Friday, October 10, 2008

A trip to Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast



My first trip to Italy was 12 years ago. It was a love from first sight, and since then , I've been to Italy , 8 times. When we started to plan our yearly vacation , I thought of the Northern lakes, especially Lago Como. We've been there a year and a half ago , for only one day and enjoyed it very much. But then I talked with one of my patients who also travels to Italy a lot and he asked me - Have you been in the south of Italy? I answered not, and he said I must go there. Then I asked another friend, and he answered - It's the most beautiful place in the world!! So could I have another choice. Ans how was the Vacation ? In one word - Stunning. Breathtaking views, great food, wonderful atmosphere and lovely weather.

Some Tips :

1. If you can , fly to Naples (not Rome) . We lost almost a whole day driving from Fiumicino to Sorrento and Back.

2. If budget is not too tight , I would recommend our Hotel - Grand Hotel Royal. Great location , very close to the centre of Sorrento, just over the cliff above the sea (With an elevator that brings you right to the water line) , Beautiful and clean rooms, and good Service.

3. You must visit Ravello - some people miss it, since it's not sitting along the Coast, but It's beautiful and has 2 gorgeous Villas with a great view to the sea.

4. Every Wine Lover should try O'Canonico restaurant. It stands in the main square of Sorrento and besides lovely cuisine, it has uncomparable wine list (It also operates as an Online wine Shop - Italian Wine Selection.). I've had there a half bottle of Il Borro 2004, a very nice Super Tuscan for a about 25 Euros. Its mostly a Cabarnet-Merlot blend with gorgeous nose of ripe black fruits , tobacco and some mint. Medium to full bodied , with still present tannins, but quite smooth, and medium after-taste. I'd score it around 92-93.

Added- Some pictures