Cilento Coast
Explore Cilento, a coastal paradise in Italy just a few kilometers from Salerno, known for its stunning unspoiled beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural heritage. Discover trekking routes in the Cilento National Park, local culinary traditions, and historic villages like Castellabate and Acciaroli.
The Main Towns of Cilento
Cilento is an area of great beauty and natural diversity, with cities rich in tradition and history.
Between Agropoli and the city of Sapri, the towns of Cilento follow one after another, each with its own characteristics and peculiarities. Let's discover what the main ones are.
Palinuro
Palinuro is the town of myth, the Natural Arch, and the most visited sea caves in Cilento.
Acciaroli
Ancient fishing village that captivated Ernest Hemingway and the homeland of the Mediterranean Diet.
Marina di Camerota
Untouched beaches, wild nature, natural marine caves, and ancient culinary traditions.
The Cilento covers an area of over 3,000 km², stretching from the city of Paestum in the north to Sapri in the south. The vastness of the territory has led to the development of numerous villages, each with its own identity and traditions, despite their proximity to one another.
Among the other main cities to visit in Cilento, we find: Agropoli, Castellabate, Vallo della Lucania, Sapri, Scario, Policastro Bussentino, and Ascea.
Main attractions in Cilento
Where to stay in Cilento
The Cilento, a region of extraordinary beauty, covers about 2,200 square kilometers and includes a 100-kilometer coastline that stretches from Agropoli to Sapri. Choosing the ideal place to stay in Cilento is essential to fully enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of this area.
The choice of accommodation should depend on the area you wish to explore, whether it’s the beautiful beaches along the Cilento coast or the enchanting interior. Cilento offers a wide range of options, from elegant hotels and charming bed & breakfast to traditional farms and holiday homes immersed in nature.
In this guide, we will present the best areas to stay and accommodation options that suit every budget and preference, so you can experience an unforgettable stay in the heart of Cilento.
Here are the best areas to stay in Cilento based on your needs, itineraries, and interests:
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Budget-friendly: The best areas in Cilento to stay without spending much are definitely the inland regions, a few kilometers from the coast, which offer an excellent combination of natural beauty and affordable accommodations. Staying inland allows you to enjoy tranquility and local culture while remaining close to the beautiful beaches of Cilento.
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Family-friendly: If you are looking for a wide sandy beach and a peaceful environment where you can let your children play, then Ascea and Palinuro are ideal.
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Trekking: If you want to stay in Cilento to practice trekking, there are several ideal areas that offer access to scenic trails and breathtaking landscapes. Certainly, the best location is Vallo della Lucania.
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Strategic areas: For those with a car or who need to move to nearby areas to visit the main attractions, we highly recommend Sapri or Palinuro, cities well-connected by train and bus to the rest of the Cilento towns.
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Luxury: If you are looking for where to sleep in luxury accommodations in Cilento, consider the Best Western Hotel La Conchiglia in Palinuro, which offers elegant rooms and breathtaking views of the coast. Another option is Palazzo Belmonte in Santa Maria di Castellabate, an ancient palace transformed into a hotel, perfect for an exclusive stay. Finally, Borgo La Pietraia in Paestum is ideal for those seeking privacy and comfort immersed in nature. These establishments offer a unique stay experience, combining luxury and the natural beauty of Cilento.
How to reach the Cilento
The Cilento has a vast expanse, so depending on where you are headed, distances may be shortened or lengthened. Let's see how to reach its main cities: Agropoli, Santa Maria di Castellabate, and Palinuro from Salerno:
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To reach Agropoli coming from Salerno, you can exit the A2 motorway towards Reggio Calabria at the Agropoli exit and then continue on the SS18 until the Agropoli Sud exit.
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To reach Santa Maria di Castellabate coming from Salerno, you can exit the A2 motorway towards Reggio Calabria at the Agropoli exit and then continue on the SS18 until the Agropoli Sud exit, after which follow the signs for Castellabate.
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To reach Palinuro coming from Salerno, you can exit the A2 motorway towards Reggio Calabria at the Buonabitacolo exit, then proceed on the SS517 until Policastro Bussentino, and then take the SS18 towards Poderia, continuing towards Palinuro on the SR562.
Why you should visit the Cilento Coast
Visiting Cilento offers a unique combination of breathtaking natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are some compelling reasons to explore this beautiful area:
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Natural Beauty: The Cilento National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts enchanting views, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous hiking trails. The unspoiled beaches along the coast, such as those in Palinuro and Castellabate, are perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
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Cultural Heritage: Cilento is home to ancient ruins, including the archaeological sites of Paestum, famous for their well-preserved Greek temples. The characteristic villages, like Velia and Acciaroli, provide a glimpse into traditional Italian life, complemented by local festivals and craftsmanship.
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Culinary Delights: Cilento is known for its Mediterranean cuisine and is the birthplace of the Mediterranean Diet, characterized by fresh, local foods such as olive oil, vegetables, grains, legumes, and delicious cheeses. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the renowned buffalo mozzarella and local wines.
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Adventure Opportunities: From hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and snorkeling along the coast, Cilento is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.
In summary, whether you are looking for beach relaxation, cultural experiences, or outdoor activities, Cilento has something to offer everyone.
Cilento and surrounding
