May 6 – 10 - We Head South

We leave Rome & head south through Frascati (had a walk through the narrow cobble stone streets & a coffee in the Piazza), Grottaferrata, Rocca di Papa (a fantastic looking town perched on a hill but bucketing with rain so drove on) to Castel Gandolfo on the banks of Lago Albano with beautiful views from our little terrace. Dinner at a little Pizzeria in a quaint little lane near the hotel.

Woods near Tusculum

Castel Gandolfo

We have been lost a few times in the narrow winding streets with lots of one-ways & dead ends. Even the GPS gets confused. All part of the fun?

Off to Lago di Nemi home of fragole (strawberries) where Anne enjoyed a gelati. What a beautiful area – a little like the Dandenongs without gum trees - but it bucketed with rain - then to Rocca Priora for another walk through the narrow streets. Then off to our B&B in the hills overlooking Formia & the sea. A lovely B&B with our hosts Franco & Sarah & their dogs & cats looking after us magnificently.

Anne on Terrace at B&B

Breakfast on the terrace admiring the view & practicing our Italian with Sarah. Into the chaos of Naples for a walking tour of the city – another amazing place. Then a very chaotic drive through the streets & suburbs of Naples before reaching the amazing winding roads (Great Ocean Road on steroids) leading to Positano & then Praiano where we will stay for 4 nights. Our terrace overlooks the Mediterranean towards Amalfi – just stunning.

View from Naples Port towards Mt Vesuvius

Positano to Praiano road.

After a rest day yesterday we are taking the bus to Positano & Sorrento for a better look at each – needed a break from driving. Sorrento is one of the most popular holiday destinations for the Brits – they were everywhere. Whilst being known as a beach resort, the beaches are pretty ordinary compared to Aus beaches – grey sand over river pebbles. Though to be fair the water was crystal clear. The town had a lovely relaxed feel & many & varied shops in the quaint little alleys & Piazza’s.

Positano is stunning – from the road in which is cut into the cliff face or hovering over space – to the buildings on the cliff faces, steep roads & stairways, grey pebble beach, shops, restaurants – it was vibrant yet relaxed. Dinner overlooking the beach & back to Praiano.

Positano from 'beach'.

Beach track at Positano

Overlooking Positano from roadside.