Italy
Beyond the View: The Amalfi Coast and Sorrento
Program No. 18213RJ
Explore the ruins of Pompeii, enjoy a cooking class in Sorrento, see the gardens that inspired Wagner’s "Parsifal" and revel in the sites as you take a deeper look at the Amalfi Coast.
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13 days
12 nights
26 meals
11B 7L 8D
At a Glance
The cliff-top road along the Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches in the world, but this sun-kissed region has so much more to offer than just a scenic drive. Experience life in the artisan’s paradise of Sorrento and the tiny town of Minori, see the pride and skill that goes into intarsia woodworking and the making of the infused liqueur known as limoncello, and, yes, have your breath taken away as you drive and boat along the rugged coastline.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to four miles a day. Extended standing during site visits with limited or no public seating. Uneven terrain, limited public handrails, unavoidable stairs, marble and terracotta flooring, cobblestones, steep inclines, loose gravel, dirt paths. Elevator use is limited or restricted in historic sites. Expect crowded conditions in pedestrian centers and museums. Dress accordingly for visits to open-air archeological parks. Program-related travel and transfers will be via bus, boat, convertible, and funicular. Sheltered waiting areas may not be available at docks.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Appreciate the picture-postcard view of the houses and gardens clinging perilously to the cliffs via boat excursion along the Amalfi Coast.
- Investigate the lost cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum for frozen-in-time structures and valued artifacts.
- Step inside the famous Villa Rufolo with its perfect synthesis of Arabic, Sicilian and Norman architecture and lovely gardens that inspired Wagner as he penned "Parsifal."
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Jan Gilbert
Jan Gilbert has been coordinating Road Scholar programs in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast since 1990. A native English speaker, Jan has lived most of her adult life in the Sorrentine peninsula. She has the unique ability to present just enough facts of her beloved slice of Italy to Road Scholar explorers so they can make their own discoveries of the magnificent natural beauty and charm of people of the Amalfi Coast.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Jan Gilbert
View biography
Jan Gilbert has been coordinating Road Scholar programs in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast since 1990. A native English speaker, Jan has lived most of her adult life in the Sorrentine peninsula. She has the unique ability to present just enough facts of her beloved slice of Italy to Road Scholar explorers so they can make their own discoveries of the magnificent natural beauty and charm of people of the Amalfi Coast.
Linda O'Brien
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Linda O'Brien taught art history for the European Division of the University of Maryland and lectures in Road Scholar programs in Florence and Sorrento. She began her undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, and then moved to Brussels, Belgium to continue her studies. She was awarded an advanced degree in art history and archaeology with honors from the Université Libre de Bruxelles. She completed post-graduate work in symbolic anthropology at Stanford University and the Sorbonne.
Michela Porcelli
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Michela Porcelli was awarded an advanced degree in linguistic anthropology from the University of Naples. Fluent in English, Swedish, Spanish and French, Michela studied in the U.S. at the University of California Santa Barbara. Currently, she lives in Naples where she is involved in several research projects in linguistics at the university there.
Vincenzo Coppola
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Vincenzo Coppola is an ethnomusicologist and licensed guide for the Amalfi Coast area. He has a passion for music in the Neapolitan tradition. A lecturer at Naples University and Conservatory of Music, his seminars include Opera and Oriental Traits in Neapolitan popular music and the Japanese Theater of Noh.
Michelle Bassett
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Michelle Bassett was born in England and has spent most of her adult life there. She has a degree in applied social science from the Open University and is a qualified human resources professional. In 2011, Michelle moved to Italy and began working as a group manager and event planner. She and her husband live on a small farm near Sorrento with olive and lemon groves, a vegetable garden, and a dog. Michelle enjoys working on the farm, running, and reading.
