A TOAST TO THE COAST

Raise your glass to the delights of the Amalfi Coast! A goblet of outstanding wine, a generous portion of fresh Campanian produce and a spoonful of gorgeous views – this is the tempting recipe you are about to savour. Guests will enjoy visits to two wineries, learn all about the production of some of the region’s most prestigious wines and feast their eyes on the breathtaking landscapes to be admired from the hilltop town of Ravello.

You begin your day with a scenic ride to a renowned winery, located on the sharply rising cliffs of Furore, about five hundred metres above sea level. No wonder local viticulture is called “heroic” and wines “extreme”. Wine growing here is indeed an epic endeavour, a constant struggle with nature to claim every single inch of land. The vineyards are perched along steep slopes, dramatically suspended between the sky and the sea. Everything, from planting to harvesting, must be carried out manually as tractors and mechanical machinery are impracticable. Since 1983 the owners’ unstinting efforts and enthusiasm have been rewarded with extraordinary, powerful wines, authentic expressions of this unique territory. On a 20-minute tour of the vineyards and cellar, literally carved out of the stone, guests will discover which grape varieties grow on these unpromising hills and find out about wine making and ageing techniques.

Later, reach a nearby restaurant and sit down to a delicious lunch paired with the cantina’s wines – the golden and ruby triumph of this rocky terrain, caressed by the Mediterranean sunlight and a bracing sea breeze. Unforgettable views of the sapphire-blue Tyrrhenian Sea below complete this feast of the senses.

After lunch drive to Ravello for some independent sightseeing. With its unparalleled panoramas and splendid gardens, this tiny jewel of a town has captivated countless artists, writers and musicians throughout the centuries. Founded in the 5th century as a refuge from the Barbarian invasions, Ravello flourished under the rule of Amalfi when wealthy merchants built its most famous villas. Highlights include the Church of San Giovanni del Toro, home to the pulpit mosaics that prompted M.C. Escher to create his interlocking patterns; Villa Rufolo, whose atmospheric setting inspired the enchanted Garden of Klingsor of Wagner’s Parsifal; Villa Cimbrone, world-known for its belvedere poetically named Terrace of Infinity. Ravello also prides itself on a thriving tradition of ceramic-making. As you wander through its streets you’ll encounter a number of pottery shops selling beautifully displayed and exquisitely hand-painted goods, including plates, vases, fruit bowls, mugs and limoncello cups.

The final stop on your excursion will bring you to a farm located in the regional park of the Lattari Mountains where rare, centuries-old vineyards can still be found. The estate covers eight hectares and was established in 2004 by three farming families who shared the aim of reviving ancient viticultural traditions. All of the vineyards are planted in volcanic soil and situated on steep terraced slopes, between three hundred and five hundred metres above sea level. The highlight of the farm is a historical pre-phylloxera vineyard, dating back three hundred years, where Tintore and Piedirosso grape varieties are grown. The fruit of these vines makes a valuable contribution to the estate’s much-praised signature wine. Guests will enjoy a tour of the vineyards and 17th century wine cellar and learn all about the estate’s philosophy, values and production methods which centre on respect for the environment and eco-sustainability. By selecting a butterfly as one of its symbols, this winery aims to demonstrate its commitment to preserving and protecting nature and to supporting the region’s efforts to reduce the use of phytochemicals. Top off your day with a tasting of the estate’s wines before riding in comfort back to your accommodation.