Standing on a rocky promontory that once housed the ruins of a Roman villa, the historic Villa Cimbrone boasts one of the most spectacular views of the entire Amalfi Coast.
Located in picturesque Ravello, the villa can be reached on foot from the center of town in a few minutes.
The villa was once a noble residence, but fell into disrepair for centuries, until a wealthy British banker bought and restored it. Today, it houses a five-star hotel, Hotel Villa Cimbrone. But while the villa is private property, its beautiful gardens are open to the public (€7 entrance fee) and are one of the highlights of a visit to Ravello (and the Amalfi Coast).
The main path inside the property is called ‘Viale dell’Immenso’ and leads through the splendid park and gardens, where you can admire small temples, a pergola decorated with wisteria and beautiful statues, such as the Statue of Ceres and the Statue of David, a copy of the famous sculpture by Donatello. In spring, when flowers bloom all around, it all looks even more splendid.
At the end of the path, you will reach the famous viewpoint, one of the best of the Amalfi Coast. It is called the ‘Terrace of Infinity’, because it will feel like you are staring into the infinte, as your gaze gets lost in the blue waters of the Mediterranean below, as you find yourself 350 meters above the sea. Look out over the railing richly decorated with a series of marble busts and pause for a moment, in silence, to admire the perfect view over the Gulf of Salerno. It will fill you whole.