Enrica Guida
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Enrica Guida studied at a classical lyceum and earned a degree in Political Science and Economy with honors from the University of Naples. She honed her English language skills at Cambridge University, England, and is also fluent in French and Spanish. She continued studies in Greek and Roman history, archaeology of Magna Grecia, and Pompeian antiquities at the University of Naples. She is a member of the Amici di Pompeii Association. Licensed by the Region of Campania, Enrica loves sharing the region’s history and culture.
Enzo Mangini
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Enzo Mangini was born and raised in Calabria in southern Italy. He moved to Perugia for college and graduated in political sciences with a major in history of the Mediterranean. He then moved to Rome to attend the LUISS School of Journalism. After 15 years as a professional journalist, Enzo decided to change careers and became an exploration leader. Enzo, his wife Federica, and daughter Frida live in a small town between Rome and Naples.
Sabina Gargiulo
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Sabina Gargiulo resides in Piano di Sorrento, and is a licensed regional guide specializing in the Campania region. Holding a degree in law from the esteemed Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Sabina possesses a diverse professional background encompassing legal consultancy, sales management, and event coordination. Her profound love for exploration and adventure fuels her passion for travel, with a particular focus on unraveling the rich tapestry of history, art, and culture that Campania has to offer. Sabina speaks Italian, English, Spanish, and French.
Ilaria Flore
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Ilaria Fiore, a native of Naples, holds a degree in classical literature and archaeology. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued further specialization in archaeology at the School of Specialization in Rome. Ilaria undertook internships in museology and earned a master's in digital technologies applied to cultural heritage. With a rich background in fieldwork across Italy and Egypt, she contributed to various scientific publications. Transitioning to the travel sector, Ilaria serves as a licensed excursion leader and archaeologist in Campania while engaging in school educational initiatives.
Suggested Reading List
(10 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Beyond the View: The Amalfi Coast and Sorrento
Program Number: 18213
Blue Guide Southern Italy
"Blue Guide Southern Italy" offers an in-depth exploration of the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes found in the southern regions of Italy. This comprehensive travel guide provides detailed information on historical sites, art, architecture, and archaeological treasures. Whether you're planning to visit the historic cities of Naples and Palermo, discover the ancient ruins of Pompeii, or explore the picturesque villages along the Amalfi Coast, this guide is your invaluable companion.
Pompeii
In Robert Harris's historical thriller "Pompeii," the ancient city is both a captivating backdrop and an impending cataclysmic force. Set in the year 79 CE, the novel follows the life of Marcus Attilius, an aqueduct engineer tasked with maintaining the vital water supply to the city. As Attilius investigates mysterious disruptions in the aqueduct, he stumbles upon ominous signs of imminent disaster, including strange animal behavior and tremors. The novel weaves through the lives of other Pompeii residents, from a wealthy businessman to a rebellious enslaved person, all unaware of the impending eruption of Mount Vesuvius that will ultimately engulf their world. Harris masterfully combines historical accuracy with suspenseful storytelling, building a palpable sense of dread as the volcano's eruption draws near. "Pompeii" is a gripping tale of survival and catastrophe, offering readers a vivid glimpse into the lives of those caught in the devastating path of nature's fury.
The Talented Mr Ripley
"The Talented Mr. Ripley" by Patricia Highsmith is a psychological thriller that introduces readers to the enigmatic and morally ambiguous character of Tom Ripley. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Europe, the novel follows Tom's journey from a struggling and fraudulent identity to becoming a masterful manipulator and imposter. When he is given the opportunity to travel to Italy to convince a wealthy industrialist's son, Dickie Greenleaf, to return to the United States, Tom seizes the chance to escape his mundane life. However, his fixation on Dickie and his desire to inhabit the world of the rich lead him down a dark path of deception, crime, and murder. Highsmith's skillful exploration of Tom's complex psyche and the moral ambiguity surrounding his actions makes "The Talented Mr. Ripley" a compelling and chilling exploration of the human capacity for duplicity and obsession.
