Internationale groepsreis Amalfi Coast: Pompeii & Pizza Family Holiday

This trip starts in the village of Bomerano, on the Agerola plains above the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy a warm welcome from local hosts, the Acampora family, before settling in. Land only clients can arrive at any time, although we do recommend joining the group transfer at the airport as public transport options to the hotel are limited.

After a short private transfer to Amalfi (30mins), we take the boat along the coast to Positano, a near vertical town of colourful buildings reached by a network of ancient paths and tracks. During the journey we take in the beautiful classic views of the Amalfi Coast and once in Positano we will start exploring this picturesque town, strolling among its winding streets and there is time to visit the beautiful Cathedral, enjoy a swim in the blue sea or visit the unique boutiques for some great shopping opportunities. We will also enjoy an optional lunch in a pizzeria and a refreshing Italian gelato before returning in the late afternoon to Bomerano by boat and minibus.

Today we descend from the Agerola hills and take a transfer (approx. 45mins) to Pompeii, once a thriving port town until Vesuvius’ catastrophic eruption spanning two days in 79AD during which the city was buried in ash and pumice. Lost for 1700 years, Pompeii is now a UNESCO World Heritage site as the perfectly preserved remains give us an amazing insight into life in a Roman city, complete with bathhouses, bakeries and homes - some of which are still have walls adorned with detailed frescoes. You may take some time to explore the site independently but we recommend opting for a detailed tour accompanied by a local guide which can be hired locally for approx. €10pp depending on the group size. In the afternoon we head to the famous volcano that looms over the million inhabitants of Naples, Mt Vesuvius. The vehicle will take you at an altitude of approx. 1000m and from there to the crater you will need to ascend on a path which is approx. 150 meters long and quite steep in places. A local guide will then take you on a short walk along the rim of the crater and he/shewill explain you the fascinating history of Vesuvius and its volcanic activity. We return to the hotel by bus in the late afternoon.Please note that in case of adverse weather conditions such as fog, storms or heavy rain the local authorities may deicide to restrict or prevent access to Vesuvius. In the event this inclusion cannot be offered on your departure, we will be taking you to Herculaneum to visit its perfectly preserved remains and virtual museum which give an amazing insight into the life of a Roman city.

This morning we take a short transfer to visit a local cheese producer based in Agerola, where we have the opportunity to sample delicious freshly made mozzarella, prepared in front of us by hand following a centuries-old recipe. We may also have time to visit the small farm owned by the same family of cheesemakers. We then depart for a visit to vibrant Amalfi, which was popular with the British upper classes in Edwardian times. The large Duomo dominates the town with its bright coloured tiles so typical of the region. We have a few hours to explore the wonderful historic centre and alleys before taking an interesting tour of the Paper Museum, which celebrates the long-established paper making tradition in Amalfi. The guide will explain how the Amalfi paper was once made and you will also have the chance to experiment it yourself, using some of the ancient paper making machines which are still in working order for demonstrations.  We then make our way back to the hotel and enjoy a pizza-making class before dinner! 

Today is free to relax at the hotel's pool or by one of the local beaches. Alternatively you could opt to take a day trip to the world famous island of Capri and decide to explore the island on foot, by boat and chairlift to visit the network of small pedestrian streets, the remains of the Roman Villa Jovis and the famous Faraglioni (rock stacks) and Blue Grotto. Another option is to spend the day in Ravello, a charming and peaceful town perched high on the cliffs above Amalfi, famous for its stunning panoramic gardens and its impressive Cathedral. Your tour leader will not always join these optional activities but will help you to arrange transport locally. 

The Amalfi Coast is also renowned for its colourful ceramics and this morning we visit a local artisan's 'bottega', where the kids will have the opportunity to paint a pottery souvenir!  Later we set off for a fun walk along a short section of one of the world's finest day walks: the 'Path of the Gods'. The route follows the contours of the land with amazing views of the Amalfi Coastline far below. In season the meadows are carpeted with flowers and the coastal waters teem with cruisers and pleasure boats. Please be aware that the terrain can be rocky or uneven at times and there parts which are a little exposed therefore not suitable for severe vertigo sufferers. After a barbecue lunch (included, weather permitting) we will return to the hotel on foot.

After a scenic ride down to Amalfi (30 mins) we will enjoy a half-day kayak excursion along the Amalfi Coast. This is the perfect finale for the trip as it allows to explore Italy’s famous coastline from the most spectacular angle: in the midst of the sparkling blue sea. After a short introductory lesson on how to kayak and safety at sea we will set off, led by an experienced local guide, to the west towards Runghetiello Grotto. The route will take us along Amalfi’s finest beaches as well as under natural rock arches and into sea caves, giving us the opportunity to admire the old watch towers that dot the entire length of this coast. Those not wishing to participate can wait for the rest of the group at the lovely beach where the activity starts. Please note that in the event the kayaking cannot take place due to bad weather, the leader will organise an alternative activity such as a day-trip to Sorrento or Capri. We return to the hotel in the evening and enjoy a delicious group farewell dinner.

End at Bomerano hotel.