cilento travel experience

You’ve probably never been to Cilento. Here’s why you should go

Aug 24, 2023 • 9 min read

Stunning Cilento is the Italian paradise you didn't know you needed © Antonio Busiello / Getty Images

A Unesco site in its entirety, Cilento is a vast and varied area in the southernmost part of Campania , Italy. Often overshadowed by its showy neighbors, Naples and the Amalfi Coast, the underrated Cilento enjoys more relaxed rhythms.

Beyond its most popular attraction, the Ancient Greek town of Paestum, there are many natural and man-made wonders that await you. If you’ve never heard of Cilento, its 80 towns, a national park, archaeological sights, mountains, hills, and miles and miles of beaches is what you’ve been missing out on. Not to mention the food and lifestyle that grant its residents near immortality – people here live much longer than in the rest of Italy. On average, 0.3 inhabitants out of 10 are over 100 years old.

Cilento is the home of the famed Mediterranean Diet that promises health and wellbeing without compromising on the life-affirming pleasures of delicious dining. The idea of “limiting carb intake” doesn’t exist here – bread and pasta are staples, as are legumes, fruit and vegetables from one’s own sun-drenched garden. People in these remote villages take things slow – part of Cilento's charm is the lack of mass tourism, so be respectful of this gentler approach to living.

You could easily spend a month visiting every town, trekking every path, and visiting every beach. If your vacation time is a little more limited, here's what we think you should prioritize on your first (but certainly not your last...) visit to Cilento.

Discover the best preserved Greek temples in Paestum

Almost 3000 years ago, the Ancient Greeks arrived on these shores. They populated the area with their ideas and customs, shaping the land and culture in their image. The Greek colony Poseidonia, later called Paestum , is the only surviving example of a Magna-Grecian town. Its three magnificent Greek temples are among the best preserved in the world.

The highlights are the two temples dedicated to Hera and a smaller one dedicated to Athena, which were built in Doric style in the fifth century BCE. You can also walk in the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, thermal baths, and various shops and houses. Download the Paestum phone app and enjoy a solo tour at your own pace.

The open-air archaeological park of Paestum is massive, but the experience is intimate: while carefully curated, it looks wild and unexplored, and you get to walk freely around the ruins. Compared to the ever-crowded Pompeii, this feels isolated and nestled in an idyllic landscape – even in high season, you may not encounter anyone else on your tour.

In summer, it’s best to walk the park in the early morning and then head inside the covered museum to escape the hot sun. There you can admire world-famous images like the Tomb of the Diver, as well as relics from Ancient Greek and Roman times.

For lunch, avoid the cafes and restaurants next to the site and instead drive 30 minutes north to Battipaglia. Pick a caseificio (cheese-making factory) and try their mozzarella di bufala DOP, as well as an array of various local dairy products.

Visit Europe’s biggest charterhouse in Padula

Venture to the inland town of Padula, in the heart of Vallo di Diano. There you can visit the largest charterhouse monastery in Europe, Certosa di San Lorenzo , first built in 1306.

Don’t be fooled by its unassuming exterior – inside the Certosa is a syncretism of styles, a triumph of Baroque juxtaposed against austere monastic spaces. The charterhouse’s structure is based on the typical concept of the monastery as a self-sufficient city, but the Certosa’s ornaments were embellished time and again over the centuries. The church, chapels, treasury, and dining halls are a testament to the splendor the Certosa once had, and are a stark contrast with the bare, tiny cells the Carthusian monks would sleep in.

You won’t run into any monks now, as the Certosa di Padula now operates as a museum, but you can still trace the steps they would take on their daily schedule. Pause in the Chiostro Grande, the massive cloister (104 x 149 meters) that took nearly two centuries to complete. The view is especially evocative because the town of Padula on top of the hill seems to dominate the Certosa.

The monastery also houses a museum, the Museo Archeologico Provinciale della Lucania Occidentale . The collection of tombs, vases, funerary items, columns and other items hosts archaeological findings from all over Vallo di Diano, dating back to the tenth century BCE until the sixth century CE.

Eat local produce and experience the Mediterranean Diet 

The food that grows in Cilento is unlike any other in the world – and it’s as close to an immortality elixir as you're likely to get. American physiologist Ancel Keys (creator of the K-ration during WWII) spent most of his life studying the habits of Cilentani and codified the Mediterranean Diet here in Cilento.

The “diet” is less about excluding certain foods, but rather preferring some over others for reasons of availability. When in Cilento, eat as the Cilentani do: savor their local produce.

Enjoy some of Cilento’s typical pasta, the rigorously handmade fusilli cilentani (a type of elongated fusilli). The dish can come with a meat sauce or accompanied by local vegetables such as tomatoes, zucchini or eggplant. Whatever you have, make sure you get a taste of the white artichokes of Pertosa, either as a side, in a salad or as a spread.

You can't leave without trying the local charcuteries like their dried seasoned sausage or the soppressata di Gioi, along with the famous dairy products mozzarella and ricotta di bufala , and the wide variety of caciocavallo cheeses. Pair them with homemade jam and marmalades made from local produce, like Cilento’s white fig DOP, the sweetest in Italy. Have as much Cilento extra virgin olive oil as politely allowed, and always add spices and herbs to your dishes. Ask for polvere di peperone crusco (dust obtained from grinding a local pepper), the maroon seasoning that is often sprinkled onto vegetable dishes, which can be sweet or hot. Oh, and sprinkle rosemary onto your meat and potatoes… it’s believed to be the key ingredient to longevity.

The Mediterranean Diet is not just about food, but part of the lifestyle of Cilento in general. It’s how these foods are still cultivated and consumed as they have always been, in ways that are ethical and sustainable. In 2010 the Mediterranean Diet became protected by Unesco as Intangible Cultural Heritage, and Cilento is the perfect place to experience why it's considered so important.

Explore the Pertosa caves

The Grotte (caves) of Pertosa-Auletta are the only place in Italy where you can sail along an underground river. Dark and deep, the Pertosa grotte look like (and have been) the set of a horror movie, a feeling only softened by the colorful artificial lights. The temperature goes down significantly underground, so bring something warmer than your summer outfit, and be prepared for slippery stone floors.

A guided tour will bring you on a boat ride along the underground river before you alight and walk amidst thousands of stalactites and stalagmites forming incredible shapes, and discover the remains of civilizations that are four thousand years old.

Human presence has been documented in Cilento for half a million years, and the Grotte di Pertosa show signs of being inhabited since the mid-Bronze Age. They contain remains from prehistoric settlements and even traces of what was briefly and erroneously considered a different species of Paleolithic hominid, Homo Camaerotensis, a supposed missing link in human evolution.

Enjoy Cilento's sandy beaches 

The beaches of Cilento sit along a coastal strip – over 100 kilometers long – facing emerald waters between the Gulf of Salerno and the Gulf of Policastro. Along the coast there are 16 towns and myriad smaller hamlets where you can enjoy the seaside with little fear of over-crowded cafes and restaurants.

If you’re a fan of sandy beaches or are traveling with children, consider the towns of Agropoli and Marina di Ascea for their golden-colored sand ample space for children to play. Driving south, the picturesque Punta Licosa welcomes you with crystalline waters, white sand and wild Mediterranean scrub; this land was once believed to be inhabited by sirens. Proceeding further south, stop at Acciaroli , the enchanting village where Ernest Hemingway was inspired to write The Old Man and the Sea.

Head to the archaeological site of Velia for a history lesson or a theater show and visit the ruins of the ancient city of Elea, which gave birth to the Greek philosopher Parmenides and his school of thought. If you’re also visiting Paestum, one ticket will be valid for both sites.

Don’t miss the natural beauty of the protected beaches of Santa Maria di Castellabate and Costa degli Infreschi e della Masseta, or the marine grottoes on the coast of Palinuro and Marina di Camerota.

How to get to Cilento and where to stay

Cilento is best explored by car – there are limited public transportation options inland. A few train stations in Vallo di Diano exist but have been closed for years; the closest is Battipaglia. From there, the national railway service runs a handful of substitute buses every day to and from Napoli , while the public bus company SITA Sud also runs services between Salerno and Pertosa.

Even with those optoins, bus services can be sporadic. Independent travel by car is much more convenient and gives you optimal flexibility. Public transport is much more plentiful along the coast, as regional trains (Trenitalia), high-speed ones (Italo), and public buses connect most towns and run multiple times per day.

The closest airport is the Airport of Naples in Capodichino; from there, it will be a couple of hours drive depending on which part of Cilento you want to reach first. The new airport Salerno-Costa d’Amalfi just outside of Salerno will be slightly closer to Cilento; it is expected to open for commercial flights in 2024.

A lovely place to stay and relax while getting the full local experience in Padula is Fattoria Alvaneta , a family-run hilltop B&B farm that can be a challenge to get to even by car, but is definitely worth it. Their dinner menu is based on local produce – authentic, filling and simply delicious.

For a lively holiday, pick a hotel or camping site in the seaside towns of Ascea, Palinuro, or Marina di Camerota. You’ll be close to the beach with many options for activities in and out of the water. From there you can easily move up and down the coast by car or train.

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Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

Italy’s Best Kept Secret: The Cilento Coast

By Jennifer Dombrowski 15 Comments

The Cilento Coast is one of the most unspoiled parts of the Campania region and it’s just two hours south of the chaos of Naples. Yet, this part of Italy is still hugely off the tourist radar. With hardly a blip about Cilento in the guide books, American and British travelers flock to the popular (and over-crowded, if you ask me) Amalfi Coast.

I once wrote why I thought Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast was better than the Amalfi Coast and once again, I found the Cilento Coast to be more my speed. You see, it’s not that I don’t agree that the Amalfi Coast is stunning. In fact, I adore Ravello. But to be honest, I find it a bit boring.

Long a retreat for the chic Italians to holiday and stay cooler than in cities like Rome when the temperatures soar, the Amalfi Coast has kept its traditional Italian seaside retreat vibe. The whole point of a holiday there is to sit on the (mostly) rocky beaches, then indulge in a long lunch, shop, have an apertivo and then indulge in another long dinner. Open some kayak or stand-up paddle boarding rental shops and I’ll likely be singing a different tune.

The people of the Cilento seemed to be a bit more like the coast itself: wild and rugged. Here is where the Italian adventurers have been hiding, or rather, flocking each summer. But in true Italian fashion, even the adventurers can appreciate the finer things in life.

The Cilento Coast has miles of sandy beaches

Less than one hour from Salerno, Paestum is home to some of the best preserved ancient Greek temples in the world. Paestum is also home to a cluster of buffalo farms that produce Italy’s best mozzarella di bufala.

Wait. What? Greek temples and buffalo?

Looking through the three side-by-side temples

Paestum was founded by the Greek Achaeans around 600BC under the original name Poseidonia. It became Paestum in 273BC after the Graeco-Italian Poseidonians sided with the loser, Pyrrhus, in war against the Romans. It was a major ancient Greek city with a system of roads, temples and defensive walls.

Temple of Neptune

Today, the most notable features of the archeological site are the three extremely well preserved templates that have been excavated.

The buffalo haven’t been around quite as long as the Greek temples and it isn’t exactly known how they got here. Some say that the buffalo were brought to Sicily from Egypt; others say that the Goths brought them. Either way, they’ve been around for many centuries.

You might be surprised to know that the buffalo are actually water buffalo that can be found wallowing in swimming holes in Asia. They aren’t the big bison we have in the US.

It also wasn’t until the 18th century that their fatty, rich milk was turned in to cheese. Since the milk is too fatty and rich to drink like cow’s milk, it’s perfect for making the creamy mozzarella di bufala.

Mozzarella di bufala doesn’t get any fresher than this!

Buffalo mozzarella is made from the unpasteurized buffalo milk and has a shelf life of about 4 – 5 days. Though I can pick it up at any grocery store here in Italy, I’ve never tasted a little ball of mozzarella as good as when I visited the Barlotti farm in Paestum. It’s best to visit the farms in the early afternoon so that you can purchase that day’s freshly made mozzarella di bufala.

The balls of mozzarella drop in to a vat of boiling water

The unpasteurized milk is allowed to ferment for about three hours. It is then chopped in to pieces and covered in boiling water. A machine forms the tiny balls of mozzarella. Sometimes the pieces are even braided, as one of the workers showed us.

Workers bag the finished mozzarella di bufala

The balls of mozzarella get a salt water was and then are returned to their whey, which the liquid they soak in to keep moist when you buy a container or bag from the store.

Aside from stunning Greek temples and delicious mozzarella di bufala, Paestum also has miles of beautiful white sand beaches. And unlike the Amalfi Coast where nearly every sunbed was occupied even mid-week, there were barely a handful of people on the beach.

A pastry stuffed with mozzarella di bufala and ricotta with pumpkin sauce at Oleandri Resort

The Oleandri Resort is just a few minutes drive from the archeological site and has a private beach for guests. They also have a restaurant and we enjoyed lunch there. The pastry filled with mozzarella di bufala and ricotta with a pumpkin sauce is a must try.

The toughest decision at Palazzo Belmonte is pool or private beach

Palazzo Belmonte

We travel a little further south down the Cilento Coast to the village of Santa Maria di Castellabate. Not only does the village have a sandy beach steps away from its center, it also has its very own prince in residence, Angelo di Belmonte, who lives in the 17th-century Palazzo Belmonte.

Lucky for me, Palazzo Belmonte is also a luxury hotel. It has a few suites in the oldest part of the castle and more modern rooms in an annex building above the gardens. I felt like a princess as I climbed up the stairs to my suite in the castle.

The sunsets are just better in Cilento

Imagine my surprise as the phone rang and I answered to be told that Prince Belmonte himself was waiting in the garden to have an apertivo with us. Over a glass of wine and with a view of the stunning sunset, I learned a bit about the palazzo’s history and the Prince’s vision for his guests to enjoy this little slice of paradise.

