Spring in Sorrento

I’ve just come back from four stunning days in Sorrento, nestled along the Amalfi coast on Italy’s stunning coastline, this little gem of a town is the perfect short break in Spring. Without the hustle and bustle of the Summer months (where I imagine pools, bars and restaurants are brimming with tourists) in April Sorrento is a sleepy Italian hideaway, where the sun kissed squares are the perfect place for a relaxed evening drink and the orange and lemon trees famed in the area are in fruit. Throw in a balmy 23-27 degrees and you can see why I fell in love with Sorrento, here are my top tips for a beautiful romantic long weekend in Italy…

STAY in The Grand Hotel Capodimente. The hotel is built into the cliffs with an elevator taking you from the entrance up to the grand reception. I loved the Mediterranean tiles, the five waterfall infinity pools and the breath-taking views over Sorrento, the sea and Mount Vesuvius. It’s a five minute walk in to town and the breakfast served in a grand hall was delicious – including prosecco! The stylish interior has a ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ vibe, both lavish and coolly understated, relaxing, nautical and chic.

TRY The Vermentino. Not a specific wine of the region but it’s a light, crisp delicious Italian perfect for a light bite. Limoncello, made locally from their giant fresh lemons is the perfect digestif and if you’re an Espresso Martini fan then this is the place to have them, Italian’s are famous for their coffee for a reason.

WEAR flat shoes. Taxis are expensive (not to mention a little terrifying!) and Sorrento is relatively small, so take flat shoes for the day for exploring and incorporate flat shoes into your evening outfits, they’re an unnecessary expense and some of our favourite finds were on leisurely walks. While it can be hot in the day it does cool down in the evenings, so take light jackets and trousers or maxis so you can enjoy alfresco dining.

SEE I love people watching and pottering around on holiday with no real tourist destination in mind and Sorrento was absolutely perfect for that. Side streets, sunny balconies and terracotta buildings are what I idolise when I’m away, so take to the streets, have a wonder and take it all in.

PLAN your flight times, it isn’t cheap to get from Sorrento to Naples airport when your only option is a taxi. There are buses, trains and hydrofoils for a fraction of the price, but they all run between about 6am and 7pm so try to get a flight that lands you in plenty of time.

GO to Capri on a day trip. Steeped in mythology (this is where Odysseus narrowly escaped the charms of the sirens) and a muse for writers, poets and artists this stunning island is renowned for it’s bright beachfront marina and turquoise seas.

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