Incontinent on the Continent: My Mother, Her Walker, and Our Grand Tour of Italy
"Incontinent on the Continent: My Mother, Her Walker, and Our Grand Tour of Italy" is a humorous and heartwarming memoir that chronicles the author's unforgettable journey through Italy with her elderly mother and her trusty walker. In this delightful travelogue, Christmas shares their misadventures, touching moments, and the challenges they face as they navigate Italy's beautiful yet sometimes challenging terrain. Along the way, they encounter colorful characters, savor delicious Italian cuisine, and explore the country's rich cultural heritage. With wit and candor, Christmas's storytelling captures the essence of a mother-daughter bond and the transformative power of travel. This book is a charming and relatable tale for anyone who has embarked on an adventure with a loved one, especially in the backdrop of a captivating destination like Italy.
My Brilliant Friend
"My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante is a gripping and evocative novel that delves into the intense and complex friendship between two girls, Elena and Lila, in post-war Naples, Italy. Set against a backdrop of poverty, violence, and societal constraints, the story follows the intertwined lives of these two young girls as they navigate the challenges of their neighborhood and strive for a better future. The novel vividly depicts their friendship, filled with loyalty, rivalry, and a deep connection that transcends their obstacles. As Elena and Lila grow into adolescence and adulthood, their paths diverge, leading them on separate journeys of self-discovery and ambition. Ferrante's writing is rich and immersive, drawing readers into the vividly portrayed world of Naples and the intricacies of the characters' lives. "My Brilliant Friend" is the first installment in a compelling four-book series that explores the complexities of friendship, identity, and the enduring impact of one's origins.
Art in Renaissance Italy
A comprehensive and insightful exploration of the art and culture that defined the Italian Renaissance. The book provides a rich and detailed overview of the period from the 13th to the 16th century, during which Italy witnessed a flourishing artistic achievement. Readers are guided through the major artistic centers of the Renaissance, including Florence, Rome, Venice, and Siena, as they delve into the works of renowned artists such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raphael. The authors offer a deep analysis of the various artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and decorative arts, while delving into the social, political, and religious contexts that shaped this remarkable period.
The Normans: A History of Conquest
Rowley delves into the origins of the Normans in the Viking age, their migration to Normandy, and their subsequent expansion into England, Sicily, and other territories. He explores the Norman military prowess, political strategies, and cultural contributions, shedding light on their influence in shaping the medieval world. With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Rowley offers readers an in-depth look at the Norman legacy and their enduring impact on Europe's history and culture. This book is a valuable resource for those interested in medieval history and the multifaceted achievements of the Normans.
Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes
"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton is a captivating journey into the world of ancient myths. With eloquence and scholarly insight, Hamilton brings to life the timeless tales of gods and heroes from Greek and Roman mythology. From the creation of the world to the heroic deeds of Hercules, the tragic love of Orpheus and Eurydice, and the epic adventures of Odysseus, this book offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the myths that have shaped Western literature and culture. Hamilton's storytelling prowess and deep understanding of mythology make this book an enduring classic, making these ancient stories accessible and relevant for modern readers.
The Wolf Den
"The Wolf Den" is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to the heart of ancient Pompeii. The story revolves around Amara, a young enslaved person who finds herself at the Wolf Den, a bustling and secretive brothel in the city, after enduring a tragic past. The novel vividly portrays the daily life of Pompeii's diverse inhabitants, from the opulent elite to the struggling underclass, all against the backdrop of impending disaster as Mount Vesuvius threatens to erupt. Amara's journey is one of resilience, survival, and empowerment as she navigates the complex relationships and intrigues of the Wolf Den while seeking a path to freedom. Harper's meticulous research and evocative storytelling make "The Wolf Den" a compelling and immersive read.
In the Shadow of Vesuvius
This cultural history delves into the rich tapestry of Naples, from its ancient origins to its vibrant and complex present. Lancaster takes readers on a journey through the city's art, architecture, music, and folklore, uncovering the layers of influence from various civilizations that have left their mark on Naples. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the city's unique character, the book provides a vivid and comprehensive portrait of Naples, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of this enchanting Italian city.