Though in a small village far away from the tourist services of the Amalfi Coast like ferries, Palazzo Belmonte can arrange boats to take guests directly from the palazzo to Capri or the Amalfi Coast.

Touring the port of Acciaroli

Heading even further south along the Cilento Coast, we came to the village of Acciaroli. The tiny fishing village was a favorite of Hemingway, who came here in 1952 after he’d finished writing “The Old Man and the Sea”. Hemingway would spend hours in the bars along the seaside promenade.

The village is small and there isn’t much to do but wander the little shops like the shoemaker who makes custom shoes for you or the handcrafted pottery shop.

It is charming though and worth a few hours to explore, perhaps relaxing on the seaside promenade with a spritz Aperol or having a lunch of fresh fish.

Cape of Palinuro

Even further south in Palinuro the coastline is rugged and riddled with sea caves. This is Italy’s most extensive cave system and divers flock to explore the underwater cave network. Well, mainly Italian divers.

The water glows from an underwater light source

Capri’s famous (and packed) Blue Grotto isn’t the only place to see water so blue that it takes your breath away. The Cape of Palinuro has a cave by the same name and the water is illuminated from below. From Palinuro’s port, you can hire little boats to take you out along the peninsula to five of the sea caves and our boat was the only one there.

Unfortunately, the sea was rough on the day I went out and we weren’t able to visit to the other caves. I was looking forward to seeing the Blood Cave, where a red algae makes the cave walls appear that they are dripping blood.

The Natural Arch

The Natural Arch is one of Cilento National Park’s most important natural monuments. Unfortunately, heavy rains and natural erosion caused a partial collapse on the upper facade back in 2007. The netting has been put in place along with safety measures such as the passage so that people can still enjoy its beauty. But go soon because geologists predict that there is no halting the natural destruction of the arch.

Hiking along an old mule track in Palinuro

The Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park of Palinuro is a haven for rock climbers and hikers. There are many hiking trails, including coastal paths that hug the rugged sea cliffs. Not only can you see stunning sea views, there are many interesting watch towers that stand in various stages of ruins. You can even find a lighthouse or two. Check the Park website for recommended itineraries.

Know Before You Go

• Rooms at  Palazzo Belmonte start at €238 per night for a double room mid-season.
• Rooms at  Oleandri Resort Paestum start at €167 per night for a double room.
• Rooms at Grand Hotel San Pietro Palinuro start at €139 per night for a double sea view room.

Loved this post? We love when you share our content! ~ Jen & Tim

About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

July 14, 2015 at 12:05 AM

Beautiful area! You really take beautiful photos of the scenery and food!

Amanda says

July 14, 2015 at 3:10 AM

Oh my gosh, how I miss fresh mozzarella! Thank you for sharing this secret with me/the blogosphere. I would love to get back to Italy someday soon, and the Cilento Coast has just rocketed to the top of my list.

Marlene dombrowski says

July 14, 2015 at 2:05 PM

On my bucket list. A great way to unwind and enjoy the scenery

July 22, 2015 at 1:03 AM

My husband is Italian and he’s never been to Italy – it’s on our bucket list!! Love these gorgeous photos!

Kimberly says

July 24, 2015 at 8:33 PM

Positively stunning!! And I love your peek inside the mozzarella factory, how fun! Gorgeous photos (on my bucket list – obviously!) and thanks so much for sharing your experience!

Carrie says

July 25, 2015 at 6:20 PM

Well, I am sold! The Cilento Coast looks amazing. I had definitely never heard of it before reading your post though. I think I would travel there just for that mozzarella alone. 😉

Deborah says

July 25, 2015 at 8:56 PM

So amazingly beautiful!! And that cheese?? I die!

July 26, 2015 at 10:07 PM

What an epic adventure – I love places off the beaten path – and this defeintely would be more my speed than the typical packed tourist routes.

Lauren says

July 27, 2015 at 1:50 PM

That mozzarella—>!!!!!!!!!!! I need Italy in my life!

Rachelle says

July 27, 2015 at 5:17 PM

OMG … the mozzarella! That’s reason enough for me to go. We just don’t get the delicious creamy fresh tasting stuff like that here in the states. The cape and the temples look beautiful! Great place to walk off all the mozzarella I’d eat. 😉

Joanie says

July 28, 2015 at 1:41 AM

I’m bookmarking this for our next trip to Italy. We’ve spent most our time in Rome and Florence and I would love to explore this area. It looks absolutely beautiful.

July 29, 2015 at 9:12 AM

I love the photos of the temples. Who knew about the buffalo there?! The balls dropping in the water look so cool. The secret is out!

February 28, 2016 at 3:58 PM

This is amazing! I hate flocks of people! Would there be any hostels in this area?

Jennifer Dombrowski says

March 8, 2016 at 6:59 PM

Hi Gina, we don’t stay in hostels so certainly aren’t experts on them. I would think that you would be able to find them though. I’d check a hostel booking site like Hostelworld and search for cities like Agropoli and Paestum.

Zì Peppo says

July 26, 2022 at 3:31 PM

Wait… you went through Cilento’s coast and skipped the place where Parmenide and Zenone were born? The place that hosts the most ancient round arch in Italy? The place that gave birth to the eleatic medical school? Buuuuuuuuuuu. You should visit Ascea also! And… do not forget that Camerota has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Country and one of the most famous in Europe.

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Hidden Gems along the Cilento Coast: a beautiful surprise in Southern Italy

Italy is an amazing travel destination for a complete and variegated experience. While exploring Italy you are going to marvel at several different sides of a unique country: from the seaside to the countryside going through beautiful artistic cities, there are so many things to see and do during a trip to Italy! Here is my quest for hidden gems along the Cilento coast.

One thing that is actually affecting the way tourists know Italy is a lack of promotion of some of the best Italian places that are not so common or usual as touristic hubs and highlights. Today we are here to show you which are the Italian hidden gems you should totally add to your itinerary for a trip made up of authenticity, tradition and breathtaking beauty: today we are getting to know southern Italy a little bit more. Are you ready for it? Let’s get started!

Learning something more about the Cilento Coast

Of course, you may have heard about the infamous Amalfi Coast… but, what if there is another amazing coastal road rich in amazing seaside scenarios, ancient ruins and crystal clear waters for a rejuvenating swim? Cilento Coast is this and so much more. Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Cilento is a magical land lying on a crystalline sea, where stretches of wild coastline alternate with golden beaches and villages perched in the mountains.

Still little known for mass tourism, it is the right place for those looking for an enchanting sea, wild nature, villages rich in history and culture and tasty local dishes with Mediterranean flavors. All without having to face long journeys. The Cilento coast is located on the Salerno coast, a few kilometers south from Naples and Salerno. Its strategic position near Naples makes this place a perfect travel destination for some exciting mind-blowing road trips from the city and exploring all those amazing seaside villages for a trip to remember. Some towns worth putting on your list:

Paestum and its ancient temples

Castellabate with crystal blue and green waterfront

Agropoli with its castle

Palinuro for its caves and natural beauties

Also, don’t forget to put Acciaroli on your list. It’s a little, picturesque fishermen’s village which still delivers their catch to local eateries in the town. The spirit of the old fishing village is still breathed in the alleys and shops of the town center, giving moments in which to forget all the stress and worries of everyday life.

Did you know that Italians love this area so much that they enjoy vacationing in this area and some even have their summer homes here? Places like this make me realize that sometimes, mass tourism might actually do more harm than good. While tourism, done right, is helpful to local economies, it’s also important to preserve areas like this to keep traditions and ways of life still…well, alive. You won’t find any tourist traps here.

Holidays in Cilento are an immersion in nature and history. Where legends blend with reality and enchant with Italian way of life. But this destination is also a dream for sea lovers because many of Italy’s most beautiful beaches are right here. I am a big supporter of authentic travel experiences that encompass, traditions, local culture and historical background and the Cilento Coast is the perfect place to experience all of this.

From exploration to relaxation , Cilento Coast can give you all that for a balanced and really satisfying traveling experience. It really doesn’t matter if you love art, history or nature, Cilento has you covered! You will be amazed by the natural landscapes, the beautiful ancient ruins from old towers and castles and many astonishing viewpoints. 

Another big plus? Food in this area is just to die for and you will have the chance to taste the best of Italy’s southern dishes from pizza to mozzarella cheese to the freshest seafood. Each place has its own typical cuisine giving you a glimpse of the most authentic and traditional roots of one of the best-hidden travel destinations.

A special and surprising journey to immerse yourself in nature, culture and undoubtedly in the beautiful waters of the Cilento. This is the second largest national park in Italy with its wild and undiscovered mountains, crossed only by old mule tracks and paths. From the marine habitats to the hilly ones, from the fluvial habitats to the mountain ones, the National Park of Cilento and Vallo di Diano has one of the most varied and significant plant and animal ecosystems in Italy and definitely worth checking out.

The Cilento Coast and its unmissable beauties are waiting for you for a travel experience you won’t forget! 

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Exploring Cilento Italy, The Best-Kept Secret South of Naples

• Amalfi Coast

May 30, 2023

South of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Sorrento, lies Cilento (pronounced chee-lento). Cilento, Italy encompasses a coastal subregion of Campania that stretches from the town of Paestum to the Marina di Camerota, with a lush and hilly national park inland. The region has a lot to offer travelers looking for a serene and authentic Southern Italian experience.

Cilento’s history spans thousands of years, and it has witnessed the rise and fall of various civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and the Kingdom of Naples . The region’s historical legacy is evident in its UNESCO archaeological sites and medieval hill towns.

While Cilento is a popular beach destination for Neapolitans, it remains pretty much unknown among international tourists. But the region’s mouth-watering food culture and beautiful natural scenery is definitely worth exploring. What’s more, the Cilento Coast allows you to take in the same wonderful scenery (and cuisine) as the Amalfi Coast while avoiding the crowds.

The Cilento region features stunning places such as Castellabate. Photo credit: Gianpaolo Antonucci

Table of Contents

Cilento vs. Amalfi Coast – Which is better for you?

The main advantages of Cilento over the Amalfi Coast are serenity, affordability, and authenticity. Cilento offers a more peaceful experience compared to the Amalfi Coast. It is less crowded and generally much more budget-friendly in terms of accomodation and dining. Because most international travelers have never heard of Cilento, exploring the region can really give travelers a sense of discovery and adventure. It’s also great for those interested in farmstays and local food festivals.

There are disadvantages, though: there’s not much infrastructure for transportation, and there are less developed tourist amenities. Because of the lack of transport, it’s a better option for travelers who choose to rent a car or motorcycle. In addition, Cilento has almost no nightlife compared to the Amalfi Coast. It’s a very family-friendly region, but if you’re looking for nightlife, stick to the Amalfi Coast or Naples.

The Cilento coast is home to some beautiful sites – and usually isn’t as busy as the Amalfi Coast. Photo credit: Mario Esposito

Getting around Cilento

To reach the coastal towns of Cilento, you can take the train from the central station of Naples to Agropoli, Paestum, Ascea, or Pisciotta. Once there, local buses can take you to inland areas or beautiful coastal towns.

Renting a car directly at the Naples airport is the best option if you plan to spend time exploring the region. It’s also an amazing region to explore by motorcycle.

Top things to do and see in Cilento

Unesco world heritage archeological sites.

Cilento is home to several UNESCO world heritage sites , and two archeological parks – Paestum and Velia . The archeological site of Paestum boasts some of the largest and best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world, dating back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC. We highly recommend a visit.

Velia is an ancient city founded in the 6th century BC that has remains of various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. It’s less impressive visually than Paestum, but is great for history buffs and families.

Paestum’s Temple of Hera II is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in Italy. Photo credit: Antonio Sessa

Beaches & coastal scenery

Charming towns dot the entire coastline of Cilento. You really can’t go wrong: all of the beaches have lovely scenery with rolling hills and clean blue water. Here are three of the best beach spots to check out:

• Agropoli , known for its ancient fortress and a delightful historic center, has lots of beautiful sand beaches to enjoy. It’s on a train line for easy transportation access from Naples.
• Marina di Ascea has one of the longest sand beaches with free public areas, beach clubs, and a long wooden boardwalk. Romantic sunset walks, anyone?
• Further down the coast lies Palinuro , with crystal clear waters, a blue grotto (Grotta Azzurra—yes, just like the more famous one on Capri), and a massive natural stone arch to admire.

Palinuro’s Grotta Azzurra is quite similar to the one in Capri. Photo credit: Mboesch

Hiking & mountain towns

Cilento is home to many picturesque hill towns. Castellabate, a medieval village perched atop a hill, is absolutely worth a visit. You can stroll through its narrow streets and visit the 12th-century castle.

Insider’s Tip: Castellabate is well known in Italy because it was the set of the famous comedy movie Benvenuti al Sud , about the differences between Northern and Southern Italy.

Another town worth visiting is Trentinara, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s also home to Cilento in Volo , an exhilarating zipline that allows visitors to soar from mountain to mountain. The flight provides thrill seekers great aerial views.

Cilento’s rugged coastline is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers as well. The Sentiero degli Innamorati in Marina di Ascea is a hiking trail that follows the coastline and gives you lovely views of the sea. It’s only about two hours round trip, so it’s accessible for moderate hikers and those looking for a morning or afternoon activity.

The more advanced Sentiero del Cervati takes you through a rugged mountain landscape and is a great option for hiking enthusiasts. We recommend splitting the hike and staying at the mountain hut Rifugio Cerviati .

