Southern Italy is renowned for its beauty and tradition, not to mention its incredible food. It is especially popular in the summer when visitors can explore the idyllic beaches and dine outdoors every night.
However, the popularity of hot spots such as Amalfi, Capri and Positano over the past few years has led to serious overcrowding. One southern town might do the trick for those still looking for a quiet coastal destination that flies under the radar in some way. And it is just two hours away from the bustle of the Amalfi coast.
Located on the coast of Silent, Santa Maria DiCastella Bete still has little to find by international crowds despite having many characteristics that travelers are looking for.
Unlike the steep cliffs and dense crowds of Amalfi, Santa Maria DiCastella Bete has a flat, easy-to-roam waterfront with sandy beaches and calm, clear waters.
The location within Cilento and Vallo Di Diano National Park means strict environmental protections are in place to help maintain blue flag status.
Heather Green, Citalia's product director, shares insights into this hidden gem.
She said: “Famous for its hilltop towns, charming villages and breathtaking blue flag beaches, Santa Maria DiCastella Beto is an appetizing, slow and tourist destination.”
The area is well known for its traditional Southern Italian cuisine, many of which are rooted in the healthy aspects of Mediterranean diet.
Heather said: “The area is known for enjoying a diverse diet of fresh fish and seasonal ingredients, and has a proportion of 100 people of 100.
“Sample local dishes such as Fusilli Cileentani (Fusilli Pasta and Ragout) and Mozzarella di Bufala (Buffalo Mozzarella) to discover the secrets of hidden foods that are said to promote health and longevity.”
Seafood, especially anchovies, have appeared in large numbers in local dining, while markets and family-owned trattoria serve daily catches with vegetables grown on nearby hills.
The town is small, but its food is growing in popularity. It was helped by the presence of Osteria 1861, a Michelin star in a former private home dating back to that year.
Santa Maria DiCastella Bete is also suitable for cultural day trips as it is close to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Heather suggested: “During your trip, make sure to visit the ancient Greek temples of Pestom and the stunning coastline of Cylent National Park.”
The Paestum temples are some of Europe's most preserved, and Puntalicosa's protected marine sanctuary territories offer walking trails and quiet coves.
