Scala

When planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, the towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are at the top of most travel lists. Yet these are only three of the thirteen towns that make up this UNESCO World Heritage protected coastline in southern Italy. While most travellers only hit the well-known locations, there’s one little town that has all the charm of the Amalfi Coast that you’ll rarely find on any list. This is Scala, a small mountain town conveniently located between Amalfiand Ravello. Full of history, extraordinary views, and natural beauty, this is a place I have been fortunate enough to call home for more than a decade.

When John Steinbeck wrote about Positano in Harper’s Bazaar in 1953, he said, “Nearly always when you find a place as beautiful as Positano, your impulse is to conceal it.” Although he was mistaken to assume that Positano would never become such a popular travel destination, I do understand that desire to keep special places hidden away. So, consider this an exceptional glimpse into one of my favourite quiet spots on the Amalfi Coast.

SHIPWRECKED ROMANS

While I’ve heard local historians debate the issue, Scala is considered to be the oldest town on the Amalfi Coast. It was founded by shipwrecked Romans who chose to settle in the mountains high above the sea for safety. The town rose in prominence in the Middle Ages thanks to its tight connection with the powerful Republic of Amalfi. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Piazza Municipio in the centre of Scala, when you are taking in the impressive Duomo di San Lorenzo.

DON’T MISS

FESTA DELLA CASTAGNA Chestnut trees cover the mountainside around Scala and every autumn, or food festival, that is one of the most entertaining on the Amalfi Coast. Spread over two weekends in October (dates vary depending on the harvest), the festival includes a variety of dishes and sweets made with chestnuts, traditional games, and live music.