Compare Cycle Cilento & the Amalfi Coast by Exodus Travels vs Naples: Jewel of South Florida’s Gulf Coast by Road Scholar
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4.5 | Great
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| Duration | 8 days | 6 days |
| Price From | $ 2,490 | $ 1,299 |
| Price Per Day | $ 311 | $ 217 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | All breakfasts and one dinner included. Breakfast is normally continental style with a choice of cereal, bread, pastries, yoghurt, orange juice and milk with an array of teas/coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light meal, such as a sandwich or a mix of delicious appetisers, in small traditional cafes along the route. The evening meals will be taken in a variety of local restaurants or at the hotels, where the standard is excellent. Most of the regional specialities in this area are prepared with delicious fresh produce such as tomatoes, olives, peppers and cheese. The Amalfi Coast also has some of the finest fish in the world; scialatielli ai frutti di mare (fresh ribbon-shaped pasta with seafood) is one of the staple dishes worth trying. The a la carte menus in most restaurants recommended by your local leader will give you an opportunity to sample a great range of local specialities. |
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| Description |
Cycling is a great way to explore the stunning natural and cultural treasures of Campania. This tour takes us through the best routes and contrasts of the region, from the relatively unknown and unspoilt Cilento to the popular, lively Amalfi Coast. The Cilento National Park is largely undisturbed by modern life and as we cycle through quaint fishing villages, the traditions of the area are still evident. We also visit the Greco-Roman city of Paestum, with its three major doric temples, before heading to the lovely town of Minori on the Amalfi Coast. Here, we cycle on some of the most scenic routes in the world, while visiting beautiful towns including Positano and, of course, Amalfi itself. All the cycling will help to build our appetite for the fine food for which the area is renowned.Cycle from unspoilt Cilento to the Unesco-listed Amalfi Coast |
Enjoy an educational adventure as you participate in expert-led lectures, conservation efforts and an expert-led study-cruise along the warm waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast. |
Day 1 Start in Palinuro, on the southern coast of Cilento National Park
Welcome to Palinuro, a lively and picturesque village on the southern coast of Cilento (approximately three hours’ drive from Naples). Capo Palinuro is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and impressive underwater caves. We gather at the hotel today for our first meeting; a great chance to get to know the group and tour leader. Accommodation: Hotel Santa Caterina (or similar)
Day 2 Cycle along the most unspoilt stretch of coastline in southern Italy, then inland to the Mingardo Canyon and abandoned village of San Severino
We start early in the morning with a scenic circular ride along the southern coast of Cilento National Park, the most unspoilt stretch of coastline in southern Italy, offering spectacular views of the Gulf of Policastro. We arrive in the lovely coastal town of Marina di Camerota for a short break and then climb inland to the village of San Giovanni a Piro. We cycle around the impressive Mount Bulgheria and to the Mingardo Canyon before making our way back to Palinuro.
Day 3 Ride to Capo Palinuro then to the medieval village of Pisciotta; descend to the coast and Casalvelino
From Marina di Camerota, we follow the beautiful coastline to the peninsula of Capo Palinuro to the medieval village of Pisciotta, known for producing delicious olive oil, which we will taste. From here we climb gently to the town of Ascea. En route back to the coast, we cycle past the ancient Greek settlement of Velia, which has an impressive arch from the fourth century BCE, before heading to the plain of Casalvelino, where we stay in a lovely agriturismo.
Day 4 Undulating ride through coastal villages; stop for lunch and optional swim; continue to Paestum with its ancient Greek ruins
Today we enjoy one of the finest rides in Italy as we leave the Casalvelino plain behind and cycle through picturesque coastal villages to Acciaroli, a favourite of Ernest Hemingway. We stop for lunch in Santa Maria di Castellabate, where there is the opportunity for a swim in the sea. In the afternoon we enjoy the final section of our route to Agropoli, a charming town overlooking the sea, and ride to our hotel, just a stone’s throw from the ancient Greek temples of Paestum.
