Tranquil coastline, embodying the enchanting allure of the Amalfi Coast, devoid of the bustling masses.
In the coastal city of Salerno, overrun by tourists clamoring for the train to Naples, a lone platform waits for the regionale bound for Maratea. With just an elderly woman and a young family as fellow travelers, you embark on a journey that will take you away from the chaos of the Amalfi Coast and into an oasis of tranquility.
The two-hour ride down the Tyrrhenian coastline offers a panoramic display of jagged hills cloaked in verdant forests and shimmering coves. The journey's serene beauty is best appreciated from a window seat, where you can watch the laid-back vibe of the Basilicata region unfold.
A Calm Hideaway Unknown to Mass Tourism
The region of Basilicata, often overlooked by travelers, has managed to maintain a lower profile in the tourist sphere. It remains predominantly undeveloped and under-visited, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a respite from the crowds.
Maratea, nestled between Campania and Calabria, is no exception to this quiet charm. While its more famous neighbor, Matera, has recently gained notoriety as the European Capital of Culture, Maratea remains a breath of fresh air for those in-the-know.
Despite its lack of dramatic cliffs reminiscent of Positano, Maratea's coastline presents a much more secluded and less glamorous appeal – and we mean that in the best way possible. Spend your days lounging on natural terraces among the rocks, or dipping your toes in the crystal-clear waters at the pebble beach.
Indulging in Luxury without the Crowds
For those seeking a luxurious escape without the hefty price tags often associated with the Amalfi Coast, Hotel Santavenere is a dream come true. Opened in 1953, this delightful five-star resort has been a beacon of peace and tranquility for decades.
The hotel's serene atmosphere is evident in its electric golf buggies, natural pebble beach, and picturesque gardens that snakingly wind toward the sea. Each detail exudes an understated elegance that resonates with the tranquil vibe of the entire town.
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Maratea
A short trip from the hotel's hillside sanctuary lies Porto di Maratea, a quaint fishing village offering a delightful change of pace. Meander down the winding coastal road, where you'll find charming shops and inviting eateries nestled among the colorful houses peppering the landscape.
For true foodies, the Laterna Rossa offers a culinary adventure, with creative takes on local specialties that delight the senses. Don't miss the cannolo filled with raw prawns, ricotta mousse, and gazpacho or the pasta stuffed with catch of the day, local provola cheese, and lemon.
For a truly breath-taking experience, make the climb up to the 21-meter-high statue of Christ the Redeemer, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea from a hilltop vantage point. From here, take in the panoramic view of the coastline, mountains, and sea stretching out before you.
Embracing the Basilicata's Simple Delights
As you dine at Hotel Santavenere's terrace, sipping a refreshing spritz as the sun dips below the horizon, you'll find yourself surrounded by fragrant bougainvillaea, with each view more beautiful than the last.
Sample dishes like the raw amberjack with Lucanian black pig guanciale, or 'formaggio dei poveri,' fried and seasoned breadcrumbs known locally as the cheese of the poor. The cuisine here is rich, authentic, and reflective of the region's vibrant heritage, adding another layer to the already enchanting experience that is Maratea.
As the cicadas sing their evening symphony and the waves gently lap against the shore, you'll find yourself wondering why you ever bothered with the Amalfi Coast crowds in the first place.
In Maratea, a breath of fresh air for those in-the-know, luxury accommodations like Hotel Santavenere offer a tranquil escape from the Amalfi Coast hordes, providing an understated elegance that matches the calm vibe of the town. A short trip from the hotel takes you to Porto di Maratea, a quaint fishing village where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine such as the raw amberjack with Lucanian black pig guanciale or the pasta stuffed with catch of the day, offering a respite from the crowds and a taste of the Basilicata region's simple yet authentic delights.
