Amalfi is one of the most incredible coastal towns in Italy and it attracts travellers throughout the year from all over the world. For those wanting to visit the area but seeking to uncover the less-trodden tourist trail, Minori is a wonderful place to stay. Only a short drive away from Amalfi and the glamorous Positano, Minori is much less cosmopolitan and somewhat more rustic than its neighbours.
Here is why I suggest this gorgeous town as a base when exploring the Amalfi Coast.
Choose Minori When Staying on the Amalfi Coast
There is no doubt that the atmosphere that resonates in Minori is genuine. The lively seafront and the bustling pedestrian shopping streets are reflective of authentic everyday Italian life in an otherwise rather tourist-driven region.
The laid back fishing village is a hidden gem, one that retains an identity that it has held strong for centuries. This quiet, pretty seaside town is a wonderful place to explore – and so photogenic too.
What to See
This is a place steeped in history and was once a prestigious summertime retreat for wealthy influential Romans. The town’s museum displays lots of artefacts that were found when an ancient villa was uncovered and excavated. You can see vases, frescos, mosaics and other beautiful pieces. The underground ruins themselves are also worth a visit.
A great way to stretch the legs and get a feel for the area is to walk from Minori to Ravello. The two-hour stroll will allow you to take in some wonderful views and Ravello itself has excellent cafes that are perfect for a morning cappuccino.
The ‘Town of Good Taste’
Travel and food go hand in hand and Italy is a definite haven for food lovers. Minori does not disappoint when it comes to local specialities. During the Bourbon era the town was the main provider of pasta and pastries to Naples. The streets were strewn with flourmills and drying pasta hung in the piazzas.
Every region in Italy has its speciality pasta and here it is ‘scialatielli’, which are thick ribbons of fresh pasta. You will find it in many of the local restaurants – and you really have to try it!
Another snack to look out for is ‘ndunderi’. These dainty little balls of dough were once made with spelt and rennet. You will be pleased to know that the recipe has been refined and the dish is now created with flour, ricotta, eggs and grated cheese. Delicious!
Terraced lemon groves punctuated by chestnut poles line the steep hillsides and the Amalfi lemons have been a mainstay in food production in the area for years. Used to make the wonderful pastries, cakes and the famous limoncello liquor (a delightful evening tipple), these fruits are particularly fragrant.
Minori is a fabulous place to base yourself when exploring this area. It’s only a 15-minute drive from Amalfi itself and within easy access of Pompeii, Naples and the gorgeous coastline. Plus the sunsets are among the best I have ever seen!
Where to Stay
Palazzo Vingius – My favourite part of this hotel is the garden; it’s the perfect place to relax and write in my journal. I also love its authenticity. Terracotta floors and stunning ceramics give the rooms a traditional Italian feel, while the free WiFi, mini bar and air conditioning bring them into the twenty-first century.
I highly recommend having your morning meal at Palazzo Vingius. It’s a hearty affair enjoyed in the panoramic breakfast room: the perfect start to the day!
Villa Isabella – I love that this coastal hotel is just a one-minute walk from the beach. The rooms are stunning and are decorated with classic features and antique furniture, combining gorgeous wooden beams with over the top chandeliers. The air conditioning in Villa Isabella is a real bonus when you want to take a break from the Amalfi sunshine and indulge in a mid-afternoon siesta.
Minori Palace – Treat yourself to this stunning accommodation option, perfectly situated just three minutes away from the beach. The elegant, bright and airy rooms of Minori Palace are excellently equipped and all have free WiFi, which makes keeping in touch a breeze!
A continental breakfast is the perfect way to set you up for the day, and I really appreciate that the tour information desk makes pre-booking tickets to attractions super easy.
How to Get to Minori
The flight from the UK to Naples Airport is just over 2 and a half hours. When you arrive, the easiest and most stress-free way to get to Minori is by a private or shared transfer with Shuttle Direct. The journey to the city takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, and by booking with this reputable company you are guaranteed a comfortable, reliable and efficient transfer to your hotel. You will be met at the airport and taken directly to your destination. This is definitely my preferred transfer option.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is one of the leading transfer companies in Europe and North Africa and take great pride in offering a reliable shuttle service that can be ordered on a private or shared basis. Pre-book in the UK and let us take care of your journey from the airport to wherever you are headed.