Day 5 Train to Salerno; scenic ride to Minori, our base for the next three nights
This morning we have time to visit the well-preserved temples and amphitheatre of Paestum. We will also taste the celebrated buffalo mozzarella at lunch, before taking a train to Salerno, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. In the afternoon, we ride to Minori, one the most scenic coastal roads in the world. Along the way we stop in the fishing village of Cetara, known for delicious tuna and anchovies. We then continue to Capo d'Orso, offering breathtaking views over the Amalfi Coast and Capri. From here it's mainly downhill as we cycle past dramatic cliffs and lemon terraces to the coastal villages of Maiori and finally Minori, our base for the last three nights.
Day 6 Cycle along the Strada Amalfitana to Amalfi, Praiano and Positano; climb inland to the Colli di San Pietro for great views over the Bay of Naples; return to Minori via Amalfi
This morning we ride along the scenic coastal road to Amalfi, where we have time for a short stroll. The town has been popular with the British since Edwardian times, when the upper classes viewed the town as a pleasant place to spend their winters. The large cathedral dominates the town with its bright coloured tiles so typical of the region. We then continue to Furore, Praiano and on to Positano, a near-vertical town of colourful buildings. The route offers fantastic views of the whole peninsula, including the island of Capri. We then make a beautiful climb to the Colli di San Pietro, on the ridge between the Bay of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno. Time permitting, your leader may decide to extend this ride to Sorrento. There are several options for lunch, before we cycle back to Positano, Amalfi and finally Minori in time for the sunset.
Day 7 Free day to relax on the beach at Minori, visit Ravello and Amalfi, take a boat trip to Capri or visit Pompeii and Vesuvius.
A day off the bike to relax in Minori. Alternatively, you could take a guided walk to glorious Ravello, enjoy a boat trip to the island of Capri or visit the Unesco World Heritage sites of Pompeii and Vesuvius.
Day 8 End Minori
You’ve cycled the Amalfi Coast, tasted delicious regional cuisine and clocked an impressive number of miles on the saddle. This morning, however, there’s time for a final breakfast of the holiday before beginning your return journey home.
Day
1
Check-In, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Naples, FL D Holiday Inn Express - Naples
Activity note: 3:00 p.m. hotel check-in followed by Program Registration; 5:15 p.m. Orientation followed by Welcome Dinner.
Afternoon: Hotel Check-in: Available from 3:00pm. Program Registration: After you have your room assignment, come to the Road Scholar table in the lobby to register with the program staff and get your welcome packet containing your name-tag, up-to-date schedule that reflects any changes, other important information, and to confirm when and where the Orientation session will take place. If you arrive late, please ask for your packet when you check in. Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner: Welcome dinner at the hotel.
Evening: At leisure.
Day
2
Botanical Gardens, Naples Depot Museum, Expert Lecture
Naples, FL B,L,D Holiday Inn Express - Naples
Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles paved sidewalks.
Breakfast: At the hotel, enjoy a variety of hot and cold items on the buffet, including scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, potatoes, pancakes, yogurt, oatmeal, fruit, coffee and tea, as well as an omelette station.
Morning: Enjoy a morning lecture by a local expert to further your knowledge about the about the Naples area. Next, Head to the Naples Botanical Garden and learn with a local expert, explore the essence of the Florida landscape, and learn about native plants. This world-class “paradise” combines delightful cultivated tropical gardens with beautifully restored natural habitats, connecting people and plants through display, education, conservation, and science. It began in 1993 with the purchase of an extraordinary 170-acre site comprising seven different habitats just south of Old Naples, where an existing strip mall and parking lot were transformed, culminating in six cultivated gardens, 2.5 miles of walking trails, and 90 acres of restored native preserve.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the Naples Botanical Garden. .
Afternoon: After lunch, we will head to Naples Depot Museum, located in what used to be the Seaboard Air Line Railway Station. This museum explains the impact that transportation and trade had on the development of Naples. Naples transformed over the years from a 300 person village to a bustling resort city.