Charming Castellabate is one of our top picks for hiking in Cilento Italy. Photo credit: Enrico Pighetti

Exploring Cilento traditions

Cilento is famous among Neapolitans for its rich culinary culture, especially agriturismi (farmstays). An agriturismo is a type of bed and breakfast connected to one or more local farms. They are often in charming rustic cottages or rural homes. Visitors can choose to stay there overnight, or just eat lunch or dinner there.

Staying at an agriturismo allows guests to immerse themselves in the countryside life and savor traditional Cilentan cuisine made with the absolute freshest ingredients.

Food festivals

Cilento hosts a variety of sagre (food festivals) throughout the year, each centered around one specific seasonal type of food. They usually start in the early evening and have food stands, lively music, and dancing. When traveling to Cilento, be sure to look up any sagre of the season.

A popular festival is the Festa del Fico Bianco , dedicated to the delicious white figs of the region. Another popular event is  Sagra della Castagna , a chestnut festival in various towns that showcases the versatility of local chestnuts. The Sagra della Mozzarella is, well, a mozzarella festival. The region (especially near Paestum) is a renowned producer of buffalo mozzarella .

Don’t miss out on Cilento’s Sagra della Castagna, which is celebrated in the autumn.

Traditional dishes to try

Fusillo di felitto.

Cilento is home to plenty of dishes that showcase the region’s culinary prowess. Among these specialties, fusillo di felitto stands out—a handmade pasta twisted around a knitting needle-like rod and served with tomato sauce and pecorino cheese.

Cavatelli con ragù cilentano

Cavatelli con ragù cilentano is another amazing pasta dish. Cavatelli is a type of fresh pasta that resembles the better known orecchiette . The ragu of this region is made by slowly simmering several different cuts of pork meat in a flavorful tomato sauce.

Cavatelli is a can’t-miss dish when exploring Cilento. Photo credit: Jameson Fink

For vegetarian travelers, ciambotta is an amazing option. It’s a comforting vegetable stew usually made with potatoes, bell peppers, and eggplant (plus whatever else is in season) cooked in fragrant olive oil.

Soppressata di Gioi

The hard-to-find soppressata di Gioi is a traditional salami made from pigs raised in the region. It’s usually produced in the winter months in and around the miniscule hill town of Gioi. No worries if you visit in other seasons, though — trying a cheese and cured meat plate ( tagliere ) of local delicacies is always a good idea in Cilento.

by Chelsea Newman

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Cilento Coast – Free Guide to Cilento Coast

• Post author: angelo
• Post published: February 1, 2021
• Post category: Cilento Coast / Italy

The Cilento Coast will surprise you with its serene, hidden magic. Unlike its neighbor, the Amalfi Coast , this Southern region of seaside Italy rarely gets crowded with tourists. Instead of Amalfi’s glittering villages, you’ll find beautiful, natural beaches and rustic towns along this stretch of the Campania coast .

When you visit the Cilento Coast , you’ll experience the authentic summer vacation that many Italians enjoy each year: eating delicious fresh seafood, exploring gorgeous ocean bluffs, and visiting ancient Greek historical sites .

Where to Stay in Cilento

How to get to cilento coast.

Before we dive in on the best things to do in Cilento we need to get there. There are several ways on how to get to Cilento. By train from Naples to Agropoli or Paestum for more information check trenitalia . By bus with BusItalia Campania with regular buses from Salerno and Paestum to many coastal villages like Santa Maria di Castellabate , Acciaroli, San Marco di Castellabate. By car from Salerno by following the SS 18 Tirrenia Inferiore traveling time about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The Cilento Landscape

As you travel into the beautiful and diverse Cilento region , you’ll notice its many unique landscapes of seaside cliffs, sandy beaches, mountains, and plains. The Sele plain, a flat vista home to Agropoli , is a beautiful place to explore Greek archaeological ruins like Paestum .

Turn South to the coastal city of Castellabate , and you’ll find a hilly landscape with castles dotting the cliffside. Moving into the mainland, you can begin to explore the Cilento’s unique valleys and the historical sites preserved within.

Of course, much of the draw for visiting the Cilento is its beautiful blue waters. Famous bays, like the Cala Bianca and Baia del Buondormire , offer a respite from the crowds with their quiet layout. Finally, the Blue Grotto of Marine di Capo Palinuro will shock you with its jewel-colored waters.

Archaeological Sites

If you haven’t heard of the ancient Greek ruins at Paestum , you’re in for a treat. Back in the sixth century B.C., the city was known as Poseidonia, and you could compare its untouched beauty to Pompeii. You’ll find ancient temples built to honor Greek gods, including Athena , Neptune , and Hera .

The Cilento is also home to a lesser-known archaeological treasure: the ruins of Velia . Back in 500 B.C., the Greeks built this three-mile walled city and named it Hyele. Be sure not to miss the medieval tower that stands at the highest point of the site, and follow it with a stroll through the two museums you’ll find within the walls.

Towns to Visit in the Cilento

Agropoli is the largest town on the Cilento. Here, you can enjoy Italian cuisine with an expansive ocean view. Make sure you wander through the town’s many 16th and 17th-century churches to enjoy their beautiful Byzantine style. Agropoli sits close to several other major coastal hubs. Just fifteen minutes South, you can leave the flat plains and reach the nearest hill town, Castellabate.

Castellabate

If you’re making the hike to Castellabate , get ready to explore the village’s medieval core and quaint architecture. Dine your way through the many cafes that make up the bustling social scene on its castle-topped hills.

This town is a famous shooting location for the film “Benvenuti al Sud” so you may recognize some of the cinematic ocean views as you explore. You can even stay in the historic Palazzo Belmonte castle, whose owners have lived in Italy for over 1000 years.

A more down-tempo option is the fishing village of Acciaroli . Here, you can relax just like Ernest Hemingway famously did on his vacations between writing novels. A quiet seaside town, Acciaroli is known for its high population of elders with remarkably long lifespans.

You’ll encounter many centenarians on your walks through the pleasant streets. Try some of Acciaroli’s fresh-caught dishes, seasoned with locally grown rosemary, to get a taste of the life-extending Mediterranean diet.

Pioppi is an excellent next stop on your journey through the Cilento. It’s another charming seaside village, but the unique local culture will keep you interested throughout your stay. Famous physiologist Ancel Keys visited Pioppi to study the Mediterranean diet , which many researchers believe is why so many Cilento residents live to be over 100 years old.

Take a tour through the two museums at the core of Pioppi’s villa to learn about Keys and his work in the village. Afterward, don’t miss the Museo Vivo del Mare, or “living museum of the sea.” Here, you can see gorgeous architecture along with some of the most beautiful local fish of the Cilento coast.

Finish up your visit at the Pioppi cafe, where you can finish off your Mediterannean meal with a spin on the restaurant’s stationary bikes.

Last but not least, don’t miss Pollica on your tour of the best Cilento towns. This mountain town offers a quaint rest point on your journey down the coast. Here, you’ll enjoy some of the most delicious artisan products produced by Cilento mountain dwellers. Make sure you taste the buffalo mozzarella!

When to Visit The Cilento

Many Italians visit the Cilento Coast during the peak of the summer. While the region’s tourist activity is modest compared to other Italian hotspots, many restaurants and cultural centers still operate on a seasonal schedule. Therefore, if you visit between April and September, you’ll get the most out of your trip.

Of course, Cilento is beautiful all year round, especially if you enjoy milder weather. However, traveling in the off-season means that you’ll find that many restaurants, hotels and other activities are closed, just something to keep in mind.

Cilento Beaches

Here are some of the best beaches in Cilento :

• Cala Bianca – This is a beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and swimmign
• Marina di Camerota – This long sandy beach is perfect for families and offers a range of activities, including water sports and beach volleyball.
• Spiaggia del Buondormire – This quiet and peaceful beach is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Punta degli Infreschi – This rugged beach is popular with hikers and nature lovers. It’s located in a protected nature reserve and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
• Cala d’Arconte – This beach is located near the ancient ruins of Velia and is known for its clear blue waters and golden sand.
• Spiaggia della Marinella – This small beach is perfect for those who want to relax and soak up the sun. It’s surrounded by lush vegetation and offers stunning views of the sea.
• Baia del Buon Dormire – This small bay is surrounded by rugged cliffs and is only accessible by boat. It’s a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
• Spiaggia dell’Arco Naturale – This beach is located near the famous natural arch and offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and sea.

Final Thoughts

The Cilento Coast offers a glimpse into Italy’s past: before millions of tourists descended on more popular coastal areas, like Amalfi, there was a more rustic way of life. When you visit Cilento, you’ll understand why so many Italians visit this region for a breath of fresh air and relaxation.

Plus, if you eat enough of the delicious food that this amazing reagion offer, you may unlock the secret to one of the most extended lifespans on earth. There are few places on the globe where you can get such an intimate, authentic look at the small-town way of life on this magical coastline.

With families in Cilento who can trace their ancestors back 1000 years, it’s no wonder that so much of the region’s history and culture remain preserved. If you’re ready to walk through an ancient Greek temple and finish off the day with an amazing freash organic meal, the Cilento coast is your next destination.

We hope that our simple step by step guide will help you to plan your visit to one of the most underrated parts of Italy, the Cilento Coast . For more free advice on the best places to visit in Italy check our articles here .

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• Discover the Cilento Coast: 10+1 places to visit on the road
• Places and Tours

Discover the magic of the Cilento Coast on the road! Plan your trip and let yourself be captivated by the beauty of Cilento.

Explore the mesmerizing beauty of the Cilento Coast on an unforgettable road trip. Discover the must-see attractions along this enchanting Italian coastline. From the captivating beaches and crystal-clear waters of Palinuro to the picturesque cliffs and hidden coves of Marina di Camerota, the Cilento Coast offers a natural paradise waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in the majestic Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park , where awe-inspiring hiking trails and breathtaking landscapes await.

Don't miss the chance to visit the ancient ruins of Paestum, featuring remarkable Greek temples, and the fascinating archaeological site of Velia, where history comes alive. The Cilento Coast is an adventure seeker's dream , providing a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Experience the timeless allure of the Cilento Coast and create unforgettable memories amidst its stunning beaches, charming fishing villages, and rich history. Embark on an extraordinary journey along the Cilento Coast , where the beauty of nature and the allure of the sea converge.

Cilento Coast: a wonderful award-winning place

Chosen every year as a summer tourist destination by thousands of Italians and rich in unspoiled naturalistic beauties, millenary histories and archaeological sites, the Cilento Coast boasts of the possession of numerous awards relating to the quality of the waters with the highest honor conferred by the FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education) and Legambiente. Entirely viable through a road system that crosses every small seaside tourist destination of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park , the Cilento Coast can certainly be one of the ideas to consider for your next summer.

10. The opening of Cilento coast tour on the road

The first captivating stop along the Cilento Coast is Paestum with its enchanting millennia-old history. You can admire the majestic Greek temples, including the renowned Temple of Hera dedicated to the goddess of marriage and maternity, and the magnificent Temple of Neptune, a symbol of power and grandeur. While strolling among the ancient ruins, you will discover imposing walls and a suggestive amphitheatre that tell centuries-old stories.

9. Discover the most populous village of the Cilento Coast

South of Paestum and the renowned archaeological site, Agropoli is the most populated center of the Cilento Coast. Famous for its folkloric traditions of a religious nature, such as the cult of San Francesco d'Assisi, and for the local carnival (together with the municipality of Castellabate), Agropoli is a tourist destination mainly for the places of interest that overlook the town: not you can pass through the city without visiting the historic center , which through the so-called "scaloni" (great stairs) will lead you to cross the threshold of the ancient village up to the seventeenth-century Angevin-Aragonese Castle , which imposingly observes the horizon of the promontory it overlooks. But Agropoli is not only this: south of the historic center and the port, you can reach the Bay of Trentova, a bathing area bordered at both ends by two rocks immersed in the sea.

If you are in Agropoli an interesting detour if you love mountain villages and art is Orria. Orria is a charming village located somewhat inland. This charming gem is located in an unspoiled natural environment and offers a perfect vacation for those seeking tranquility and authenticity . Its picturesque cobblestone streets, old stone houses and breathtaking views capture the attention of artists and art enthusiasts. It's no wonder that CilentoLab , a creative workshop where you can create unique objects and learn the wonderful art of ceramics while having fun . A magical place immersed in the natural beauty of Cilento, where art and craftsmanship come together in a unique experience.

8. The cinematic paradise corner of the Cilento Coast

A marine hamlet in the municipality of Castellabate , Santa Maria is home to the homonymous Marine Protected Area established in 2009, which also includes the promontory of Licosa and its small island. The varied indented coastline peculiar to the entire Cilento Coast hosts, given its kilometric extension, numerous sandy and golden beaches together with secret places to be discovered continuing south, after having naturally strolled along the seafront that has become, following the increase in tourism at the end of the first decade of 2000, location of film shooting of "Benvenuti al sud", one of the 10 highest-grossing films in Italy of all time. A few steps from the seaside destination, do not miss the medieval village on the hill above.

7. The village of the 5 sails: Relaxation, crystal-clear waters, and natural charm

Acciaroli is a delightful coastal town located along the picturesque Cilento Coast, a seaside fraction of the municipality of Pollica. Known for its natural beauty and authentic charm, Acciaroli is a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and authentic vacation. Its sandy beaches, washed by the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, are ideal for sunbathing and enjoying the sun, awarded with "5 sails" for their excellent water quality . In addition to the wonders of the sea, Acciaroli boasts a charming historic center with its narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses, and characteristic restaurants offering delicious dishes of Cilento cuisine. Acciaroli is also famous for its longevity, having been the subject of scientific studies due to the presence of an exceptionally long-lived elderly population. With its authentic atmosphere and breathtaking panorama, Acciaroli is a destination not to be missed along the Cilento Coast.

