Trentinara

Called "the balcony of the Cilento" you can expect grand views surrounded by natural beauty in this high hill town. Located above Paestum - Capaccio, the panoramic piazza gives a sweeping view of the Gulf of Salerno and the coastal territory. The setting was strategic for the Romans, who probably named it for a military measuring of the area, that dominated the gorge of Tremonti and looked at the vast Paestum plains below.

In the Middle Ages it was the feudal holding of the counts of Capaccio, and then went through many lords' hands, the noble families of the Neapolitan zone - Sanseverino, Caracciolo and de Angelis, to name a few of the most prominent.

The town keeps its medieval footprint, laid out like a fan. The ancient city gate Porta Soprana leads to the maze of streets, the via Castello once led to a dominating castle, long gone, it's memory retained only the street name. Wander the streets and enjoy the hill town atmosphere. There are shops and cafes along the way, and churches with astonishing artwork for a small country town. The church of St. Nicholas and the 12th century church of Rosario are especially interesting to see. The Via dell'Amore is a charming lane to walk (see separate article).

But the main attraction is the panorama - that terrace that gives a breathtaking view is worth the drive uphill! The gulf, the plains, the archeology site of Paestum, the Amalfi Coast and sea as far as Capri are all in view. If you're more adventurous, you can fly the zip line, called Cilento in Volo, that will more literally take your breath away!. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, paths lead to Mt Vesole. From there you can enjoy a view of the entire scope of the Cilento park - the vast expanse of mountains and hills and sea all at once.

If you're in Trentinara in August, be sure to partake in the tasty and fun Festa del Pane (bread festival).