Minori Holidays

This cosy town can be found on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Back in Roman times, it attracted noble sorts, who were drawn to its rugged charms – building luxury holiday homes here. Today, there’s still an unspoilt character to the place. For starters, one of these ancient villas is still standing. And the rest of the town is just as picturesque – snake-like lanes lead down to a pastel-tinted seafront promenade.

In true Italian style, Minori’s houses are dotted about the valley, with some perched right on top of its lemon tree-covered cliffs. Away from the terraced hills, dark-golden sands gently shelve into the turquoise sea. The town faces south, so the beach and palm-lined street behind it are both bathed in sun for most of the day. Plus, there are waterside pastry shops on standby for mid-afternoon snacks.

Minori’s famous Villa Romana is a must-see site. It was built by members of the aristocracy before the Vesuvius eruption, and some of the best-preserved parts include tunnels and a mosaic of a bull. The town’s also a good starting point for trips along the coast. Take a drive south, and you’ll reach Amalfi in 10 minutes. Positano – the coast’s crowning glory – can be reached in less than an hour.