6. The world capital of the Mediterranean diet

Continuing south you will arrive at Pioppi , the second largest hamlet of the municipality of Pollica which has acquired national and international notoriety for being the World Capital of the Mediterranean Diet , a nutritional model that tends to enhance typical and common products of the entire Mediterranean basin. Characterized by tourism already in the low season, given the alternation of both free and equipped beaches, Pioppi is a small paradise for lovers of relax and tranquility. Worthy of note is the Vinciprova Castle seat of the "MuSea" or the Living Museum of the Sea , inside which you can admire on the first floor interesting faunal elements residing in the waters of Cilento and continue on the second floor for an interesting tour dedicated to the Diet Mediterranean.

5. Discover the destination with golden sands.

Home to numerous resorts and vacation homes, the seaside village of Casalvelino has experienced significant tourism growth in the last decade following the attainment of the Blue Flag status . This achievement has allowed for the continuous enhancement of the tourism sector, focusing on the maintenance of the promenade, the adjacent main square, and the harbor that borders the expansive coastline with its characteristic golden sands, uninterrupted until the nearby Marina di Ascea. Marina di Casalvelino is a hidden gem along the stunning Cilento Coast. With its sandy beaches , crystal-clear waters, and serene atmosphere, it is the perfect destination for a relaxing and quiete vacation .

4. Discovering the village of the archaeological site of Velia

Home to the ancient philosopher Parmenides, the district of   Marina di Ascea   is the most complete center of the Cilento Coast: with an archaeological site, interesting hiking trails to explore, the Paradox Museum, culinary and folk traditions, and kilometers of beaches. It is one of the gems nestled in the Cilento Coast with its pristine golden sandy beaches, kissed by crystal-clear waters and awarded the Blue Flag. This enchanting destination offers a wide range of activities, including water sports, coastal hikes, and panoramic walks. Immerse yourself in its rich history by visiting the archaeological site of Velia and let yourself be captivated by its traditional restaurants offering delicacies of the Cilento cuisine. Discover the authentic beauty of Ascea Marina, a hidden treasure along the magnificent Cilento Coast.

3. Discovering the destination of the natural caves

At the foot of a promontory and with as many as 32 surveyed surface and submerged cavities , Palinuro is the place par excellence for naturalistic discoveries: natural works of art that over time have become real tourist attractions of international interest. Just think of Grotta d’Argento, Grotta Azzurra, Cala delle Ossa, Grotta dei Monaci and many other secret places to explore independently for the more adventurous or through guided explorations. Linked to the myth of Aeneid, Palinuro still finds space for all kinds of needs, proposing, together with the renowned sea and submarine caves located around Capo Palinuro , a small archaeological museum (Antiquarium), kilometers of free beaches that go as far as Marina di Camerota, secret beaches wedged in natural elements and suggestive excursions on the promontory that forcefully pushes towards the Tyrrhenian Sea, above which the famous lighthouse of the same name rises.

There are an incredible amount of secret places, hidden and immersed in nature, which can only be accessed by boat. Enhancing and allowing tourists to discover what the Cilento Coast hides is the task of local activities, which through opportunities and services offer a 360° holiday. At the Lido "Da Alessandro" , located on the beach of the Port of Palinuro, you will be able to rent boats by contacting Escursioni in Barca da Alessandro : thanks to the boat, motorboat and dinghy rental service offered, you can independently visit the most beautiful places on the Cilento coast between Agropoli up to Sapri.

Palinuro Charter - Lido "Da Alessandro"

2. The South American village of Cilento

Nestled along the coastal strip of Camerota , at the foot of the Cilento hills and rich in the typical Mediterranean bush, Marina di Camerota marries the natural context in which it's located with numerous monuments and places of interest: on the one hand it carefully preserves beaches ranging from fine sand with pebbles that continue for kilometers up to the Marine Protected Area "Costa degli Infresci e della Masseta" , on the other hand it hosts villas and palaces in the historic center and the presence of palaeontological caves in the surroundings of which there're ruins and the famous telegraph towers, present on the entire Cilento coast starting from the cliff of Ascea Marina .

With its authentic atmosphere and breathtaking landscape, this destination offers the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Take a stroll along the promenade, explore the sea caves, and savor the delicious Cilento cuisine in the charming restaurants.

1. The village at the gates of the Gulf of Policastro

Scario is a small hamlet on the outskirts of the Gulf of Policastro . It achieves notoriety as a result of the growth of the entire coastal area when the strategic place in which it's located is noticed: to the north it embraces the "Costa degli Infresci e della Masseta" Marine Protected Area which hosts uncrowded natural beaches (such as the Masseta or Sciabica), karst caves, coves accessible by sea and Saracen watchtowers; while to the south it easily connects to the locality of Policastro Bussentino , very receptive in summer especially for rail and road connections, as well as the quality of the water and the presence of campings. Poor urbanization and the establishment of the Marine Protected Area have allowed Scario to emerge given its remarkable landscape value and a low level of pollution that are difficult to find in other coastal locations.

Plus: the last Campania town of the on-the-road tour

Continuing the journey south and passing through the village of Villammare, Sapri is the final inhabited center of the Cilento Coast in the Campania region. Bordering Basilicata, Sapri is characterized by its main urban settlement on the unique concave coast, making it one of the most fascinating places in terms of natural beauty and beachfront scenery.

Located in the Gulf of Policastro, known for its elegance and natural beauty. With its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque promenade, Sapri invites visitors to immerse themselves in its tranquility and enjoy the gentle rhythm of Mediterranean life. Explore the historic center with its narrow streets and admire the panoramic view. An ideal place to unwind and experience the allure of the Cilento coast.

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Join A Secret Italy

The ultimate guide to the cilento italy: all you need to know.

One of Italy's best-kept secrets

An area of Italy almost unknown outside the country... until now. A place so naturally beautiful, and rich in so many aspects from culture to gastronomy, it's no wonder the Italians decided to keep this hidden gem to themselves.

Where is the Cilento and why should you visit?

Tucked away in Italy's Campania region, the area home to the city of Naples, the incredible Amalfi Coast and pizza of course, Cilento Italy starts a bit south of the town of Battipaglia and continues until the bottom of Campania.

Now, to answer why it's worth visiting the Cilento in a single paragraph would be nigh on impossible due to the area's vast number of attractions, so I'll just mention the main points so you get the idea:

A region of immense natural beauty, from splendid unspoilt beaches along the national-park protected coast to some of Italy's most incredible caves located in the region's hinterland.

Packed with history and jaw-dropping archaeological sites, the Cilento is home to some of the best preserved Greek temples in the whole world, dating back a whopping 2600 years.

Not to mention the people, oh... the people, some of  the friendliest  in all of Italy. Always with a smile on their face and not happy, but overjoyed to welcome you into their world and show you their lives, and towns... and culture.

Which are the best towns to visit?

A tough question to answer, because of the sheer number of incredible towns and villages in the area, but one that needs an answer to be able to effectively plan a trip and decide where to visit.

I've divided the list into two sections, coastal and inland towns, along with a short description as to why they're worth visiting.

Along the coast

First the coastal towns:

• Acciaroli - Where many residents live well into their 100s that makes you feel like you've come home...
• Agropoli - The largest town in the Cilento, a perfect base from which to explore...
• Scario - A traditionally Southern seaside Italian village...
• Pioppi - Home of the Mediterranean diet and the American physiologist Ansel Keys for 40 years...
• Palinuro - A town on a coastline full of beaches and sea caves of incredible beauty...
• Castellabate - Buzzing with life and spectacular views from the hilltop town, where the classic Italian movie "Benvenuti al Sud" was filmed.

And now for the interior:

• Teggiano - A charming town with 13 churches and magnificent views...
• Sanza - Immersed in nature, Sanza is the way Italy used to be, where traditions have been preserved and people are as friendly as can be...
• Padula - Beautifully perched upon a hill, Padula is famous for the Certosa di San Lorenzo, the second largest charterhouse in Italy... as well as for being the birthplace of the famous organized crime fighting NYPD officer Joseph Petrosino.
• Roccagloriosa - A charismatic medieval village in the hills of Cilento, where Christina's glorious B&B Zizzania e il Mandarino awaits you.

Don't forget about the Archaeological sites ...

With some of the best-preserved Greek temples on Earth, the archaeological site of Paestum is sure to impress, and is the one of the greatest attractions of the Cilento.

Being there in person, gazing up at the 2600-year-old stonework, will take your breath away - no doubt about it. This is simply a must visit. Any stay in the Cilento is not complete without having seen the temples of Paestum.

Cilento's other archaeological site, that's a bit under the radar, is Velia. An enormous site, the excavations reveal the remains of the ancient Greek city of Elea. The ruins are located near the modern village of Velia, which took it's name from the site. There are two small museums you can visit, as well as a little theater - all are worth seeing.

Once a part of a castle, the medieval tower built on top a Greek church, is the hallmark of the site. Get to the top and you'll be rewarded with stunning views over the remains and the coast.

And the exquisite coastline!

You may not have expected it, but the Cilento is home to some of Italy's most spectacular beaches, many of which are secluded, remaining half-empty for most of the summer. This is perfect for those who love exploring and taking in the coastal beauty in peace. The "Spiaggia del Buon Dormire", pictured below, is one of the many spectacular, unspoiled beaches of the Cilento.

There are 13, yes you read that right, 13 blue-flag beaches along Cilento's coastline. The Cilento has more blue-flag beaches than anywhere else in Campania. Simply incredible.

Not only beaches, but also caves ... yes, sea caves. Just as jaw-droppingly amazing as the Blue Grotto on the isle of Capri, but not nearly as crowded, the "Grotta Azzurra" of Palinuro is an absolute must-see. Take a look at the images below and you'll know what I mean:

Where to stay - Itinerary Ideas:

If you are planning a fairly long getaway of around 7 to 10 days, I recommend basing yourself along the coast, preferably a town like Ascea, which is centrally located along the Cilento's coast making it suitable and convenient for day-trips to the best towns and attractions, both inland and coastal.

We stayed at the magnificent Olimpia Cilento Resort in Ascea, and we definitely weren't disappointed. Located along the pristine coastline, the Olimpia Resort offers incredible service, food and above all heartwarming hospitality akin to that of a typical Southern Italian family.

For a shorter stay, you could always base yourself further up the coast in Castellabate, and visit Paestum, Agropoli, Pioppi and Acciaroli relatively easily in about 3 to 5 days. The Palazzo Gentilcore , located in the heart of Castellabate's old town, is set in an old, characteristic 17th-century building. It's a small, charismatic boutique hotel that caters to few guests, but those of you that book early and secure your rooms can expect an incredible experience.

Another good option is the  Zizzania e il Mandarino , a bed and breakfast in the hamlet of Roccagloriosa. This tiny settlement is located in an enviable position right in the heart of the Cilento National Park - between the mountain of Monte Bulgheria, the turquoise sea and a valley extending as far as the eye can see.

Read more about Zizzania and Roccagloriosa.

South of Ascea, close to where Campania borders with Basilicata, you can base yourself in the traditional seaside village of Scario, from where the towns of Sapri and Maratea (just over the border in Basilicata) make for perfect day-trips, and the untouched beaches of Marina di Camerota are only a stone's throw away.

Best tours to do in the Cilento:

There are many tours available in the area, offering a wide variety of memorable experiences. Depending on your interests vacation plans, you can choose the tour that's right for you.

Passionate about Italian cuisine? (Who isn't! :)

Then a mozzarella di buffala farm tour is for you.

Want to discover and learn everything there is to know about the Greek temples of Paestum?

A local guided tour is just what you need.

Maybe it's the exquisite coastline you'd like to discover?

A boat trip to the coast's best hidden gems is sure to be an incredible experience.

When should you visit?

The perfect time to visit, for both the best weather and the cheapest prices, is shoulder season, around May to June just before the height of summer, and then again in September - October, once the tourist season is coming to an end.

You'll avoid the scorching summer temps, but still get nice warm weather along with more affordable accommodation options. 

How to get to Cilento Italy:

The two main ways to get here are either by car or by train.

To get to Agropoli (largest town in Cilento) from Naples by car, simply take the A3. It's about a 66 mile drive and takes around 2 hours. From Rome it takes considerably longer, about 3 hours and 40 minutes. We always use Discover Cars for our car hire in Italy. They have the best rates available. Check them out here.

Trains depart about every 30 minutes from Naples central train station and will get you to Agropoli in about 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Rome the high-speed train will get you there in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, and without having to change trains, which is a plus.

Commonly asked questions about the Cilento:

1: What is Cilento famous for?

The Cilento has a lot of things going for it, but above all the region is famous for its incredibly healthy and tasty cuisine, being the home of the Mediterranean Diet. Discover more about this diet here.

2: Where is Cilento in Italy?

The Cilento is in the region of Campania, about 50 miles/80 km south of the Amalfi Coast.

3: Is Agropoli worth visiting?

Most certainly, yes. Agropoli is the biggest town in the Cilento and is the epitome of Southern Italian life. Bustling streets, espresso-scented mornings, lively evenings and so much more...

4: Why should I visit the Cilento?

From the friendly people and traditional way of live, to the incredible natural beauty and historical attractions, Cilento has a lot to offer.

5: Does the Cilento have beautiful beaches?

Without a doubt, the Cilento has many stunning, and secluded beaches, some of which rival the most beautiful in the whole of Italy. Not only that, but the Cilento area has more blue-flag beaches than anywhere else in Campania, a whopping 13 beaches from a coastline less than 125 miles long.

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Travel Guide To Cilento Coast

From Naples to Amalfi, Italy's western resorts buzz with tourists and expensive hotels. But venture a little further south, to the Cilento, and you discover the rocky coves, wild flowers and superlative seafood restaurants that the Italians have long kept to themselves. The Cilento is largely uncharted territory for international tourism, but the pleasures of the area are to be found in the thrill of discovering tiny villages and the 7th-century Greek temples of Paestum. This stretch of coast offers visitors a genuine welcome that has been lost in the tourist shops of the Bay of Naples, as well as having a cluster of elegant hotels.

