The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations – but its popularity has led to serious overcrowding. Here’s an alternative that’s just as stunning
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations – but its popularity has led to serious overcrowding. Here’s an alternative that’s just as stunning(Image: Budanatr via Getty Images)
Southern Italy’s charm is well-established, with its scenic beauty and incomparable cuisine. Particularly in the summertime, visitors flock to this region to bask on its serene beaches and enjoy outdoor dining nightly.
Yet the surge of popularity for destinations such as Amalfi, Capri, and Positano has recently resulted in extreme overcrowding. Those in search of a more secluded coastal retreat would be delighted by a certain southern town that remains quietly off the beaten path, conveniently situated just a two-hour jaunt from the energy of the Amalfi Coast.
Santa Maria di Castellabate, nestled along the Cilento coast, persists as a hidden treasure untouched by the throngs of tourist, even though it possesses all the hallmarks sought by travellers: captivating beaches, deep-seated history, and distinguished cuisine.
This location presents a departure from Amalfi’s rugged cliffs and dense tourist presence, offering instead a level promenade lined with sandy stretches and tranquil azure waters.
Set within the boundaries of Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, environmental conservancy measures are rigorously upheld, contributing to the maintenance of the locale’s esteemed Blue Flag beach status, reports the Express.
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Heather Green, Head of Product at travel specialist Citalia, has illuminated Santa Maria di Castellabate as a pristine haven, advocating for a visit in 2025 while it still eludes widespread notice.
She shared: “Famous for its hilltop towns, charming villages and breath-taking Blue Flag beaches, Santa Maria di Castellabate is a slow tourism destination with an appetite.”
The region is renowned for its authentic southern Italian fare, deeply rooted in the wholesome qualities of the Mediterranean diet. Heather said: “Known for enjoying a varied diet of fresh fish and seasonal ingredients, the region is home to a high percentage of centenarians.
“Sample local dishes such as fusilli cilentani (fusilli pasta and ragout) and mozzarella di bufala (buffalo mozzarella) and discover the hidden food secrets that are said to promote health and longevity.”
Santa Maria di Castellabate is one of Italy’s many hidden gems(Image: Getty)
Anchovies are a staple in the area’s cuisine, with markets and quaint family-owned trattorias offering up the day’s catch alongside vegetables cultivated in the surrounding hills. Though the town may be modest in size, its gastronomic renown is on the rise, thanks in part to the Michelin-starred Osteria 1861, housed in a historic residence from the same year.
Santa Maria di Castellabate is also conveniently situated for those looking to embark on cultural excursions, lying in proximity to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites. H
eather advised: “During your travels, be sure to visit the ancient Greek temples of Paestum and the stunning coastline of the National Park of Cilento.”
The well-preserved temples at Paestum rank among Europe’s finest, while the marine reserve at Punta Licosa offers serene walking paths and secluded bays.
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