From Sorrento as our home base, we ventured out to islands, ruins, farms and factories.
The first was to the mountainous island of Ischia, the largest island off the coast of Naples. Of particular interest there is the Aragonese Castle located on a massive rock, connected to the island by a manmade stone bridge. It was built to protect residents from volcanic eruptions and pirates. It had also been home to a Clarisse order of nuns who had an interesting yet eerie practice of praying with their decomposed sorelle.
After a leisurely stroll through the main street filled with shops, boutiques and local crafts, we headed to a farm for lunch in the private grotto-like cellar of Fernando, who along with his wife, prepared and served a truly farm-to-table meal topped off by a very potent rum cake. Thanks to Alessandro we had a designated driver.
Another breath-taking view was in store. At the very top of the island, a caffe and bar offered refreshment, relaxation and a panoramic view. Limoncello and seaside scenery - perfect together.
Then back in the bus, down the steep, curvy road to La Mortella, a garden paradise with tropical plants, flowers, wildlife and colorful birds. Google it to find out its interesting history of ownership and permeance today.
But the day was not over. We returned to Sorrento with energy left for some shopping, pizza and local musicians in Piazzo Tasso. Una giornata molto buona!
The first was to the mountainous island of Ischia, the largest island off the coast of Naples. Of particular interest there is the Aragonese Castle located on a massive rock, connected to the island by a manmade stone bridge. It was built to protect residents from volcanic eruptions and pirates. It had also been home to a Clarisse order of nuns who had an interesting yet eerie practice of praying with their decomposed sorelle.
After a leisurely stroll through the main street filled with shops, boutiques and local crafts, we headed to a farm for lunch in the private grotto-like cellar of Fernando, who along with his wife, prepared and served a truly farm-to-table meal topped off by a very potent rum cake. Thanks to Alessandro we had a designated driver.
Another breath-taking view was in store. At the very top of the island, a caffe and bar offered refreshment, relaxation and a panoramic view. Limoncello and seaside scenery - perfect together.
Then back in the bus, down the steep, curvy road to La Mortella, a garden paradise with tropical plants, flowers, wildlife and colorful birds. Google it to find out its interesting history of ownership and permeance today.
But the day was not over. We returned to Sorrento with energy left for some shopping, pizza and local musicians in Piazzo Tasso. Una giornata molto buona!
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