Dinner: Plated at a local restaurant.
Evening: At Leisure.
Day
3
The Revs Institute, The Conservancy of Southwest Florida
Naples, FL B,L,D Holiday Inn Express - Naples
Activity note: Walking indoors and outdoors on flat, paved surfaces.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Visit the Revs Institute, whose founder Miles Collier was born into an American automotive dynasty. Both his father and uncle, Miles and Sam are credited with introducing sports car racing to the United States during the 1930’s. The rare collection includes over 100 vintage automobiles built between 1896 to 1995. As you explore the museum, notice on some of the earlier documents form the late 1890’s automobiles are referred to as “locomotives!”
Lunch: Boxed lunch, bottled water included, at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
Afternoon: Following lunch, we'll begin our visit at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. Its mission is to protect the area's unique natural environment. A naturalist will lead the group through the exhibits of the Dalton Discovery Center that works to enhance visitors' knowledge of the surrounding ecosystems. In a classroom setting, hear from a naturalist about some of the wildlife they work to protect.
Dinner: At a local restaurant.
Evening: At leisure.
Day
4
Liebig Art Center, Palm Cottage, Historic Downtown Naples.
Naples, FL B,L Holiday Inn Express - Naples
Activity note: Walk up to 1.5 miles.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: We will explore the von Liebig Art Center for a special behind-the-scenes visit of this community art center operated by the Naples Art Association. The von Liebig Art Center showcases exhibits from artists ranging from local to international fame. Next we will depart for the historic Naples Beach Hotel. Believe it or not, this hotel houses more than 3,000 Orchids. Beginning in 1991 with just six plants, the collection requires the care of a full-time staff and the controlled environment of a large Orchid House. In a private meeting space, a local expert will display and discuss the types of orchids grown onsite, which include Phalaenopsis, Dendrobiums and Cattleyas. Enjoy Q&A time at the end of the presentation to have all your questions like, “Where do I cut the spike?" or "How do I properly water my orchid?" answered by your local expert.
Lunch: Enjoy a plated lunch at the Naples Beach Hotel.
Afternoon: .After lunch, we will depart for a guided tour of the Palm Cottage. The Palm Cottage will allow us to take a step back into Old Naples and experience the rustic and hand crafted charm that makes the home and community a local architectural gem. Now we will see the historic Naples Pier. Originally built in 1888 as a freight and passenger dock, the Naples Pier stands as a community landmark. Narrow gauge train rails spanning the length of the pier transported freight and baggage in the early 1900’s. Rebuilt after damage by hurricanes in 1910, 1926 and 1960, it remains a public symbol of the area’s history. Originally known as a "sportsman's paradise", attracting fishermen and hunters alike, it was Naples pull as a resort town that captivated many famous and important visitors and brought about the nickname, “summerland in wintertime”.
Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening: At leisure.
Day
5
Eco-Cruise, Lecture, Farewell Dinner.
Naples, FL B,L,D Holiday Inn Express - Naples
Activity note: Load and unload boat.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: We will begin the day on the water aboard the Good Fortune II at Rookery Bay. During our eco-cruise, we'll have on-board instruction by a Conservancy naturalist, getting an up-close look at some of the waterways, bird species, and other wildlife of the area.
Lunch: Disembark the Good Fortune II as a group and enjoy lunch on the Isle of Capri at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions
Dinner: Farewell dinner at the hotel.
Evening: We will be joined by our guest speaker who will discuss wildlife in Naples and the surrounding area along with showing a short film highlighting some of the key areas from our visit.
Day
6
Morning Lecture, Program Concludes
Naples, FL B
Activity note: 10:00 a.m. after Lecture with the Florida Public Archaeology Network program concludes; 11:00 p.m. hotel check out.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Learn about the wonders that lie beneath the soil of Naples with an expert form the Florida Public Archaeology Network. This concludes our program. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
