Ravello – what a sight for sore eyes. Hovering 350 m above the Amalfi coastline with incredible views of the blue Mediterranean, this town has attracted artist, writers and musicians for hundreds of years. Add to that people with a mission to create majestic gardens.
Ravello was founded in the 5th century as a shelter against barbaric invaders. Interest in making high-impact gardens did not really start to grow until the mid 19th century though. Today there are two must-see green spaces; Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
Villa Rufolo
Villa Rufolo dates back to the 13 the century and was then considered a most luxurious villa – VIPs were flocking to attend banquets and other fun. As time went past, it fell into disrepair, however. It didn’t receive a much required dose of TLC until 1851. Then Scottish botanist Sir Francis Neville Reid fell in love with the estate, bought it and then started making a wonderful garden.
Garden at villa Rufolo – Ravello
Pretty much right next door, you’ll find Villa Cimbrone. Although this property is older than Villa Rufolo, the garden, created in a nostalgic Renaissance flair, is only just over a hundred years old. It’s open to the public – the residence is a luxury hotel.
A scene at Villa Cimbrone, Ravello, Italy
There are other things to see and do when in Ravello, it has an artistic vibe about it. Just to emphasise though, if you want to visit the only way is up. Then down. Myself went up via bus, then took the steps down. Must have been a zillion of them. Some people say it’s a long way to the top. Equally could be said about reaching the bottom.
A scene at Villa Cimbrone, Ravello, Italy
A vineyard @ Ravello, Italy.
Villa Cimbrone
A scene at Villa Cimbrone, Ravello, Italy
