A Long Weekend in the Mediterranean: the Coast of Sorrento

Collect your car this morning and head for the hills on a half-day tour of Pompeii, one of Italy’s most famous ancient cities. Shadowed by the looming Mount Vesuvius (that both destroyed and preserved the city), Pompeii is a way to step back in centuries as perfectly paved roads, frescoed houses and quaint shops spring to life before your eyes. Your guide will take you through the Forum, the hub for social life in Pompeii’s heyday; into a pristinely preserved bakery or thermopolium, where locals would buy their food and drink; and finally, into one of the city’s traditional houses where you will catch a glimpse of what day-to-day life was like for Pompeii’s residents. After the tour, wind your way back down the mountain, drop off your car and head for a cosy café or bustling bar for a drink or two, before taking in more of Sorrento’s sights or simply enjoying the sunshine. Some Sorrento hot spots to explore include hiking the coast along the Path of the Sirens, taking in the panoramic views from the Il Deserto convent and hopping aboard a boat to explore the Capri Blue Grotto.

Hop in the car with a private guide and take in the sights of the Amalfi Coast, known by many as ‘The Divine Coast’ - you’ll find out why on this full day tour. The plunging cliffs and craggy rocks eroded by the sea and the wind create stunning views along the entire coast. Stop for a view of Positano from above, with the majolica-tiled dome of its Cathedral and its houses clinging prettily to the sides of the coast; drive through Praiano; catch a glimpse of Furore’s fjord and of the tower of Conca de’ Marini before stopping in Amalfi. Saunter through its bustling centre and admire St Andrew Cathedral's magnificent façade, while deciding which one of the many tantalising shops and cafés to pop in for a browse. Your guide will be able to tell you all kinds of historical facts and fascinating anecdotes to enrich your trip along this stunning stretch of Italy’s south coast. Spend some time exploring by yourselves before heading for Ravello, a peaceful village perched atop the cliffs overlooking Amalfi, which inspired artists from all over the world, including Richard Wagner and Gore Vidal, to name but two.

Head back to Sorrento for your final evening in Italy. Sip on home-brewed limoncello and tuck into deliciously fresh seafood as the sun turns the postcard-perfect coast a glowing shade of gold.