We have tried to be flexible and have rebooked several of our accomodations as we prefer to stay out of the cities unless it is a must see. Originally we were going to go to Napoli – but we decided it wasn’t a ‘must see’ – we are so glad we did.
AGROPOLI
Agropoli is a small town/ village that the local Italians go to for holiday – they stay clear of the Amalfi coast (where we are headed next). We had to park the car high up on a windy road in a public carpark next to a picturesque castle. From there, we had to take our bags through the pedestrian only historic old town to our accommodation (and 6 flights of stairs). But it was so worth it. The apartment had jaw dropping views over the Mediterranean sea and you could see the Amalfi coast in the distance. The main town was down an old wide staircase. We savoured the little things when walking around the town – the statues, the way the light played, the ruins and of course, the view.
Our first full day we decided to do a walk to one of the far points we could see in the distance. It was certainly a trek and a half (14km long and over 100 flights of stairs) – we started by exploring the dock at the base of the town and marvelled at the fishing boats. We then started our climb. We passed confused sheep, walked through thick mud, scaled steep paths, searched for non-existent trails, marvelled at the views, gawped at ruined buildings that barely clung to the escarpment, sweated and generally had great fun. When we got back to the town Rob spotted the only pizza place open (Saturday and Sunday pretty much everything is closed – luckily we bought food when we arrived Friday night) – and what a serendipitous find it was – great red beer, awesome pizza, amazing chips and a heavenly dessert to finish. The only downside was that we had to stagger back up the steps to our apartment (and Kim did stagger and sway!)
PAESTUM
On Day 2 in Agropoli we decided to make use of the car and travel the short distance to the town of Paestum (about 20 minutes away). This town is famous because almost 3000 years ago it was settled by the Greeks who, over time, built a town with many temples. The Romans conquered it about 100BC and added a bit, but soon after, it became riddled with malaria and was abandoned for almost 1000 years. The result? Some amazing ruined (and some fairly intact) Greek temples. Such a jaw dropping experience – and you could walk through the historic temples too and take your time. Rain had been predicted but it was a sunny day, with hardly anyone else around. It was a great few hours walking back into history. No need to go to Greece as we had it all here – even the beach was less than 1km away.
Tomorrow we are off to the Amalfi coast and our thoughts are with our colleagues who start their Pupil Free Week tomorrow – we hope you all have an amazing Term One!
View from our apartment!
Kim and Rob, loving your blog! Not sure about the pick pocketing or the busy, dangerous roads to drive on. You are very brave – stay safe. Day one at school was good, great speaker and so good to catch up with everyone after our wonderful Christmas break! xx
Hi Maureen. Hope you guys enjoyed your Xmas and New Year. Hope your term 1 will be good
Wow you two have had it all haven’t you, first Robs credit card and then pick pockets, hope you don’t have to much bother replacing cards etc. Love the photos of the ruins and especially the views from your apartment. Big kahunas Rob driving around those roads and the conditions, take care and keep the piccy’s and comments coming, looks like yummy food, back to school today to complete our term cleans before class party’s on thursday.
Hey guys. Yes – it has been an adventure – you should see the roads here on the Amalfi Coast! Hope you guys had a restful break
Your photos are amazing. You have found the Parthenon in Italy! Loved seeing the Gaudi buildings- lovely memories.
School has started well. Put some info into GECO today. You would be proud of us! All it needs now is children. Don’t worry about us! Enjoy your wonderful travels and stay safe!
Xx