Our guide to the most romantic place on Earth – the Amalfi Coast
Why the Insta-perfect Amalfi Coast makes the ultimate smug couples break
This rugged stretch of Italian coastline is a mecca for A-listers seeking a romantic holiday in the sun. The scenery looks like it’s straight out of a James Bond film, and the gorgeous beaches and intimate restaurants make it almost impossible not to want to snog the person next to you. And even if you don’t fall for the person you’ve brought with you, you’re guaranteed to lose your heart to this perfect paradise.
screams intimacy and seclusion – we wouldn’t be surprised if they were on a commission rate for securing engagement proposals.
We stayed in an executive junior suite with amazing sea views and a balcony – plus a king-sized bed that we totally imagined had been snuggled in by an A-lister before us. Rooms start from £360 a night. For a more budget-friendly option, the nearby La Casetta Fra I Limoni (Lacasettafrailimoni.it) has similarly jaw-dropping views with a more rustic feel for around £100 a night.
Bowled over on a boat
Despite having some of the most awesome sea views you could imagine, the Amalfi coast is best seen from the sea itself – by yacht. Beyoncé and Jay-z regularly moor up on this part of the Med, and Olivia Palermo and Lea Michele have both taken boats out along the beautiful coast. There are plenty of options for hiring a vessel with pedalos and private yachts both available. We took a yacht directly from the hotel pier at Santa Caterina (a private yacht excursion from the hotel costs from around a whopping £1,635), which took us right along the Italian peninsula to Amalfi town, where you can see why this destination is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The food of love
It’s pretty much impossible to eat badly in Italy, and this area is famous for its seafood. We dined at the Al Mare restaurant, where you can lunch on grilled fish and pizzas, but seek out hidden gems, too, like La Tonnarella (Ristorantelatonnarella.com), which is perched right on the beach and, despite the plastic tables and chairs, is a real celeb magnet. The beautiful setting and super-tasty food make it the perfect spot for a romantic feast.
Breathtaking beaches
Amalfi town is the perfect place to while away a chic afternoon. It’s adorned with bars, restaurants and, of course, the famous Marina Grande beach, which sits opposite the town’s picturesque historic centre. Despite its size, it’s the most popular beach on the coast, and you’ll have to arrive early in peak season. An Insta-brag location with blue sea on one side and the mountains on the other, it’s a favourite with honeymooners like Lauren Conrad and Reese Witherspoon.
When the world gives you lemons…
This area of Italy is famous for its lemons, which are harvested between February and October. Santa Caterina grows its own for use in food, drinks and even spa treatments. But make like Ferne Mccann and Vicky Pattison and try out some of the local limoncello, which you can see being made at the Gambardella distillery in Minori (Gambardella.it). Just remember to leave plenty of room in your luggage to take a few bottles home.