Italian Sonnet ~ From Pompeii to Amalfi

I'm always filled with awe looking at the picturesque sights of Europe - ancient architecture, gorgeous towns, serpentine roads overlooking a breath-taking view. If I have to create picture perfect memories, always have #HappyTravellers by my side, then my Yatra would be to Italy - stretching from Pompeii to Amalfi. If Rome and Venice churns out romance then Naples is just the right beginning for an explorer at heart. With Naples being my landing city, I would explore the slightly less-famous side of Italy. Though many travel to Naples to relish its grandeur, history and vintage charm but I would love to embark upon the roads less travelled. 

As one travels from city to city, you discover ancient ruins, history preserved with time and old villas aging gracefully. You can't but admire the beauty of ancient city of Pompeii which is believed to be founded in 7th century BC and was buried for many centuries under the ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It was discovered in 1559 and has been one of the most admired tourist destinations since. With dormant Mount Vesuvius sitting majestically in the background and a peek into one of the oldest civilizations of the world, Pompeii would be a place of interest for the entire family. Wouldn't it be amazing to see amphitheater, stone paved lanes, ancient houses, recovered artwork from centuries ago! 

After exploring the fascinating city of Pompeii and driving across breathtaking vistas, our next stop would be Sorrento. A town dazzled with narrow lanes, sea cliffs and luxury hotels is poetry set in time. Ancient lanes, lemons trees filing the air with zesty scent and local food would be a treat to savor. We would look forward to relish the local delicacies made from fresh fruits. Good food with family is a perfect recipe for enjoyment, isn't it? Stroll at the Piazza Tasso and visit to the Sorrento Cathedral during the day; and there would be nothing better than spending the evening at the top of the harbor - relishing the splendid view of the town.

After bidding adieu to the gorgeous city of Sorrento, our yatra would be to one of the most beautiful 50 miles in the world - The famous Amalfi drive. This stretch of road built by Romans is not only exquisite but also a dose of thrill. Running along the coastline, zigzagging in the mountains, one can visit many Italian towns. What else could set the pace up than hiring a motor-bike? ...And charting our own journey along the hairpin bends which sets the adrenaline high. It will be a right mix of joy and thrill. Pristine views for the less adventurous pillow riders and a dose of adventure for those maneuvering the path.

There are many beautiful towns in this stretch - Positano, Praiano, Vallone Di Furore, Ravello and Amalfi. Though it may not be possible to cover all but a stop at major towns would be enough. Also, it's my ardent desire to interact with Italian people and listen to the fables associated with these places. Or, have an Espresso in an open Cafe with a local artist playing a musical instrument in the background. What a treasured memory it would be! ...And next town to venture on this trip would be Positano, a town build on a hill that illuminates as the dusk sets in and mesmerizes the tourists with its spectacular view.

Vibrant view of the colorful houses, sound of italian music and the view of the beautiful town at dusk will infuse romance. It will be a fairy tale for kids and romantic escape for the grown ups. And, being a foodie and a lover of Italian cuisine, I would love to book a one day cooking course offered in this city for our family. Remember, a family that eats together stays together. Well, cooking together would bond us more during this trip. 

With an unparalleled beauty in this area - from quiet beaches to charming restaurants, from authentic Italian cuisine to rare booze, it's impossible not to fall in love with these towns. Be it the small town of Praiano sandwiched between Postino and Amalfi or Ravello, a town situated above the Amalfi Coast which is famous for its ancient villas. Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo are perfect spots to spend family time - stroll in the grand gardens, exploring the 'Terrace of the Infinite' or a leisurely walk admiring the architecture. As the day would end, this place will give a clear view of Amalfi town.

There are many attraction in Amalfi but the coastal scenery and dramatic cliffs have exotic beauty and charm. A walk in the labyrinthine backstreets of the city and brush with natives will give a peek into their lives. How wonderful it would be to spend a day here savoring in the visual treat this town has to offer! It would be a serene yet magnificent end of our yatra. A peaceful culmination to this beautiful journey.

With a generous dose of scenic beauty, thrill and food, I'm sure it will be an unforgettable trip - A yatra to the less-famous but more-beautiful side of Italy. From spotting a Vespa parked in the narrow lanes of ancient town to flowers adorning old houses, from learning cooking from Italians to sipping coffee with them, this yatra would be one of a lifetime. Exploring many UNESCO World Heritage Sites and scaling up and down the roads of these places, we will return as #HappyTravellers for sure...

*This post is written for 'Creating Happy Travellers!' contest on Indiblogger sponsored by www.yatra.com