Cilento: from the Latin Cis Alentum, ” on this side of the Alento River.” A land of flavors, natural beauty and culture that due to its difficult access and little publicity has preserved its virtually untouched beauty better than other places. However, in recent years, the rediscovery for natural paradises, the newfound need for contact with nature, and the desire to rediscover oneself by living even slower rhythms than those imposed by the society of our days has caused this destination to suddenly become a place of increasing attraction for tourists from all over the world. It is no coincidence, for example, that a newspaper of the caliber of Forbes recommends it by comparing it to the much better-known Amalfi Coast, moreover, the very famous Lonely Planet guide provides in this article 5 very good reasons to visit Cilento( one above all its beautiful beaches that from Ascea to descending the coast gradually become more beautiful and fascinating). One example is the beautiful beach of Marinella in Palinuro an enchantment easily reached from every seaside village in Cilento that will leave you breathless.
Moreover the deep blue Gulf of Policastro sea dominated by the view of the mountains towering several hundred meters directly above the sea will amaze every visitors. A view that is particularly appreciated from the lively little village of Villammare.
The Gulf of Policastro is particularly expressive of the variety of Cilento landscapes. In fact, heavenly beaches are complemented by numerous trekking trails that are less known than the most popular ( for example, the path of the gods) but no less beautiful. Our favorite is undoubtedly the path appreciate me the donkey. Already the history is interesting in fact, at the beginning of the 20th century, the coastal path was the only link between Sapri and Maratea, playing a key role in the exchange of goods carried by donkeys. This coastal route was crucial for the movement of goods between the two localities, using donkeys as the main means of transportation. In the circumstance when two donkeys crossed each other at such locations, a comparative evaluation of the animals and their cargoes was made. Then, in exchange for half the value of the donkey deemed less valuable, the latter would be deliberately dropped into the sea. Beyond the history and interest, the trail possesses a special beauty with paths surrounded by greenery and overhanging views of the sea, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful with respect to the fame/beauty ratio.
If natural beauty is undoubtedly the order of the day in a place as unspoiled as the Cilento, certainly the same can be said of culture. Indeed, this area is home to rare gems dating back to different historical eras. Undoubtedly Paestum and Elea(Ascea) stand out for the charm of the Greek and Lucanian past(but not only) and for the incredible state of preservation of the works. These places perfectly hint at what is the past of these places that has so much influenced their culture and people.
For more information on excursions, cultural sites and religious pilgrimages click here and you will find all the information you are looking for.
Cilento to finish is the home of good food! From the lagane e ceci di cicerale(a typical format of pasta seasoned precisely with excellent chickpeas, a local specialty), to the famous fusillo felittese, passing by the caciocavallo impiccato( because it is cooked by hanging precisely while a flame gently liquefies it) to the very famous mozzarella (which in the Cilento and north of it hosts the best variants in Italy) the choice is endless.
In short, there is something for everyone. Cilento is a paradise that is always ready to welcome those who know it and to amaze those who have never yet seen it.