Where to stay in Cilento Coast

CASTELLABATE AND AROUND Santa Maria di Castellabate is a small-scale beach resort with a few charming old buildings, many more new ones and plenty of sharp bar flies in fake Gucci shades. LA GIACARANDA San Marco di Castellabate, Contrada Cenito (00 39 0974 966 130; minimum stay three nights). A pretty white villa set amid a riot of lemon, fig, eucalyptus and mimosa trees. The all-female staff is headed by Luisa Cavallieri and her English-speaking niece, Elisa, who organises excursions, cookery courses, foreign newspapers and just about anything else guests may want. Home-made breakfasts merge into lunch, lunch into aperitivo, aperitivo into a sumptuous dinner prepared by Elisa and Luisa, whose cucina di territorio was refined by a brief stint with Alain Ducasse. £ LA MOLA Via Adolfo Cilento 2, Old Castellabate (00 39 0974 967 053; fax: 967 714; www.lamola-it.com ; email: [email protected] ). This is a private house on the edge of the medieval town of Old Castellabate which has been turned into a good-value hotel with just five bedrooms. Whitewashed rooms with iron bedsteads look onto a flower-decked terrace with panoramic views where meals are served. In summer it's always a few degrees cooler up here and the view really is spectacular. £ PALAZZO BELMONTE (00 39 0974 960 211; fax: 961 150; www.palazzobelmonte.it ; email: [email protected] ; all bookings require a minimum two-night stay). Not the sort of place where you expect to find a stately home with extensive grounds, but this is just that, perching above its own private section of beach. Part of the complex, built in the 17th-century as a hunting lodge, is occupied by the current Principe di Belmonte. The palazzo's aristocratic charm draws a mainly British clientele. The main palazzo houses guest rooms ranging from the elegant to the rustic; two new garden villas are divided into suites. A walk through hibiscus, lemon trees and dwarf palms leads to the swimming pool and restaurant terrace. ££ PALINURO AND AROUND The coast between Castellabate and Marina di Camerota offers thin pickings for the more demanding traveller. Acciaroli and Pisciotta are small-scale family resorts with facilities to match; Palinuro is a larger version of the same. The following are among the best: THE KING'S RESIDENCE HOTEL Baia del Buondormire (00 39 0974 931 324; fax: 931 418; www.hotelkings.it ; minimum stay three nights). This hotel has spectacular views and sits above a rocky cove on the unspoiled southern side of the Palinuro headland. It has the rather impersonal feel of a high-class package hotel (complete with 1970s leather armchairs and a white grand piano), but the swimming pool, private beach and beauty centre are three good reasons to stay here. £ SANT' AGATA Contrada Sant' Agata nord (00 39 0974 931 716; www.agriturismosantagata.it ). Perched above Palinuro, amid olive groves, this small farmhouse property, or agriturismo, is run by an affable Anglo-Italian couple. Offering pretty sea views and unremarkable but filling country food, this is not a bad place to stay. £ MARATEA AND AROUND LA LOCANDA DELLE DONNE MONACHE Via Carlo Mazzei 4 (00 39 0973 876139; www.mondomaratea.it ; email: [email protected] ). Housed in a tastefully restored 18th-century convent up in the medieval village. The decor pushes the nunnish parallels, with scraped and sponged pastel walls and post-medieval details; but the delightful swimming pool and restaurant terrace are anything but convent-like. Both this and the Santavenere hotel are under the ownership of Mondo Maratea. ££ THE SANTAVENERE HOTEL (00 39 0973 876 910; fax: 877 654; www.mondomaratea.it ; email: [email protected] ). Nestling in the pine and olive groves above the bay of Fiumicello, The Santavenere is a light and plant-filled retreat; there are bars both by the swimming pool and on the rocky private beach. ££ THE VILLA CHETA ELITE Via Timone 46 (00 39 0973 878 134; fax: 878 135; www.villacheta.it ; email: [email protected] ). For charm on a budget, backtrack along the cliff road to the tiny bay of Acquafredda to the Villa Cheta Elite, which occupies a Liberty-style (Italian Art Nouveau) villa in pleasant, bougainvillea-shaded gardens just above the coast road. For once, the half-board requirement is not an imposition: the restaurant, which features gourmet dishes such as swordfish and chickpea soup, is good enough to pull in outsiders. ££ NB Most hotels do not open until Easter and are closed again by mid-October.

Where to eat out in Cilento Coast

TAVERNA DEL PESCATORE

Via Lamia, Santa Maria di Castellabate (00 39 0974 968 293; closed Monday). Serves excellent, creative seafood; try the spaghetti ai ricci di mare a crudo (spaghetti with raw sea urchins). The inexpensive wine list is strong on local producers such as Luigi Maffini. The only drawback is the solo service: owner-waiter Francesco Romano gets run off his feet at peak times.

TAVERNA ROVITA

Via Rovita 13 (00 39 0973 876 588; closed Tuesdays in low season). In the old town of Maratea, this is a long-established, characterful restaurant serving Lucanian specialities (stuffed peppers, game birds, local salami). Finish in style with a cassata Lucana , a lighter, spongier version of the Sicilian ricotta and marzipan pudding.

U' ZIFARO

Via Lungomare 43, Scario (00 39 0974 986 397). One of the best local seafood restaurants along this or indeed any other stretch of coast. Housed in a former boathouse on the esplanade, it offers a range of cheap, excellent dishes such as spaghetti di mare alla putanesca (with seafood, tomatoes and capers), excellent grilled-fish secondi and a house white - a surprisingly good local Chardonnay.

ZA' MARIUCCIA

Via Grotte 2 (00 39 0973 876 163; open for dinner only but daily in high season; otherwise Fri to Sat; closed Oct to Easter). Down in the port of Marina di Maratea, Za' Mariuccia offers reliable, reasonably priced seafood cooking.

In the old town of Maratea, there are no lack of opportunities to buy wine, oil and tiny figures made out of pebbles; if you prefer to join the locals in a cup of strong espresso or an evening aperitivo , Caffè Dolcezze in piazza Buraglia, a beautiful retro bar, is the best place to do so.

What to see in Cilento Coast

Paestum is the site of the only well-preserved Greek temples north of Sicily and marks the southern edge of the fertile plain of Salerno and the southern border of the standard tourist map of mainland Italy. Originally named Poseidonia, the city was founded in the 7th century BC by the Sybarites on the all-important trade route up the west coast. The Romans took over in 273 BC and latinised the name to Paestum. Famous for its flowers, it prospered until the end of the Roman era. Today, the forests have been cleared, and the majestic ruins of the city stand in the open on the green plain.

Much of the 5km circuit of walls still stands, along with some of the towers and gates. The aesthetic may not be what you expect - strong, squat dimensions - but this is the classic austerity of Greek architecture at its best and the temples definitely merit a visit. Site open Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to one hour before sunset; closed first and third Monday of every month for restoration work. Museum open Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 2pm.

First port of call in the Gulf of Policastro is the pretty fishing village of Scario. A small, stylish hotel here would do a roaring trade; in the meantime, you'll have to make do with a meal at U' Zifaro (see Where to Eat). After lunch, ignore anonymous, over-developed Sapri and head straight for the quietly chi-chi resort of Maratea.

So far discovered mainly by Italian tourists, Maratea is a tiny cluster of houses with one main strolling street and more churches than bars. The rocky coast below it, pitted with grey-sand beaches, is where most of the hotels cluster. If you can, stay at the Locanda delle Donne Monache, a converted early-18th-century nunnery in the old town (see Where to Stay).

Paul Richardson

CNT Editors

Arati Menon

Olivia Morelli

It's worth stopping off at Velia to get a boat along the coast to Cala degli Infeschi, an idyllic pirates' cove of a beach, with water a shade of blue-green that you thought existed only on celluloid. The beach can also be reached on foot, but you'll need to ask a local for directions as the first part of the journey is devoid of signs.

Both Ascea Marina and the neighbouring locality of Casalvelino have pretty beaches, but the best ones of all can be found in the rugged terrain around Palinuro. This town, which has a small museum of archaeological finds, takes its name from Aeneas' pilot Palinurus, who is supposedly buried here. Beyond Palinuro, the sandy coast curves back north into the Gulf of Policastro, where there are two more pleasant beach villages, Scario (see above) and Sapri, which mark the southern boundary of Campania.

How to get to Cilento Coast

The nearest airport is Naples International Airport (00 39 81 789 6111; www.gesac.it ).

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

bmi (0870 6070 555; www.flybmi.com ) – runs summer service only

British Airways (0870 850 9850; ( www.ba.com )

easyJet (0870 600 0000; www.easyjet.com )

BY CAR AND TRAIN

Europcar (0870 607 5000; www.europcar.co.uk ) has an office at Naples airport. Access to the Cilento is via the A3 Salerno-Reggio Calabria motorway. For Castellabate and Palinuro, take the Battipaglia exit and follow signs to Agropoli. For Maratea, Sapri and Scario, take the Lagonegro exit. The train from Naples via Salerno offers an excellent alternative: there are stations at Agropoli (for Castellabate), Pisciotta/Palinuro, Sapri and Maratea.

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October 5, 2022

The Cilento, Italy's coastal gem south of Rome

Danielle Oteri - writer, art historian, leader of custom itineraries and group tours - is a native New Yorker but grew up with a strong Italian heritage. Danielle was captivated by the many stories her grandma shared with her about her native Cilento and hometown, Capaccio Paestum , where she grew up. When Danielle finally visited the Cilento she was enchanted by it and in many ways felt that she was returning home. Danielle shared her Cilento stories with me and some of her favorite parts of it.

If you're looking for a gorgeous almost tourist-free coastal gem to visit south of Rome and Naples then the Cilento is for you!

Where is the Cilento?

Here's how Eleonora Baldwin describes the Cilento in her recent Gambero Rosso article: " Cilento is a subregion of Campania located between Paestum and Sapri, on the border with Basilicata. A huge territory, where nature is truly wild, where the population is less than a hundred thousand, and in which rural traditions and a slow, very slow pace of everyday life are carefully preserved. Nature and sea-loving Italy travellers who don’t mind the total absence of designer fashion and yacht slips, will find themselves in a part of southern Italy that has retained its authentic charm through a low profile. Don’t get us wrong, Cilento is packed with historical and archeological destinations, wildly untamed nature and gorgeous beaches. " This article is full of great Cilento information so give it a read when you're planning your Cilento trip. The spectacular Cilento area of Italy is easily accessible if you drive south from Rome towards Naples and just slightly beyond the Amalfi coast. There's no getting away from the fact that the Amalfi Coast is spectacularly beautiful but the Cilento is equally so but without mass tourism. Wandering Italy has lots of useful information about Cilento and points out: " Over 100km of fine beaches, many of them flying the coveted blue flag indicating exceptionally clean water, are ready to embrace your work-suffering body from April to October. "

The Cilento is full of spectacular agricultural sites, most notably the 2800 year-old temples in Paestum .

Other special towns to visit in the Cilento are Castellabate, Acciaroli and the port, Agropoli, and Pioppi where Ancel Keys lived for 28 years. Keys is best known for his study of centenarians in Cilento, and the Mediterranean Diet based on the food and lifestyle of the Cilento people. Keys also live to be 100.

How do you get to the Cilento?

The best way to reach the Cilento is undoubtedly by car. If you fly into Rome you can get a car right at the airport and drive down along the coast. Alternatively take a train from Rome to Salerno and then just outside the station you can pick up a rental car. From there you're about a 30 minute drive from Paestum, the not-to-be-missed Cilento town and temple. Alternatively hire a private driver. In the Cilento area private drivers are plentiful and quite affordable. And of course if you don't feel like exploring the Cilento area on your own you can join one of Danielle Oteri's twice annual tours of the area . Her tours are based at her family property, Borgo la Pietraia , with Cilento day trips from here. Here are all the details you need to know on how to get to the Cilento by car, train, bus, boat and private driver.

How did the Cilento get its name?

" The name Cilento derives from the Latin term "Cis Alentum", meaning on the other side of the Alento, a river that flows entirely through Campania region. It comprises no less than 80 municipalities and 8 mountain communities. "

What are the typical foods of the Cilento?

There's no doubt that the signature Cilento food is buffalo mozzarella cheese. If you've never tasted buffalo milk gelato put it on your bucket list of foods to try in Cilento. Tenuta Vannulo is the best known buffalo mozzarella cheese producer, a certified organic farm with over 600 buffaloes. They offer great tours, tastings, and a shop - also online.

Another tasty Cilento cheese is caciocavallo ; sometimes it's hung over a grill while meat is grilling and the caciocavallo drizzles on top.

The Cilento has fabulous seafood including tender, succulent polipo.

Do you have a comment or something you'd like to share with me? Scroll down to the very, very end of this page to reach the Please Leave Your Comment section. I'd love to have your feedback and questions!

