Today the Amalfi Drive is believed to be the most scenic and spectacular road in Europe, known throughout the world for its sheer beauty and breathtaking views. Officially known as Strada Statale 163, or SS 163 Amalfitana, the Amalfi Drive is also called the Costiera Amalfitana (Amalfi Coast) Road.
Enjoy this excerpt from Chapter 15 ~ I Drove on the Amalfi Coast
Originally built by the Romans, the two-lane asphalt road is five meters wide. Hugging the coast, the serpentine motorway connects the seaside towns of the Amalfi Coast. Part of the road runs along the sea, as in Maiori, and other sections precariously hug the sea cliff edge hundreds of meters above the shoreline.
Since it was built at such a steep angle, the road zigzags back and forth, with railings only at certain places, contributing to the white-knuckle driving experience. And yes, I am going to drive it. Round convex mirrors are installed at some of the hairpin turns so drivers can see around the bend ahead. Am I scared? No, but I’m cautious.
I recall reading horror stories of travelers who became dizzy and nauseated riding the SITA bus along this stretch of road. I’m not prone to vertigo or dizziness, so my past experiences on the bus rides were good. I also recall saying that I’d never attempt to drive this road myself, but life is full of changes, and this is the year I’m taking on the challenge. I’m driving the Amalfi Coast Road, and I’m kind of excited.
With its high cliffs and rock formations all the way down to the sea, the Amalfi Coast exudes majesty and magnificence. I’m beginning to think this has to be my favorite spot in Italy. Once I drive past the town of Vietri sul Mare, I see a place where I’m able to pull off the road to park, so I can capture a photo of this lovely place far below.
The natural lighting this morning is radiant and I’m pleased. While Sue waits in the car for me, I compose what I perceive to be a perfect image and shoot just two photos, satisfied with this digital souvenir from Vietri. In less than five minutes, I return to the car and continue to drive in the direction of Maiori.
Readers often tell me they wish I included photos in my books. The reason I don’t…photographs typically do not show up well in paperback books. So now I’ve decided to post some excerpts and the accompanying Amalfi Coast photos to match. Enjoy.
From My Amalfi Coast Love Affair
Enjoy an excerpt from Chapter 15 ~ I Drove on the Amalfi Coast
My Amalfi Coast Love Affair
is available in digital, paperback, and now audiobook.
Click to purchase.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, so please leave me a comment. Grazie.
karenincalabria
Nice! I’ve enjoyed the view from bus windows, but haven’t ever driven it myself. I’ve driven the small stretch of windy coast in the short stretch of its continuation in Basilicata and that was hair-raising enough with fewer vehicles crawling up on my bumper and speeding past in one direction or the other.
margieinitaly
Grazie, Karen. I agree driving in Italy can be a hair-raising event….The autostradas always seem to be under construction, especially in the south.
Bonnie Davis
If wishes were horses who wouldn’t ride all the way to the Amalfi coast? What a beautiful place to call home.
margieinitaly
Thanks Bonnie. I love this analogy.