You Had Me At Ravello

Today we fell in love again, this time with Ravello. What a charming and beautiful slice of Italy! Where Rome is bustling, crowded and raw, Ravello is peaceful, polished and picturesque. On our journey to Ravello, we had other wonderful experiences along the way as well.

Our first stop today was Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Gratto). This cave is about 200 meters down from the coastal road, has no natural access above the water line and was not discovered until 1932. Inside, it is lit a turquoise blue (or emerald green to the people who named it apparently) from the sunlight that refracts through a 15 meter underwater tunnel that connects the cave to the sea outside. The tour is equal parts natural wonder and a cheesy commercial Italian tour guide experience complete with singing a few Italian classics, but definitely worth doing.

Our next stop was the town of Amalfi. The view and the vibe at the waterfront are what coastal Italy dreams are made of.

We meandered through the town (we've become very good at this!) taking in the sights and experiences.

Our driver Michele recommended we visit his cousin Roberto who he said makes the best lemon gelato in all of Italy. April & Fiona had the lemon gelato (which was more like a sorbet) and we shared a fresh squeezed orange juice. What a refreshing treat on such a hot day! If we ever come back to Amalfi we will definitely go back for more of Roberto's citrus delights.

From Amalfi we continued our drive along the coast where the views around every corner seemed more stunning than the last.

After we passed through the lovely town of Atrani we turned up the hill towards Ravello. Turning sharp corners and following the narrow windy road, passing lemon orchards, vineyards, and an old monastery, eventually we made it 1,500 feet up the hill to our destination. As soon as we stepped out of the car we were smitten. We welcomed the peacefulness, the cool breeze and wow, what a view!

We had a lunch reservation at the Belmond Hotel Caruso, We enjoyed delicious seafood and Rosé Champagne overlooking the nicest view imaginable. It was so peaceful you could hear the symphony of birds and smell the floral aroma from the lush gardens all around us. Seriously, it was like a dream!

After lunch we wandered around the property for a little while. The hotel is built around 900 year old Roman ruins and feels like you're walking through a secret garden.

Then we ventured off the hotel property (at a much slower pace than we have moved since we arrived in Italy) and explored Ravello. There are lovely gardens, old trees, stone pathways and ancient ruins all nestled together. April & Fiona were very patient while we took photos, and took many of their own as well. They especially loved all the cats that wander through the gardens and lane ways.

Eventually we arrived at the town square which offered new views, just as stunning, and quaint patios. We picked one and stopped for a quick beer and a lemon spritz (lemoncello, Presecco and sparkling water) while the girls chased after more cats.

On our way back down the windy road driving away from Ravello we spotted a fruit truck. We stopped for delicious fresh fruit straight from the farm.

Back at our villa with our cherries, peaches, cantaloupe, strawberries, oranges and tomatoes, we settled in for a quiet evening with a cheese and fruit board and pasta with pesto (made with fresh picked basil) prepared by April.

Today was a treat for all our senses and it was nice to take our time enjoying the sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes and the moments.

Solo amore,

Laura, Matt, April & Fiona 🐈