Gardens of Naples and Amalfi: the Villas of Ravello, the Gardens of Augustus and Lemon Terraces

Naples is famous for pizza, colourful houses and its view of Vesuvius. Head a little further south, though, and the Amalfi Coast begins, with gardens on the cliffs and lemon terraces. Here are places where southern Italy shows itself in bloom.

Italian sunshine in a bouquet: garden roses and flower baskets.

View full-size photo

Gardens of Naples and the coast

• Naples Botanical Garden. Founded in the early 19th century, with glasshouses, palms, ferns and a succulent collection in the heart of the city.
• Villa Rufolo (Ravello). Flower terraces above the sea. The garden is said to have inspired Richard Wagner’s magic garden in Parsifal, and a music festival is held here in summer.
• Villa Cimbrone (Ravello). Famous for its Terrace of Infinity, lined with marble busts and overlooking the coast.
• Gardens of Augustus (Capri). A small flower garden on a cliff with views of the Faraglioni rocks and the winding Via Krupp.
• La Mortella (Ischia). A garden created by Susana Walton, wife of composer William Walton, with tropical plants and water cascades.

View full-size photo

Lemon terraces

The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its large, fragrant lemons. They are grown on narrow terraces climbing the slopes and covered with frames of chestnut poles. In spring the blossoming trees fill the air with scent, and the fruit goes into the famous limoncello.

• Best time. April to June and September, when gardens are in flower and the heat and crowds are lighter.
• Getting around. Buses and ferries are easiest along the coast, as the road is narrow and busy.

View full-size photo

For more Italian gardens, see Italy in bloom, and for Mediterranean gardens, Spain in flower.

FAQ

Which villa should I choose in Ravello?

If time is short, Villa Rufolo with its flower terraces; for coastal views, Villa Cimbrone and its Terrace of Infinity.

When do the Amalfi lemons blossom?

Mainly in spring, but lemon trees can flower and fruit several times a year.

Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.

About the author →