Rebecca Whitlocke of Antibes Yachting says the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea and the sun-dappled vineyards of the Amalfi Coast are the perfect destinations for those seeking a natural, beautiful escape.
Known for its picturesque villages perched on cliff sides, fragrant lemon groves, and hairpin coastal roads, this region represents the essence of La Dolce Vita – Italy’s sweet life. Whether you are a discerning jet setter, part of a multigenerational family, or on a romantic getaway, southern Italy’s allure is undeniable.
Arriving in Style
The magic begins the moment you touch down. Naples, a city of vibrant contrasts, pulses with life and history. The chaos of the city fades into the background as you are whisked away to your awaiting yacht. For those desiring an even more dramatic entrance, private helicopter tours provide an unparalleled bird’s-eye view of the Amalfi Coast, adding an extra layer of luxury to your experience. L’Albatros, a 44-metre superyacht available for charter in August and September offers accommodation for up to 12 guests in 6 luxurious cabins. Onboard, large banquettes surround the sun deck Jacuzzi – the perfect spot to enjoy the Mediterranean unfolding before you like a postcard. Charter guests can enjoy a selection of water toys including jet skis, kayaks or paddle boards, or opt to watch the scenery pass by during aperture hour after a day of exploring.
From Vine to Table: A Feast for the Senses
As the sun dips below the horizon, a private villa comes to life. Inside, an expert chef prepares an unforgettable feast – a fusion of the finest local ingredients. The rich, sun-ripened vegetables, freshly harvested olives, and fragrant rosemary are transformed into a meal that not only delights the palate but tells the story of the region’s culinary heritage. Or, imagine enjoying dinner on a private yacht’s aft deck, savouring fresh scialattelli ai frutti di mare paired with chilled Falanghina wine. Or perhaps a secluded dinner in a hidden lemon grove, where each bite of food feels like a gift from the land? Whether it’s a bespoke wine tasting in an ancient vineyard or a farm-to-table meal with a view of the sea, every culinary experience is a synthesis of tradition, hospitality, and celebration.
An Odyssey Through Southern Italy’s Rich Heritage
The stories concealed behind medieval cathedrals, Renaissance palazzes, and busy piazzas are what make southern Italy so alluring, not simply its breathtaking scenery. Imagine exploring the ancient streets of Pompeii or Herculaneum with an expert archaeologist as your guide, uncovering hidden mosaics long untouched by time. At dusk, the ruins take on an entirely new atmosphere, away from the daytime crowds. For those seeking an authentic cultural experience, the Ravello Festival offers a chance to experience world-class classical and jazz performances in one of the most breathtaking locations. Nothing, according to Sorbillo, can adequately convey the emotional intensity of Ravello’s cliffside location situated high above the Mediterranean.
“Reservations at upscale restaurants as well as yacht charters require advance booking, and luxury concierge services are in high demand.” Lucia Sorbillo, Founder Soluce Luxury Yachts and Villas”
Living La Dolce Vita: A Lasting Journey
Luxury in southern Italy is not just about indulgence – it’s about rejuvenation. The Belmond Hotel Caruso, perched high above the Amalfi Coast, offers views so stunning they seem painted into the sky. Similarly, the Hotel Santa Caterina and Palazzo Margherita in Bernalda exude the timeless charm of Italian glamour, with ceiling murals and luxurious furnishings. For those seeking complete seclusion and tranquillity, Soluce can arrange a stay at a private villa where wellness becomes part of the experience. Picture this: waking to the sound of birdsong, followed by a personalised yoga session in a Renaissance garden or an energising massage administered by a skilled therapist on a sea-facing terrace adorned with pink bougainvillaea creeping along the balcony.
The feel of cool, hand-painted tiles beneath your feet, fresh-caught seafood, the quiet clink of glass as you sip local wine – it’s the rhythm of life that makes southern Italy so special, and that’s why you’ll come back. The greatest luxury is time, and living La Dolce Vita is not in grand gestures but in the small, everyday moments that make life memorable.