There are over a dozen Slow Food Cilento foods you have to try and a great article, Campania: a journey through the flavors, colors and scents of Cilento , details these foods: " The Menaica Anchovies , typical of Marina di Pisciotta and Pollica, are the first Slow Food product in Campania. The name Menaica comes from the type of fishing that respects the environment. Freshly caught or seasoned in salt, they are a real treat. The White Artichoke of Pertosa is typical of the hilly town of Vallo di Diano -also famous for the Caves of Pertosa- and in the surrounding areas including the towns of Auletta, Caggiano Pertosa, and Salvitelle. Among the products most closely linked to Cilento, we find Goat Cacioricotta cheese . It is the product of the pasture of an autochthonous species, called Cilentana goat or Cilento goat, and it is made through two different processing techniques, that of cacio (cheese) and that of ricotta cheese, hence the name. The cheese, in its fresh, semi-seasoned, or seasoned version, is produced in the whole territory of Cilento. Cicerale Chickpea is a legume coming from western Asia, however, it has had good luck in the municipality of Cicerale. These are organic chickpeas, cultivated without the use of additives or chemicals and, above all, without any kind of irrigation. Casalbuono Beans , whose ancient origins date back to the fourteenth century AD, represent another typical product and a delicacy of Cilento. In the area of cultivation, precisely Casalbuono, there are seven varieties of beans. Controne Beans , cultivated in the municipality of Controne, come from very fertile soils rich in carbonates and grow thanks to the numerous aquifers on the massif of the Alburni mountains. The Fagiolo della Regina di Gorga , another kind of beans with their properties and unmistakable sweet taste. It is a very ancient variety of white climbing bean cultivated in Gorga, a hamlet of the municipality of Stio. In chronological order, it is the latest arrival among the Slow Food products of Cilento. The Fico monnato of Prignano Cilento is another product that has its origins in the ancient peasant tradition. The term "monnato", which is peeled, derives from the fact that the Fico Bianco del Cilento (White Fig of Cilento) is peeled and dried. It is produced in Prignano Cilento, Ogliastro, Agropoli and Torchiara. The Fusillo di Felitto is a type of pasta, a sort of hollow cylinder of pasta that can be tasted during the famous Fusillo Festival which takes place in the town of Felitto in the second decade of August. Made with eggs, flour, salt, water, olive oil, it differs from the traditional fusillo from Cilento both for the type of processing and for the length of the pasta (about 20 cm). The Maracuoccio di Lentiscosa or Maracuoccjo , produced in Lentiscosa in the municipality of Camerota, is a small legume similar to a pea characterized by its squared shape and by a bitterish aftertaste. Used to cook the traditional local dish called maracucciata, it is a legume having an ancient tradition too. The Mozzarella in Mortella is a fresh cheese originating from mount Gelbison and Novi Velia. Actually, it is not a real mozzarella but a fresh caciocavallo cheese, wrapped in myrtle leaves, mortella in Cilento dialect. A plant used since ancient times, it preserves freshness and gives the cheese special and unmistakable aromatic notes. Produced throughout the Cilento area. The Olive ammaccate del Cilento are known as a Slow Food product with the name of Oliva salella ammaccata del Cilento. They are "ammaccate, that is bruised, crushed one by one with a sea stone, pitted and immersed in water. After passed into a brine solution, they are used for preserved products in oil. They are produced all over Cilento. The Salsiccia e soppressata del Vallo di Diano (sausage and soppressata, a typical kind of dry salami), produced for hundreds of years, is famous for its deliciousness and the excellent quality of the meat used to make this sausage. It is produced in the whole Vallo di Diano. The Soppressata di Gioi is the only salami from Campania to be "lardellato" (larded), that is, with a strip of lard inside. This "strand" of lard is as long as the whole soppressata: indescribable goodness. Produced in Gioi, Cardile, Salento, Stio, Gorga, Orria and Piano Vetrale. "

More about some of the food & culture of southern Italy and Cilento

Ferretti pasta , a southern Italian eggless pasta Basilicata, Italy's undiscovered region , shares coastline with the Cilento Caciocavallo cheese is also produced in the tiny Molise region All about buffalo mozzarella cheese

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CILENTO EXPERIENCE

9 days, 8 nights

Clio Travel guided tours

A seaside stay that is a true experience of discovery of a magical land, Cilento!!! 9 days at Olimpia Cilento Resort 4**** in Marina di Ascea with all the comforts of an Italian village interspersing relaxation with excursions included in the package.

The Olimpia Cilento Resort, a modern tourist village of 4-star category, is located in Marina d’Ascea directly on the wide sandy beach and the crystal-clear sea of the Cilento Coast, consisting of 230 rooms equipped with all comforts located on a private park of 75 thousand square meters in the heart of the Cilento National Park, a land rich in history and extraordinary natural beauty.

To fully satisfy your desire for relaxation, at Olimpia Cilento Resort you will also find at your disposal two splendid freshwater swimming pools, one of which is semi-Olympic with a whirlpool, another oval with a thinning bottom in a richly vegetated area close to the beach. The wonderful Idropool Terrace: a furnished solarium with a heated bio-design pool and whirlpool, where you can enjoy adults-only relaxation and a 360-degree panorama. Still a baby pool designed for children, nestled in the lush park that has dozens of olive trees, palms, pines, eucalyptus, orange, fig, lemon and vegetation typical of this part of Campania.

Full board treatment with buffet service and drinks included (mineral water and house wine) constantly offers typical products of the Mediterranean tradition, prepared with first-rate ingredients that enhance their freshness and authenticity. The buffet features three first and three second courses, a wide selection of hot and cold side dishes, lots of seasonal fruit as well as the best desserts from the Cilento and Mediterranean tradition served at lunch and dinner. Our guests can also enjoy traditional Neapolitan pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven for lunch and dinner.

The Resort offers the following sports facilities: 1 Padel court; 2 multi-purpose courts, one of which is artificial turf, for Five-a-side football, Tennis, Volleyball and Basketball; 1 Bocce court; Table soccer table; 1 Canoe corner; Ping Pong table; Fitness Area: Gymnasium equipped with Technogym equipment; Beach Activities Area (Beach Volleyball and Beach Tennis); Playground equipped for children and Ludoland, an area designed for the fun of the little ones where among playground, slides and many other games they can socialize, learn and grow without ever stopping having fun

• Minimum of 25 participants
• 9-day beach stay with 4 half-day excursions + 1 full-day excursion
• € 600.00 single supplement for entire period

Day 1 - Saturday, June 1, 2024

Day 2 - sunday, june 2, 2024, day 3 - monday, june 3, 2024, day 4 - tuesday, june 4, 2024, day 5 - wednesday, june 5, 2024, day 6 - thursday, june 6, 2024, day 7 - friday, june 7, 2024, day 8 - saturday, june 8, 2024, day 9 - sunday, june 9, 2024, the fee includes / the fee does not include.

• Round trip train in 2nd class, station/hotel/station transfer
• 8 nights at Olimpia Cilento Resort 4**** full board with water and wine with meals
• Guided tour of Salerno, Pontecagnano, Palinuro, Castellabate with White Fig Tasting, Certosa di Padula with entrances to Pertosa Caves Auletta, Paestum
• Health and cancellation insurance
• Clio Travel Companion
• Resort fees
• Anything not specifically mentioned in "the fee includes"

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Roots Travels: Cilento, the silent soul of Campania

By giorgia montella | March 12, 2024

One of the regions of Italy from which many emigrants left in search of a better life is Campania , especially its southern rural areas, characterized by small villages that have greatly diminished in size but are still rich in culture, charm, and stories.

One such mysterious and bucolic place is called Cilento : let’s find out more about it!

If we think of Campania, our thoughts quickly go to Capri, Sorrento, or Positano; their sheer beauty is dazzling and first thought of on one’s itinerary. Yet, if we go further south across the gulf, we’ll find Cilento, a beauty beyond beauty, as unexpected as it is fascinating. Cilento stretches from the southern province of Salerno to the border with Basilicata/Lucania. From the Tyrrhenian coast to the hinterland, we find rivers and valleys, rugged peaks like the Cervati, and rolling hills on the coast, all the way down to the caves of Pertosa and Castelcivita .

Sky, sea, land.

The National Park of Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Monti Alburni is the second national park in prominence in Italy, for its expanse and for the extraordinary richness of biodiversity and native species. The park is wonderfully represented by its symbols: the otter, which here finds the right conditions for life; or the primula Palinuri, a flower coloring the cliffs overlooking the sea in delicate yellow. Its name acknowledges its proliferation in the area of Palinuro, one of the southernmost pearls of Cilento.

The Diano Valley is a fertile plateau extending about 450 meters above sea level, right at the border with Basilicata. The Monti Alburni is an imposing massif located further north, near Salerno, consisting of limestone and dolomite rocks, which give the landscape an even more striking appearance. The word “Alburni” derives from alburno, white, which indicates the light color of the rock, due to its geological nature. 

The etymology of the word Cilento comes from the Latin Cis Alentum , a town on “this” (“cis”) side of the Alento River, or perhaps from the Greek Cir Alintos , a town overlooking the Alento River. History tells us that the area saw the presence of both the Greeks and the Romans; in particular, the ancient Greeks settled on the coast and founded Poseidonia (today known as Paestum ) and Elea (today known as Velia ), both part of Magna Graecia.

 For the inhabitants of the area, however, Cilento simply means lento (slow), as in living life without hurry. This is because time seems to have no great importance here, it flows at a different speed. Indeed, time is better understood by exploring sleepy villages and enjoying quiet landscapes, or by observing those who have always lived here; it can be enjoyed in all those corners where you can hear the wind, and nature still reigns supreme in all its wild beauty. Perhaps this is the reason why Cilento has joined UNESCO’s MAB (man and biosphere) world network , which includes protected areas where man, with his activities, maintains a balance with nature. In the end, isn’t “harmony between man and nature” the ultimate goal of creation? 

But culture is important, too. To better understand the cultural, social, and human reality of Cilento one must consider that, in past centuries, the coast was inhabited by the Greeks but the rugged inland areas were dominated by the Lucanians, a belligerent Italic race with a profoundly different cultural heritage. The contrast between inland areas and the coast is still tangible when exploring Cilento far and wide, and discovering its priceless artistic and historical treasures, its ancient towns, its churches and monasteries, including the famous Certosa di Padula . At the same time, one cannot fail to appreciate the “rural” soul of the place, with its deeply rooted peasant tradition: one cannot ignore that this was once a land of emigrants. Walking through some of its villages — sometimes dilapidated, often orphaned of most of their inhabitants — one realizes that the faces of those still here tell a story. 

And so everything in Cilento is surprising, from its medieval frescoed cloisters that embellish tiny hamlets lost in the middle of nowhere, to the animal troughs from the last century that prop up the streets and squares; from the ghost villages, sometimes guarded by a single, fearless inhabitant, to the numerous ultra-centenarians, living proof of how healthy the Mediterranean diet, which was first studied here, is. 

That’s why I’ve always found awe in the eyes of the visitors whom, over the years, I have accompanied on this adventure. I, not being from Cilento, feel the same admiration for its dignified beauty, a beauty that moves the soul. And if it is true that Cilento was a land of emigrants, it means that some of its heart and its memories can be found in the places where its people ventured (like the Americas), with pain and hope, seeking a better life. 

Did they eventually find it? Who knows, but that’s a story for another time. 

You can discover more about Giorgia Montella and her Connect to Your Campania Roots service on Facebook . 

Una delle regioni d’Italia da cui partono molti emigranti in cerca di una vita migliore è la Campania, in particolare le sue aree rurali del sud, caratterizzate da piccoli borghi molto calati nelle dimensioni ma ancora ricchi di cultura, fascino e storie.

Uno di questi luoghi misteriosi e bucolici si chiama Cilento : scopriamone di più!

Se pensiamo alla Campania il pensiero corre subito a Capri, Sorrento o Positano; la loro pura bellezza è abbagliante e viene in mente subito in un itinerario. Eppure, se ci spostiamo più a sud, oltrepassando il golfo, troviamo il Cilento, una bellezza oltre la bellezza, tanto inaspettata quanto affascinante. Il Cilento si estende dalla provincia meridionale di Salerno fino al confine con la Basilicata/Lucania. Dalla costa tirrenica all’entroterra troviamo fiumi e valli, cime aspre come il Cervati e dolci colline sulla costa, fino alle grotte di Pertosa e Castelcivita .

Cielo, mare, terra.

Il Parco Nazionale del Cilento, Vallo di Diano e Monti Alburni è il secondo parco nazionale per importanza in Italia per la sua estensione e la straordinaria ricchezza di biodiversità e di specie autoctone. Il parco è meravigliosamente rappresentato dai suoi simboli: la lontra, che qui trova le giuste condizioni per la vita; oppure la primula Palinuri, un fiore che colora di un giallo delicato le scogliere a picco sul mare. Il suo nome ne riconosce la proliferazione nella zona di Palinuro, una delle perle più meridionali del Cilento.

Il Vallo di Diano è un fertile altopiano che si estende a circa 450 metri sul livello del mare, proprio al confine con la Basilicata. I Monti Alburni sono un imponente massiccio situato più a nord, nei pressi di Salerno, costituito da rocce calcaree e dolomitiche, che conferiscono al paesaggio un aspetto ancora più suggestivo. La parola “Alburni” deriva da alburno, bianco, che indica il colore chiaro della roccia, dovuto alla sua natura geologica.

L’etimologia della parola Cilento deriva dal latino Cis Alentum , paese su “questa” (“cis”) sponda del fiume Alento, o forse dal greco Cir Alintos , paese affacciato sul fiume Alento. La storia racconta che la zona vide la presenza sia dei Greci che dei Romani; in particolare, gli antichi Greci si stabilirono sulla costa e fondarono Poseidonia (oggi conosciuta come Paestum ) ed Elea (oggi conosciuta come Velia ), entrambe parte della Magna Grecia.

Per gli abitanti della zona, invece, Cilento significa semplicemente lento , come il vivere la vita senza fretta. Questo perché qui il tempo sembra non avere molta importanza, scorre a una velocità diversa. Il tempo, infatti, si comprende meglio esplorando paesini sonnolenti e godendo di paesaggi silenziosi, o osservando chi qui vive da sempre; lo si può gustare in tutti quegli angoli dove si sente il vento, e la natura regna ancora incontrastata in tutta la sua selvaggia bellezza. Forse è questo il motivo per cui il Cilento è entrato a far parte della rete mondiale MAB (uomo e biosfera) dell’UNESCO , che comprende aree protette dove l’uomo, con le sue attività, mantiene un equilibrio con la natura. In fondo, non è forse “l’armonia tra uomo e natura” lo scopo ultimo della creazione?

