The Amalfi Coast is a destination that’s often seen on social media, with its colorful villages perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. However, there are some hidden gems in the area that are yet to be discovered by the masses.
In this blog post, I’m excited to share with you one of the best-kept secrets of the Amalfi Coast: the ancient watch towers. These towers, which date back centuries and were built to protect the coastline from invaders, offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and provide some of the most stunning views of the sea and the coastline.
So, if you’re looking for a unique travel experience, keep reading. I’ll take you on a tour of some of the best watch towers on the Amalfi Coast, including where to rent one as a unique place to stay. I’ll also share some of my favorite undiscovered spots in Positano and the Amalfi Coast that are not as well-known to tourists but are definitely worth a visit.
Undiscovered Positano: Torre Trasita
One of my favorite hidden spots in Positano is the Torre Trasita, an ancient watch tower that has been converted into a unique rental property. Located just steps from the beach and with breathtaking views of the sea, it’s the perfect place to stay for a truly unforgettable experience.
The Torre Trasita offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern luxury, with amenities like air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private terrace. And if you want to explore the area, the tower is just a short walk away from the heart of Positano.
If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, I recommend checking out La Marinella, a cozy restaurant located nearby that serves up delicious seafood and pasta dishes. But with the Torre Trasita’s fully equipped kitchen, you could also opt to cook your own meals and enjoy them with a view of the sea.
If you’re interested in staying at the Torre Trasita, you can find more information on their website.
Watch Towers in Amalfi: Torre dello Ziro and Torre Saracena
Moving on from Positano, let’s head to the town of Amalfi where we’ll find two more impressive watch towers to explore. The Torre dello Ziro is located just outside of town, and although it’s not available to rent, it’s still worth a visit for the panoramic views it offers. You can climb up to the top of the tower to get a 360-degree view of the sea and the surrounding coastline.
If you’re looking for a watch tower that you can actually stay in, check out the Torre Saracena. This tower has been converted into a unique bed and breakfast that offers a truly authentic Amalfi Coast experience. With just three guest rooms, it’s an intimate setting that’s perfect for a romantic getaway. And like the Torre Trasita, it’s located just steps from the sea and has breathtaking views of the coastline.
If you’re interested in booking a stay at the Torre Saracena, you can find more information on their website.
Watch Tower Restaurants: Torre Sponda and Torre Normanna
Now, let’s talk about another unique aspect of the watch towers on the Amalfi Coast: some of them have been converted into restaurants and beach clubs!
One of the best examples of this is the Torre Sponda in Positano. This tower, which dates back to the 13th century, has been transformed into a charming restaurant that serves up traditional Italian cuisine with stunning views of the sea. And if you’re looking to soak up some sun, the Torre Sponda also has a beach club with lounge chairs and umbrellas.
If you’re looking for a watch tower restaurant that’s a bit off the beaten path, check out the Torre Normanna. Located in the town of Maiori, this tower has been converted into a romantic restaurant that’s perfect for a special occasion. We stumbled upon this place late one morning and they opened early for us. We had the place to ourselves, and the food was incredible!
If you’re interested in visiting either of these watch tower restaurants, it’s best to make a reservation in advance to ensure a table. You can find more information on their websites: https://www.positano-torresponda.it/ and http://www.ristorantetorrenormanna.it/.
The ancient watch towers on the Amalfi Coast are a true hidden gem that offer a unique blend of history and modern luxury. Whether you’re looking for a unique place to stay or a stunning restaurant with a view, the watch towers have something to offer everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, be sure to add these hidden gems to your itinerary!
The Watch Towers certainly offer fantastic views. Which one is your favorite?
This one in Maiori was stunning!