Foodie Fun in Campania

| Fri, 07/17/2009 - 04:04

Continuing her short series of articles, Germaine Stafford suggests ten fun ways to enjoy this region famous for its gastronomy

1. Spend a weedend at Positano's Hotel San Pietro

Soak yourself in the timeless beauty of this jewel of a hotel, set in one of the world鈥檚 most stunning locations. Chef Alois Vanlangenaeker will ensure that dinner enjoyed on the hotel鈥檚 famous terrace will be an event to remember. (Via Laurito, 2 (+39) 089 875 455 ).

2. Be a beach bum

Arm yourself with some eggs and potatoes and head across Ischiato the pretty thermal beach at La Baia di Sorgeto. Pop your provisions into one of the steaming 90掳C pools near the shore and enjoy a mud treatment while lunch cooks. ()

3. Walk with the Gods

The Sentiero degli Dei is a mountain pathway linking Agerola to Positano that no trekking enthusiast should miss. A picnic is a must in this, some of the most breathtaking countryside in Italy. ().

4. Read your Bible

Carla Capalbo鈥檚 extraordinary book The Food and Wine Guide to Naples and Campania has fast become a bible for food lovers all over Campania. Read it! (Pallas Athene Publishers).

5. Discover Procida

After a morning鈥檚 sightseeing on this beautiful island, stop off for lunch at Ristorante Gorgonia at the bay of Corricella. Try their spaghetti alla procidana with sea urchin and lemon. (Closed Nov. 鈥 March.)(Via Marina Corricella, 50 (+39) 081 8101060)

6. Shake it all about!

Time to kill between trains at Napoli鈥檚 central station? Hide your wallet in your undies and nip outside for an excellent caf茅 frapp茅 at Bar Mexico, 铿乫ty metres away in Piazza Garibaldi. (Piazza Garibaldi, 71).

7. Visit a mozzarella farm

La Tenuta Vannulo near Paestum is an organic farm that produces some of the best mozzarella in Campania. While stocking up on cheese, take a seat and enjoy some of their luscious yoghurts and ice creams, all made on the premises. (Contrada Vannulo (+39) 0828 724765, ).

8. Chill out

At Gelateria Gabriele in Vico Equense, construct yourself a wickedly wonderful lunch. Fill a tub with limoncello-soaked bab脿s, and top with scoops of freshly made ice cream. Decorate with whipped cream, chopped nuts and tiny wild strawberries. (Corso Umberto I (+39) 081 8016234).

9. Savour Sorrento

Visit Il Buco,a gem of a restaurant whose warm welcome and seriously good food will have you coming back for more. In summer, eat outside at tables surrounded by jasmine. (II Rampa Marina Piccola, 5 (+39) 081 8782354 )

10. Buy a bottle

Near the Reggia di Caserta sits one of Italy鈥檚 most respected wine shops, Enoteca La Botte. Let owner Vincenzo Ricciardi help you choose from the 20,000 labels on offer. (Via Nazionale Appia 168 (+39)0823 494040 )

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