Ma anche la cultura è importante. Per comprendere meglio la realtà culturale, sociale e umana del Cilento bisogna considerare che, nei secoli passati, la costa era abitata dai Greci ma le aspre zone interne erano dominate dai Lucani, una belligerante razza italica con un patrimonio culturale profondamente diverso. Il contrasto tra le zone interne e la costa è ancora tangibile esplorando il Cilento in lungo e in largo, scoprendo i suoi inestimabili tesori storico-artistici, i suoi borghi antichi, le sue chiese e monasteri, tra cui la famosa Certosa di Padula . Allo stesso tempo, non si può non apprezzare l’anima “rurale” del luogo, con la sua radicata tradizione contadina: non si può ignorare che questa un tempo era terra di emigranti. Passeggiando per alcuni dei suoi villaggi – a volte fatiscenti, spesso orfani della maggior parte degli abitanti – ci si rende conto che i volti di chi è ancora qui raccontano una storia.

E allora nel Cilento tutto sorprende, dai chiostri medievali affrescati che impreziosiscono piccoli borghi sperduti nel nulla, agli abbeveratoi del secolo scorso che puntellano strade e piazze; dai villaggi fantasma, a volte custoditi da un unico, impavido abitante, ai numerosi ultracentenari, prova vivente di quanto sia salutare la dieta mediterranea, che qui venne studiata per la prima volta.

Per questo ho sempre trovato stupore negli occhi dei visitatori che, negli anni, ho accompagnato in questa avventura. Io, non essendo del Cilento, provo la stessa ammirazione per la sua dignitosa bellezza, una bellezza che commuove l’anima. E se è vero che il Cilento è stata una terra di emigranti, significa che un po’ del suo cuore e della sua memoria si ritrovano nei luoghi in cui la sua gente si è avventurata (come le Americhe), con dolore e speranza, alla ricerca di una vita migliore. Alla fine l’avranno trovata? Chissà, ma questa è un’altra storia.

Puoi scoprire di più su Giorgia Montella e il suo servizio Connect to Your Campania Roots su Facebook . 

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Dog Company Announces New Air Travel Experience Designed Specifically for Canines: They 'Will Be the VIPs'

Routes will currently serve the New York City metro area with flights to Los Angeles and London

Man's best friend will soon be able to get the VIP treatment when taking to the skies!

Earlier this week, BARK , a dog-focused company that provides products, services and content for canines, launched BARK Air , the "world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second," according to a press release obtained by PEOPLE.

Currently, routes will serve the New York City metro area through Westchester County Airport (HPN) with flights to the Los Angeles area via Van Nuys (VNY) and London, by Stansted Airport (STN).

According to the release, an Argus Platinum-rated charter company is "responsible for all aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance-related matters." BARK, meanwhile, the release said, is "focused on creating and delivering a world-class air travel experience for dogs and their people."

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After booking a trip online, users will be contacted by a BARK Air concierge, who will gather information about each dog and their human’s travel plans.

On the day of travel, pets and their human counterparts will arrive at the airport 45 to 60 minutes before takeoff, when the dogs will mingle with other canine companions as their owners dine on meals prepared by onsite chefs.

Next, dogs will be greeted by BARK Air concierge, who will "help them settle into their experience through socialization and dog-centric cabin preparation," per the release. They will also have access to various aids, the company added, including "calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs and calming jackets to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable flight."

Once onboard, BARK-branded treats, snacks and "surprises" will be offered to the dogs, and they will be "served their beverage of choice during ascent and descent to ensure they do not experience any ear discomfort commonly caused by changes in cabin pressure," BARK said.

“When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs — from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK.

“We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand’s mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the BARK family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world," he added.

In a statement of his own, Zahir Ibrahim, Chief Financial Officer at BARK, echoed those sentiments, stating, “We believe this initiative will raise awareness of BARK’s mission in a cost-effective manner. Given we are not committed to booking flights far in advance, we have a lot of flexibility to opportunistically charter flights during times of high demand."

"In parallel, we believe the additional traffic to BARK.co will raise awareness of our full offering, benefiting our core business in the long term," he continued.

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Museum and Exhibition Center, Exhibition Hall

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6 unique spa experiences around the world.

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From stunning views to local ingredients, custom shower treatments to shark sighting, these are some of the most unique–and luxurious–spa experiences around the world.

The Rainforest Spa at Sugar Beach - St. Lucia

Treatment rooms at Sugar Beach are in private treehouses.

With treatment rooms in private treehouses above a stream in the middle of the rainforest, the spa at Sugar Beach feels like a hidden secret. A range of treatments draw on ingredients from the nearby volcanic springs and cocoa farms, along with synthetic chemical-free Tata Harper skincare. Try the signature Rainforest Renewal, a body peel, massage and facial. If you’re only getting a massage, nothing will leave you smelling better than the Healing Coconut Milk massage, done with local coconut milk. Spa guests can use the Temazcal, with sauna and steam room, and the outdoor shower.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island – Maldives

You can watch marine life below you during treatments at the Over-Water Spa at Conrad Rangali ... [+] Island.

Imagine watching colorful fish and small sharks swim while getting the post-flight kinks out. The ultimate welcome to the Maldives, found at the Over-Water Spa at the Conrad Rangali Island. Walk across the bridge over some of the clearest water you’ll ever see and arrive at your private treatment room, where you can indulge in treatments focused on ancient wellness techniques. The Aromatherapy Gemstone Massage uses herb-infused oils and energy-balancing gemstones to encourage deep relaxation. Or, try a combination, like the Radiance treatment, that starts with a lymphatic drainage massage, followed by the Ayurveda practice of Shirodhara, dripping warm herbal oil to soothe the nervous system, followed by a facial and crystal massage. When you’re face-down, meditate by watching marine life go by through the glass floors below.

Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray – Dubai

The tilework at the Talise Ottoman spa is gorgeous.

The spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is breathtakingly beautiful. Literally, I gasped when I saw the tiles in the Turkish hammam and relaxation room. There are also saltwater pools and snow rooms (a relief after a day in the desert heat). Here, a hammam treatment is a must-do. The Royal Ottoman features a full body mitt exfoliation, shampoo, and honey mask. Pair with a Sultan’s Massage, a massage and stretching experience with aromatic oils. And save time to enjoy the pools and relaxation areas in the spa.

Kohler Waters Spa – Wisconsin

The custom shower treatments make the Kohler Waters Spa one of a kind.

It makes sense that a company known for designing showers would come up with unique water-based spa treatments. The Hydrotherapy Circuit involves a shower, exfoliation hot whirlpool, cool plunge pools, steam rooms and saunas. That’s before you even start your treatment. Try the new Fire and Ice experience, which uses a custom Vichy shower. A massage therapist will exfoliate your body, apply a carrot seed facial oil, and rinse you with warm and cold water before applying silky body butter. You’ll leave relaxed and refreshed, and maybe wanting to upgrade your at-home shower experience.

Apple Confirms Innovative iPhone 16 Pro Upgrade

‘civil war’ star on why the film’s president is not based on donald trump, nyt strands hints spangram and answers for friday april 12th, the dior spa at hôtel plaza athénée –paris.

A trip to the The Dior Spa at Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the ultimate luxury.

Visiting the Dior Spa in Paris is the ultimate luxury experience. Low lighting and cream-colored rooms are a tranquil respite from the city, and the new Le Soin Dior Privé Sur-Demande treatment provides a bespoke experience for the face or body. The treatment brings together expert techniques to combine electrostimulation and cryotherapy. During the facial treatment, skin is smoothed, plumped, lifted and visibly resculpted––great before a night out in the city. The body treatment targets the organs involved in detoxification, purifying from the inside out to de-puff and revitalize the skin.

T Spa Haven at Grand Hotel Tremezzo – Italy

The T Spa at Grand Hotel Tremezzo has views of Lake Como and stunning frescoes.

The iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo has a spa worthy of history books . It’s in an 18th-century villa, complete with original floor mosaics and dreamy frescoes, with views over Lake Como. Opt for the T Spa Haven treatment, a full face and body treatment that starts with an antioxidant massage using warmed lemon, bergamot and anise essential oils, followed by a Santa Maria Novella facial. The spa has an infinity pool, Mediterranean bath, steam room and sauna with lake views, and ice-fountain plunge. Do like the Italians and embrace the slow life here.

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• Exploring Moscow for the First Time? A Personal Guide is What You Need!

If you are coming to Moscow on business and need help with local transportation or translation during your stay, if you’ve got a couple of days to spare to do some sightseeing after you are done with all the important stuff, or if you go to Russia to check out all the tourist attractions in the first place, I can offer you the top-level personal driver and guide services for your entire trip’s duration. Since the meeting in Moscow Airport and until the moment you board the plane back home I’ll be your driver, guide and translator all-in-one, helping you find your way around the city and ensuring you’ll get the most out of your stay.

If you want to truly experience Moscow and get to know its rich historical and cultural heritage, take loads of pictures and just have a great time in a new and unfamiliar city, a personal guide is the way to go. It’s great if you have a friend showing you around or if you’re on an organized tour – but not all hidden tourist gems find their way into the generic program, you know. The tour schedule might not suit you, the attractions list might not have all the sights you had in mind, rolling together with a large group of people in a predetermined path might not be your way of spending time – there are plenty of reasons why people choose personal guides. If you are on a business trip, sightseeing might not be a top priority on your list of to-do things. But if there’s some free time left and you are in the mood to spend it discovering the various Moscow’s attractions, feel free to contact me and I’ll make sure you won’t regret it.

Only with a guide you’ll be able to survive the maze of Moscow’s streets

Moscow isn’t exactly the easiest city to find one’s way around if you are a foreign tourist or a businessman. Luckily, you’ve already had your stay planned beforehand by yourself or by other people responsible for that, with all the transportation and guide services arranged for. But what if you’d like to veer off the beaten path a little bit and check out something that’s not on your tour program? If you came by yourself and have no one to take care of meet and greet service in a Moscow airport, you might find yourself a little bit confused and overwhelmed. The language barrier can make things even more complicated if you don’t have someone who can translate with you – not so many people can speak English here, let alone other foreign languages. Feeling stranded in the airport in Moscow and being absolutely confused by the transportation system of the city is definitely not the best way to start your trip, so give a thought to the meet & greet service I can provide you straight from any Moscow international airportcustoms and passport control.

There are five airports in Moscow. Domodedovo airport and Sheremetyevo airport are the two international airports that most foreign visitors will arrive at. These two handle most of the international traffic, so they’re going to be your gateway to the city and the country. The customs procedures and passport control are nothing special; everything’s pretty much as you would expect them to be in any major airport around the globe. First you go through passport control. After you’ve got the stamps, you are free to pick up your luggage. Then it’s time for the customs proceedings. Just be sure to declare all your valuable possessions or large amounts of cash and hold to those papers until the day of departure, as you’ll need them when you depart. The time it takes to pass all the controls may vary depending on how many flights have arrived around that time; generally it takes anything from half an hour to an hour or more if it’s a particularly busy time.

Even locals get lost in Moscow sometimes, being a foreigner doesn’t help the situation

After you are done with all the paperwork, you walk out into the arrivals hall and are basically free to go about your business. If you’re not a first time visitor, can speak Russian or just feel confident exploring and finding your own way around Moscow, you can call a taxi, catch a train or a bus straight out of the airport and get to the city proper. After that, there’s a variety of ways to get where you want – but I’ve got to warn you that sometimes navigating Moscow can be hard even for a local. The public transportation system is fairly complex, the traffic is intense, and, as I said before, the language barrier can really get in your way when you need to find the simplest and quickest route around the city.

In most cases you’ll be much better off with someone who’ll take care of all that stuff for you, leaving your hands and mind free to enjoy the trip. We can arrange the meeting in airport if you provide me your contact and arrival data. Usually, I’d be holding a card with your name in the Moscow airport arrivals hall, standing near an easy-to-spot landmark right close to where you’ll be coming from. Of course, I can also provide you with photos of me so that you’d have an easier time finding me in the crowd. In case of an emergency you can also contact me via the cell phone number I will provide you with. I will wait for you to go through all the paperwork and customs control. Don’t worry if it takes a while, or if your plane is delayed – I’ll still be there to pick you up right after you’re done. It would be great if we could work out a preliminary schedule for your stay in Moscow, but there’s absolutely nothing stopping you from changing anything mid-course. I’m completely open to your suggestions any time during your stay in Moscow – just tell me what you need, and I’ll use all my knowledge and experience to guarantee you’ll have an unforgettably pleasant visit to Moscow.

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• A Case with Wrong Parking (Part I) With posting this picture of the Dworak family and me (taken by a passing tourist as we stood in Red Square in front of St. Basil's cathedral), I would like to tell you the story of their last day in Moscow and the big problem we were about to encounter.
• A Case with Wrong Parking (Part II) On May 4th about 5 PM, after seeing off my Austrian clients, Rupert, Alexandra, Victor and Jana, at Domodedovo airport, I was able to quickly get a ticket and catch the "AeroExpress" train which goes to  Paveletsky railway station in the center of Moscow within 45 minutes.
• A Case with Wrong Parking (Part III) ...A short time later, after seeing my wife off to her work at the hospital very early in the morning  (7 am) and while it was still night in Austria, I went downtown to take some interesting photos during the last repetition of Victory Parade on the Red Square I met on Tverskaya street one photographer from Minsk (capital of Belorussia) and one from St.
• Cold weather in Moscow During last several days the weather in Moscow became very cold: last night it was about -22...-24 C and during the day - about - 15 C. I am very happy right now that recently I bought a very good winter coat, made in Finland by special "Valtherm" technology.
• Improving Services with New Honda CR-V 2012 Let’s me introduce my new car, new Honda CR-V (2012), that I got yesterday on August 17 2012. It is the save and comfortable compact crossover that perfectly fits for family and business use taking into account specific of road condition and traffic in Russia.
• About Me Loooking for Moscow personal guide? Whether you wish to see the finest attractions in Moscow in 3 days or if you’re going to stay here longer for a sightseeing tour, I’ll be your guide!

