private cooking class alongside our expert chef. Using fresh ingredients from the region’s fertile volcanic soil, you’ll prepare a four-course meal, learning about the techniques for antipasto, recipes for seafood risotto and tagliatelle, and the baking process of famous lemon desserts. After cooking up a storm in the kitchen, you’ll get to enjoy your creations with a glass of Falanghina wine.

Mozzarella making and Capri day-tripping in Sorrento

Last up on your Amalfi Coast tour you’ll reach the historic town of Sorrento. Venturing out to a local farmhouse for the day, you’ll be greeted with coffee and biscuits, before taking a stroll along the garden to pick your fresh vegetables for the cooking class. From mozzarella cheese and pizza pie-making to Limoncello tasting and olive oil sampling; after learning the ropes of these traditional dishes, you’ll get to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Return to luxury at Bellevue Syrene Hotel perched on top of a cliff in Sorrento for some rest and relaxation. A place where sunlight pours in through balcony windows and late-night terraced dinners last for hours, hunker down for the evening in peace and quiet. 

After an early morning dip in the hotel’s pool the following morning, embark on an exhilarating day trip to Capri. Taking to the water in a private speedboat, your skipper will sail you around Sorrento Bay, before heading southwest towards the stunning coastline of Capri. After hearing about the fascinating history that resides in the cluster of cliff-side hamlets, you’ll go out in search of the ethereal Blue Grotto. Sitting atop an underwater crevasse, the surrounding water of the cave is illuminated by the sunlight entering through the crack, making for a magical sight from the comfort of your gozzo boat.

After discovering Capri Island’s hidden grottos, you’ll dock at the port and head to the Michelin-star Il Roccio restaurant for a lavish lunch. Indulge in our favourite dishes: ravioli capresi, lobster linguine and black cod medallions before hopping back on the boat to Sorrento.