Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Grotta Azzurra
Although it doesn't have the hype of its Capri counterpart, Palinuro's Grotta Azzurra is
similarly spectacular, with a technicolour play of light and hue. It owes its name to the ex-
traordinary effect produced by the sunlight that filters inside from an underground passage
lying at a depth of about 8m. The best time to visit is the afternoon, due to the position of
the sun.
Several boat companies operate out of kiosks on the harbour front, including
Da Aless-
andro
( 347 6540931;
www.costieradelcilento.it
;
trips from €12)
, which will take you
to the Blue Grotto as well as four other caves in the area.
GROTTO
Eating & Drinking
CAMPANIAN
Ristorante da Isadora €
( 0974 93 10 43; Via Indipendenza 156; meals €20, pizzas from €3.50; Mar-Oct)
One of the consistently good restaurants here, with a large terrace and a down-to-earth in-
terior, complete with TV in the corner. The ample menu includes the highly recommended
speciality
vicciatella della nonna
(mixed seasonal vegetables including tomatoes, carrots,
aubergine, peppers and green beans, with fried bread and additional options like smoked
cheese, eggs or octopus).
There are also good pizzas and risottos. The house wine is perfectly drinkable and, if
you're in grappa mode, there is an excellent choice.
Ristorante Miramare €€
( 0974 93 09 70; Corso Pisacane 89; meals from €28)
Enjoying a supreme position,
with a broad terrace overlooking the turquoise sea and small adjacent sandy cove, this
place is part of the same-name hotel. The menu is predominantly seafood based and holds
few surprises, although there is the odd nod to the international palate, including roast
beef (what, no Yorkshire pud!). Otherwise
spaghetti alla vongole
is a safe bet.
SEAFOOD
Pasticceria Egidio €
( 0974 93 14 60; Via Santa Maria 15; sfogliatelle €1.50)
Run by the reassuringly
plump Egidio family, this
pasticceria
has a cake display cabinet backed by the large
bakery where breads (including
integrale
) arrive steaming hot for picnic time. The cakes
PASTICCERIA
