Set on southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast is the beachside town of Positano; a vertical town set upon hills that lead down to the stunning coastal waters below.
Visitors of Positano uniquely explore the town through steep flights of steps and along narrow alleyways instead of traditional roads and footpaths.
This picture-perfect town is a dramatic panorama of colours especially when seen from the sea, with colours including green, white, pink and yellow buildings set upon the silvery grey pebble beaches and the rich blue of the sea.
It is believed that the town – of which was initially developed around a Benedictine abbey – was founded in the 9th Century and named after Poseidon, God of the Sea.
It grew in size since it was founded but has had terrible luck, including a pillaging by Pisa in 1268 in which it increased its defences to include steep, narrow roads, massive, fortified walls, and all-important watch towers. In 1343 the town was destroyed by a significant tsunami, and in the 15th century it was the victim of continual attacks by Ottoman pirates. During the 18th century, things were looking up when Positano enjoyed prosperity as a major port and trading hub. In the mid-20th century Positano became an extremely popular tourist destination to those aware, with its popularity often linked to John Steinbeck’s essay in Harper’s Bazaar of May 1953: “Positano bites deep”, Steinbeck wrote. “It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.”
Thanks to its position, Positano’s climate is very mild and of the Mediterranean type; perfect for tourists who wish to enjoy the beach for extended stays. The winters are very warm with minimum temperatures that never drop below 6 degrees. The summers are long, warm and sunny, with the heat fanned by the sea breeze.
With Positano being just over an hour’s drive from the large metropolitan city of Naples and an even shorter ride to the historic city of Pompeii, Positano is a must-visit and must-stay town when you are in Italy.
