9 Secrets of Southern Italy

We've all heard of Naples, the Isle of Capri and the Amalfi Coast . There are nine other wonders in Southern Italy though.

Few have ever heard of them. Fewer still have visited.

So grab your bucket list and prepare to add these remarkable places....

Matera

Matera

UNESCO World Heritage site and European Capital of Culture; there's so much that makes Matera unlike any other town you'll ever visit. The roads are on top of the houses, the houses look like part of the towering cliffs and the caves are homes. Here's more.

Procida

Procida Island

Cottages of peach and lemony shades, a little port filled with colorful fishing boats and friendly people who treat you like long lost family. From the moment you arrive you'll love this island near Naples and you'll regret leaving for the rest of your days. This is Procida - read our guide here.

Castelmezzano

Castelmezzano

Suspended between heaven and earth is the village of Castelmezzano. Enjoying dinner outside, on a balmy summer's evening, you'll feel that you are closer to the angels above than a part of earth. If you've got more courage than me you can complete the angel thing...with a trip on the Flight of Angels. I explain what I mean over on my Castelmezzano guide.

San Rocco

San Rocco - Sicily

San Rocco is a tiny Medieval hamlet, it lies on the periphery of  the town of Savoca where much of the Godfather movie was filmed. Once you enter this perfectly restored hamlet (now a hotel) it's as if you've stepped back in time to another world, another age. It's kind of hard to explain - you need to see for yourself. You can do that here.

Polignano

Polignano Cave Hotel - Click for More

A little coastal town that you can't help but love. You've narrow streets, lively squares and the deep blue seas off the Puglia coast. There are amazing caves here too -  one of them, in the sea-cliffs, is a superb restaurant. You dine in the softly lit lamplight with the sea crashing on the rocks below - here are the details.

Island of Ponza

Ponza

The island where Caesar Nero was exiled in Roman times. Nowadays a long period of exile here is something I would happily accept. It is unbelievably beautiful and locals call it the "Island of Love." Click to find out more.

Tropea

Tropea by Ingrid Bienias

Sadly, Tropea is a destination that is just too addictive. One visit is never enough. From friendly Calabrese locals, to spectacular scenery, to food you just can't stop eating... you'll love it! Here's more on this destination.

Castellabate

The old hill town of Castellabate is where I go to find complete peace and tranquility. There are few international tourists here and yet you have so much that is wonderful. Think cottages of golden stone, green rolling hills where lemons and olives grow, tiny village squares and seas of crystal clear Italian blue. Click to be tempted further.

San Vito lo Capo

Of all the beaches in Sicily this one is arguably the most beautiful. The sea is crystal clear, the sands cream colored and the scenery spectacular. Not only that but it lies on the edge of the most pristine coastline in all of Sicily - the Riserva dello Zingaro. For photos and info visit the Sicilian Beach Guide.

You'll Enjoy These...

• Things to Do in Bari & Reasons to Love Bari

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• War Memorials in Calabria

  In every town here in Calabria that I have seen, there is a Monumento ai Caduti. A monument to the fallen, their young men who gave their live-in two world wars.

• Summer in Italy... and Christmas too?

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• The Best Southern Italian Destinations

  South of Rome we go, taking you on a journey discovering the very best Southern Italian destinations. You may know of some of them but others I am sure you have never heard of.

• Positano on the Amalfi Coast

  Positano on the Amalfi Coast is one of the finest, prettiest places on earth. Its picturesque landscapes will remain with you long after you return home, always beckoning you back to La Dolce Vita.

• Photos of Positano, Amalfi and Venice

  Many of our Facebook fans share their photos with us. These galleries are dedicated to the best of them. Photos of Positano, the Amalfi Coast, Venice and much more.

• Matera - Ancient and Full of Life

  Once the shame of Italy and now one of her crown jewels. Matera is the original Italy, ancient beyond all other towns, another world. Prepare to be amazed, enchanted and beguiled...

• The Best Hotels in Cilento

  Looking for a bed and breakfast or hotels in Cilento? I particularly adore a delightful little bed and breakfast tucked away in one of the loveliest corners of the Cilento.

• Cilento Pictures & Holiday Guide

  These Cilento pictures capture a region that offers everything you could possibly wish for including majestic mountains, azure seas, ancient fishing towns,medieval villages and stunning beaches

• The Perfect Cilento Holiday

  Planning a Cilento Holiday? The Zizzania should be first on your list,.. coming here is like taking a journey back in time to when life was lived at a slower pace...best beaches in Cilento nearby

• An Insiders Guide to the Best Hotels on the Amalfi Coast

  Fragrance of jasmine & lemons in the air, colorful cottages tumble down to azure seas far below. This convent is the best hotel on the Amalfi coast...

• Discovered! The Best Beaches near Amalfi

  Stunning beaches sandwiched between towering cliffs and aquamarine seas. If you are looking for the best beaches near Amalfi or Positano here they are.

• You'll never Forget the Amalfi Coast!

  You may travel across the seven seas and visit continents near and far yet of all the world's beautiful places the Amalfi Coast is the one you'll never forget.

• Polignano, Matera and the Cave Hotel

  Polignano has to be one of Italy's best kept secrets. What an amazing little town and the restaurant in a cave is unforgettable. Then there is Matera where things get a little strange. Look at these photos...

• Civita di Bagnoregio

  The village where time has stood still. Not even a car is to be found in this medieval hilltop gem called Civita di Bagnoregio

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