I have just returned from this holiday (12/5-19/5).
My first solo holiday. There were 25 in the group, some more experienced than others. But everyone was friendly and supportive. Our local guide Gianna was very knowledgeable and friendly. As was our tour rep Sue. They were very efficient when a couple of folks had falls. Nothing was too much trouble.
I found the walks quite challenging, definitely more like hiking than walking! The poles were a god send!
Our final walk was the big one, the walk of the gods! There was an option, before starting the 1700 steps, to get a local bus down to Positano. About 10 of us wanted to do this, but were unable to get onto the bus, as it was full. There were lots of people waiting for the next one, so I doubt we wouldn't of made it onto that one either. We tried to get taxi's, but none were available. This really needs to be properly arranged to allow people to miss the steps if they need to. In the end we all had to walk down the steps. Not ideal. Sue was upset and annoyed that we couldn't get onto the bus, it wasn't her fault.
The scenery on all of the walks was just stunning! So many wild flowers and butterflies!
I did the optional tour to Pompeii. Enjoyed it very much. Our guide Franco was excellent!
We stayed at the hotel Piccolo Paradiso. It is in a gorgeous spot, overlooking the sea. I paid for a sea view, worth every penny. Stunning sunsets!
The rooms are basic. Kettle and fridge. The complementary tea and coffee weren't automatically topped up, had to ask for them. Cleaning was a bit hit and miss. Bathroom was always cleaned but the floors not so much. I also found a luggage tag (with full details on) from a previous guest and half eaten ice cream tub in the little freezer.
Ok. The food. For a country famed for its fantastic cuisine, this did not apply to this hotel. It was very disappointing. We had to order at breakfast for dinner. Starter, main course and random (no choice of ) dessert. It reminded me of school dinners! Not much fresh produce on our plates. Tinned peas. Mozzarella that seemed mass produced, it was square! I can buy better here at home! No oil or balsamic was produced unless we asked for it. Under cooked fish.
Buffet style continental breakfast. The only fruit was apples and oranges. Why not a bowl of fresh fruit salad? All of the little shops were selling the most delicious fresh fruit!
The other guests appeared to be having much nicer looking dinners than us. We were the only ones to order at breakfast.
I did have a lovely holiday! Made some great friends! And no blisters!
( just a few minutes from the hotel is a simply divine Agri Tourismo called La Lobra. They do the most incredible food. All home grown organic and home made. And you dine under the lemon trees! Bellisima!)
