Sorrento & Amalfi Coast

Sorrento is a beautiful place to spend some time; known for its lemons and oranges, they are everywhere to see. Visiting in springtime is a great idea as all the blossom is on the trees and the weather is perfect for a warm Mediterranean break, without the crowds of the summer months.

Sorrento is easy to get around and quite compact, so it is well suited to those who are only here for a few days as you can really make the most of the place and see everything. It is a convenient base as there is so much to see in the area. There is a train station in Sorrento which can take you all the way to Naples, as well as stopping off at the major historic sites of Herculaneum and Pompeii. Train tickets are only a few euros each way, so good value for money. Or head up the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento for a day trip; all very easy to do.

I stayed at the De La Ville hotel in Sorrento, which is just a short walk from the centre of town, in a lovely location with great coastal views. I would highly recommend this hotel. Rooms are classically furnished using the inlaid wood which Sorrento is well known for. The hotel was spotless, and the room was very comfortable. I stayed on half board and there was a good selection of food which was served a la carte.

One of the reasons I wanted to come to Sorrento was to visit Herculaneum, which is around 40 minutes away by train. Having watched a documentary, I was hooked and wanted to see it for myself, and I'm pleased to say it didn't disappoint. We took the train from Sorrento station and found the site easily as it is well signposted. Spend a few hours here and soak up the atmosphere and history; you won't regret it. You can hire a guide to show you around or you can wander around at your own pace.

I took another trip from Sorrento, this time by coach, and visited the Amalfi Coastal towns of Amalfi, Positano and Ravello. The Amalfi Coast is known as the Divine Coast because of the views and I can honestly say they are spellbinding. I thoroughly admired the sea views as we journeyed along the winding road. Things to see and do include relaxing in Amalfi, spending time on the beach or having a long lunch in a trattoria. Climb to the top of the town of Ravello and enjoy the views - they are something to behold. The town of Positano has a great little beach and loads of lovely restaurants as well as art galleries, boutiques and gelaterias. Positano was everything I hoped it would be - glamorous, exclusive and picturesque.

I had a wonderful time and look forward to returning again one day.