A fabulous taste of the Amalfi Coast
EXCLUSIVELY for MoS readers: A culinary tour of ‘the world’s most beautiful coastline’ with legendary TV chef Gennaro Contaldo
THE most beautiful stretch of coastline in the world? With its towering cliffs, dramatic seaside towns and the glittering Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast must surely come close. But it’s more than just a stunning setting. There is the energy and culture of Naples, and extraordinary Pompeii, for ever preserved after the Vesuvius eruption of AD 79. And then there’s a rich culinary tradition, from pasta-making to mozzarella – still lovingly crafted here – washed down afterwards with refreshing limoncello.
You will be joined on this special escorted tour by the godfather of Italian cuisine, Gennaro Contaldo. He grew up on the Amalfi Coast and no one knows more about the region’s timeless appeal. He will personally show readers his home town, and join you for liqueur tastings and cooking demonstrations. There is simply no better way to experience the seductive Amalfi Coast.
REASONS TO BOOK
GENNARO CONTALDO TOUR The legendary chef will take you on a guided tour of the place where he was raised, Minori, a town that’s famous for its pasta.
COOKERY MASTERCLASS Enjoy limoncello tastings with Gennaro, who will also give you a cookery demonstration of the skills he learned on the Amalfi Coast as a young man. Enjoy a farewell meal with him on your final night.
SUPERB TASTES OF ITALY This is a journey that will tantalise the tastebuds throughout. You will visit a mozzarella producer, enjoy meals at excellent restaurants and have the chance to try out your cooking skills.
CLASSIC SIGHTS Visit the extensive ruins of Pompeii, the Roman city destroyed by the might of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. On a guided walking tour with a local expert, you will get an insight into everyday Roman life as you wander the basilica, forum and amphi- theatre. You will also discover the Greek temples of Paestum, with their gleaming white marble set against a mountain backdrop. This is largely off the tourist track, but it’s well worth the effort.
THE AMALFI COAST Discover the 13 towns of the Amalfi Coast, all full of history and culture. Stops include the wonderful Villa Rufolo – the beautiful grounds were the inspiration for the setting of Wagner’s opera Parsifal. You’ll also see glorious Positano and visit Villa Cimbrone, which has entranced visitors including Winston Churchill, Virginia Woolf and Greta Garbo, who famously fell in love here.
CAPRI No visit to this part of Italy would be complete without making the voyage across the cobalt-blue Tyrrhenian Sea to the gorgeous island of Capri.