Positano
During the summer I spent a couple of days in the Italian town of Positano. Although I had seen photographs of the place, there is nothing that prepares you for the magnificence that is the Amalfi Coast. Built into the cliffside, the town is like a stadium, with houses akin to seating, each row positioned on the one below, all the way to the top. I was fortunate to be staying about halfway up, with a clear view of the ocean from the hotel terrace. From this vantage point I could see the one road coming into town, parts of which appeared to be simply slotted into the side of the mountain and held up at intervals by supports attached to the cliff face. I can’t imagine how they set about doing this and it’s quite a feat of engineering.
My breakfast typically lasts a few minutes so it was a welcome change to be able to spend two hours on the terrace, with the town behind me and the sea in front, the sun blazing down and excellent coffee to hand. Rather than people watch, boat watching kept me occupied, and to be honest I could have sat there all day. However, at the foot of the town is the beach known as Spiaggia Grande, which is an ideal spot to chill out with a few beers and with the main historical highlight, the majolica-domed church of Santa Maria Assunta, I had a good incentive to go and explore.
I’ve spent a good deal of time on boats this summer, and was fortunate to be on another one to take in some of the highlights of the coast. I would recommend doing so as it provides a different perspective on the town, allowing you to step back as it were and marvel that anyone thought a community could be built in such a dramatic but ultimately beautiful location. As if the view wasn’t enough, the owner of the boat, produced an accordion and sang some classic Italian songs as the light began to fade. Such moments stay with you forever.
In the evening, the town takes on a magical quality of a different hue, as the sun sets and the lights come on. I’ve seen many photogenic places, but Positano is easily in my top ten. I was even treated to a red moon, and managed to take several decent pictures as it rose over the sea, reverting back to an icy white. At home I have an excellent view of the moon, but to see the moonlight extend across the sea towards you is quite something. Another moment among many that will stay with me.