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My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002. Read more about me and my services , check out testimonials of my former business and travel clients from all over the World, hit me up on Twitter or other social websites. I hope that you will like my photos as well.

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Cilento For Travellers

Discover Cilento, travel with soul

A millenary history full of unique legacies, crossroads of peoples through times.

Mith and history

Land and freedom

From Lucanians to Middle Age

Roccagloriosa

The Wall and the Gorge

Sanseverino

The Pompei of the twentieth century

Roscigno vecchia

Paestum, the Plain of Gods

Elea — Velia, the cradle of philosophy and medicine

RESTAURANTS

The pleasure of the table in the cradle of the Mediterranean Diet is almost a religion!

ACCOMMODATIONS

Whatever type of accommodation you prefer, with Cilento for Travellers you can find it!

Themed routes off the beaten paths, designed and created to illustrate the territory by all sides!

A land far from the city and above all far from the usual patterns, where getting lost often means finding oneself...

Journey to the Center of the Earth - Vallivona Sinkhole

The Blue Grotto

The mountain with the shells and the Error of God

Monte Bulgheria

Journey to the Centre of the Earth

Monte Cervati

CILENTO FOR TRAVELLERS

Everything you need to enjoy the beauties of this extraordinary National Park, with routes and travel tips designed for all those who want to breathe the deep soul of the Mediterranean.

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This New Luxury Travel Company Features Carbon-neutral Trips to the Dolomites, Victoria Falls, Amazon, and More

The 30 itineraries — all tested by the founders — include adventures in the Seychelles, Rwanda, Dolomites, Yellowstone, and Slovenia.

Katie Katz/Courtesy of Few & Far

Brit Sarah Dusek and her American husband Jacob Dusek have always viewed the world through a lens of possibilities. The couple met in Taipei, Taiwan, nearly two decades ago and started out raising their two sons in Montana — all while they launched what has become one of the preeminent glamping companies in the country, Under Canvas . It disrupted the old standards of rustic camping and replaced it with chic, eco-friendly safari-style tents against the background of some of the most iconic U.S. destinations. 

Now they’ve taken that same mindful model of meaningful outdoor experiences into the luxury travel space, debuting a new brand last month: Few & Far . It's a sustainable company dedicated to carbon-neutral exploration. “The heart of all of it is the magical connection there is when people connect with nature in extraordinary ways,” Sarah Dusek told Travel + Leisure.

Each of the 30 itineraries available on the site right now are ones that someone from the Dusek family has experienced first-hand, providing a personal level of curation and paired with a focus on putting sustainability first. 

Among her favorite trips offered are the Rwanda Gorilla Trek and Masai Mara Wildlife Adventure , a 12-day itinerary with visits to Kigali and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Masai Mara in Kenya, and Zanzibar in Tanzania. She took a group of female CEOs on the journey last October, saying that “it was absolutely mind-blowing and extraordinary” and that “every single woman on the trip said it was by far the most incredible trip she’s been on.” 

Another highlight is the five-day San Juan Islands Tented Camp Experience , a tailored group trip with accommodations set up specifically for each group. On Sarah Dusek’s own visit, she took about eight female CEOs there for a “boutique, five-star tented experience under the stars on a farm,” where they arrived by seaplane and then sea kayaked, hiked, and enjoyed outdoor farm-to-table dinners. The best part: every person could rest assured that their stay used 70 percent less water consumption than staying at an average hotel. 

Her own family traveled last Christmas inspired the Enchanting Southern Africa itinerary, a 12-day getaway from Cape Town up to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, before heading to a houseboat on the Chobe River in Botswana. “It was so special because you could be right on the water watching the wildlife morning, noon, and night,” she said. “The boys could fish and we could traverse up and down the Zambezi, experiencing a different view each day.” 

After that, the trip boards the luxurious Rovos Rail through Hwange National Park in Bulawayo to Pretoria, before ending in Johannesburg.

Having test-driven every single one of the itineraries on her own is what makes Few & Far’s curation so special. “All of these are very personal to us,” Sarah Dusek said. “They're an expression of who we are — and we love to share them.”

Launching a new travel company was never the intention, with the Duseks selling off Under Canvas in 2019 and moving their family to Cape Town, where they worked as venture capitalists helping empower and fund female entrepreneurs. But they continued to be avid travelers, committed to exposing their sons, now 12 and 15, to as many cultures and perspectives as possible. 

During a trip to the Forgotten Mountain’s remote region in northern South Africa’s Limpopo province along the Zimbabwe border, they knew they had stumbled upon something special in UNESCO’s Vhembe Biosphere Reserve . Soon, they had bought a 10,000-acre space, where they’re now set to debut as the 60-room Few & Far Luvhondo eco-lodge at the end of this year. Inspired by weaver bird nests, the site will include a solar-powered aerial experience with a cable car system featuring a 40-kilometer (about a 25-mile) track to provide a uniquely immersive way to explore the African bush and its wildlife.

“We hadn't planned on coming back to the commercial travel space again, but are still so passionate about travel and we still love curating extraordinary experiences,” Sarah Dusek said. “We kept thinking about the safari experience and how to reimagine it for our children and how we could incorporate conservation and travel.”

That forward-thinking eco-first philosophy is what drives all of the Duseks’ efforts. “Outdoor tourism can do so much good,” Sarah Dusek said. “There can be so much harmony with creating an economy, stimulating jobs, preserving wildlife, making sure that our habitats are protected, and that we don't lose biodiversity.”

In fact, through a combination of conservation efforts — largely from tree planting, as well as wetlands management, rewilding, and restoring — the eco-lodge should be on track to sequester as much as 100,000 more tons of carbon a year than it currently does. That’s especially meaningful since the 10,000 acres they own have more biodiversity than in all of Europe. 

Additionally, she started looking at the possibilities of helping the rural people, many of whom live in poverty and are generating a revenue stream through tourism. “You start educating people about the difference of what happens when we conserve and protect the land and start investing in the people and then you start to ripple effects in so many levels," she said.

Ultimately, what drives Sarah Dusek is her own dedication to instilling these values in her kids. “I want to show my kids how extraordinary our planet is and I want them to fall in love with it,” she said. “When you're out in it, magic happens and the chances of falling in love with the planet are infinitely greater.”

All of those facets come together in each of the trips through Few & Far — and she hopes that every traveler will be taken by the impact of their adventures. “Travel changes us and has the power to change a belief pattern,” she said. “It shows us that the way we live is not the way everyone lives and maybe not the right way to live.”

In particular that happens the most when she’s out on the great outdoors. “The more time I have spent in the natural world, the more I learn about the people, behaviors, patterns, and cultures in our world,” she said. “That makes us richer and gives us all a chance to realize gosh, all the little things matter.” 

For a full list of Few & Far’s trips, which range from $10,000 to $50,000 per trip, visit Few and Far's site .

Snow-capped peaks, scenic grandeur: What to expect at Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is no hidden gem. 

Over 4.1 million people visited the park last year, making it the fifth most visited national park in America, according to National Park Service statistics. 

It’s so busy in the summer that timed entry reservations are required for a good chunk of each day.

Here’s what draws so many people to Rocky Mountain and what travelers should know about the latest national park in USA TODAY’s yearlong series .

What is so special about Rocky Mountain National Park?

If you close your eyes and think of the southern Rockies, “Rocky Mountain National Park captures all of that,” said the park’s Public Affairs Officer Kyle Patterson.

“Snow capped peaks, amazing recreational opportunities for 12 months out of the year, watchable wildlife , and scenic grandeur,” she said that’s what visitors always extol. 

She added that the Continental Divide runs right through the park, and the park is the headwaters for numerous major rivers.

What is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park?

The answer depends on your interests.

“Do you want to see snow and ice, or do you want to see wildflowers and more greenery?” Patterson asked. “Are you interested in hiking? Are you interested in snowshoeing?” The park has more than 350 miles of hiking trails .

The busy season is late May through mid-October when temperatures are milder, all roads are open, and entry reservations are required during certain times of the day. 

“My favorite part about Rocky is just how different it is depending upon what season you visit the park,” Patterson said.

What city is closest to Rocky Mountain National Park? What town should I stay in?

“We have two wonderful communities that are right at the doorstep of Rocky Mountain National Park,” Patterson said. “Estes Park on the east side and Grand Lake on the west side.”

She added that about 80% of visitors enter through Estes Park, which is also closer to Denver and its international airport. However, she said visitors enjoy both gateway communities. 

“Estes Park and Grand Lake both have wonderful amenities from lodging to restaurants to other activities that people can do when they're visiting this area,” she said. 

Can you drive through Rocky Mountain National Park without a reservation?

Yes, but it depends on when you visit.

Timed entry reservations are required to access most of the park between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 14. 

However, if you want to access the park’s busy Bear Lake Road, you’ll need a different type of reservation called Timed Entry+. That reservation grants access to all the parks' roads but is specifically required for Bear Lake Road between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 20.

If you enter outside of those hours or dates, you won’t need a reservation, but it’s important to note that the park’s popular Trail Ridge Road , which connects the east and west sides of the park, is closed through the winter.

How long does it take to drive through Rocky Mountain National Park?

“If somebody's coming when Trail Ridge Road is open, we recommend people to give themselves at least three hours to drop over the top of the park,” Patterson said. 

That also allows time to stop and take in views and shorter hikes along the way. 

“You never know what you might see as you drive along the road, and you want to give yourself plenty of time,” she said. “Also, the speeds of travel on the road should be slow … It’s not like you’re driving a highway.”

How much time do I need to see Rocky Mountain National Park?

“Because we're so close to a large population in Colorado we have people that will come up here for two hours,” Patterson said. Locals can visit any time, but she said it would be “a bummer” to only spend a few hours in the park on a first visit. 

She said the average visit is around two days, though you can stay longer to experience more. 

Which Native tribes are tied to Rocky Mountain National Park?

“Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the country. Rocky was established in 1915,” Patterson said, but she and the park point out that Native Americans have stewarded the land for thousands of years.

 “What is now Rocky Mountain National Park is part of the traditional homeland and territory of many present-day Tribal nations including, the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Montana; Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, Oklahoma; Comanche Nation, Oklahoma; Eastern Shoshone Tribe of the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming; Kiowa Indian Tribe of Oklahoma, Northern Arapaho Tribe of the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming; Northern Cheyenne Tribe of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Montana; Southern Ute Indian Tribe of the Southern Ute Reservation, Colorado; Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah & Ouray Reservation, Utah; and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe of the Ute Mountain Reservation, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah,” the park acknowledges on its website.

What else should travelers know about Rocky Mountain?

It can feel like winter into May at the park, and winter can also creep into fall. 

Weather can also change rapidly and differ dramatically, depending on the elevation. The high altitude can also affect travelers who aren’t used to it.

“Just giving yourself some time to acclimate and taking care of yourself, like drinking lots of water, is really crucial because you can get dehydrated here really quickly,” she said. “Being prepared for traveling to a place like Rocky will make all the difference in the world.”

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

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House Speaker Mike Johnson to deliver remarks with Trump on 'election integrity'

WASHINGTON — House Speaker Mike Johnson will travel to former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Friday for remarks about “election integrity” with Trump, two sources directly familiar with the plans confirmed.

Asked by NBC News what his news conference with Trump will focus on, Johnson, R-Fla., said: “You’ll have to see. ... I look forward to going down there."

Asked to elaborate on “election integrity," Johnson said: “free and fair elections."

CNN first reported plans for the remarks. The House is set to be in session Friday, but votes are expected to be held in the morning.

Johnson faces threats to his job from his right flank and scrutiny over his handling of thorny issues in a narrow Republican majority, including a military aid package for Ukraine and other U.S. allies that has been held up for months, despite his vows to pass new Ukraine aid.

Johnson is under tremendous pressure from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., another Trump ally, who has threatened to force a vote on a motion to oust him over funding for Ukraine. Greene, who argues that congressional attention and funding should be turned to the southern border rather than Ukraine, last month filed a "motion to vacate" to depose Johnson but stopped short of forcing a vote to remove him.

A Republican former senior congressional aide said that the meeting at Mar-a-Lago may send a message to Greene that Johnson is close to Trump and that Trump supports his continued leadership of the House GOP. “This seems to be more about motion-to-vacate mitigation than anything else,” the former aide said.

Before he was elected speaker, Johnson had boosted Trump's false claims of widespread election fraud in the 2020 presidential election and pursued legal efforts to invalidate President Joe Biden's electoral victory. In December 2020, Johnson led an amicus brief signed by more than 100 House Republicans in support of a Texas lawsuit seeking to overturn Biden's wins in four battleground states.

Johnson endorsed Trump in November, not long after he took the speaker’s gavel.

Although Trump did not announce an outright endorsement in the speaker's race last year, he seemed to boost Johnson's bid, writing on his Truth Social platform , “My strong SUGGESTION is to go with the leading candidate, Mike Johnson, & GET IT DONE, FAST!”

Days after he announced his endorsement of Trump, Johnson met with him at a fundraiser for Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., at Mar-a-Lago in November.

Ali Vitali is a Capitol Hill correspondent for NBC News, based in Washington.

Jonathan Allen is a senior national politics reporter for NBC News, based in Washington.

Summer Concepcion is a politics reporter for NBC News.