High above Italy’s dazzling Amalfi Coast, Ravello’s villas greet you with some of the most breathtaking gardens I’ve ever wandered through. My first visit to Villa Cimbrone honestly left me at a loss for words—I just drifted, wide-eyed, through what many call Ravello’s crown jewel.
Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo’s gardens really stand out as prime examples of English landscaping in Southern Europe. Somehow, they blend cultivated beauty with wild, natural splendor in a way that just feels right.
When I walk through these sky-high gardens, it feels like I’m floating somewhere between earth and clouds. The Terrace of Infinity at Villa Cimbrone especially nails this feeling—Roman-style statues line a balcony that almost dangles over the endless blue Mediterranean.
The way the statues stand against that big, open sky makes it clear why these gardens have pulled in visitors from all over the world.
These villas take the already jaw-dropping Amalfi Coast and somehow make it even more magical. Strolling through Villa Rufolo’s grounds, I watched the carefully designed landscapes clash and dance with the sea—no photo could ever do it justice.
The gardens change with the seasons, so there’s always something new to see and smell. Any time feels like the right time to discover these heavenly escapes in Ravello.
Discovering Ravello: A Mediterranean Gem
Ravello perches high above the Mediterranean’s blue waters, and honestly, it’s a treasure that’s charmed travelers for centuries. This town mixes jaw-dropping views with a deep cultural heritage, making it one of Italy’s most precious places.
Location and Breathtaking Setting
Ravello really sits like a jewel atop the Amalfi Coast, about 365 meters above the sea. Thanks to its height, you get some of the most spectacular panoramic views I’ve ever seen.
Unlike the busier towns below, Ravello keeps things serene and almost otherworldly. The cliffs drop dramatically toward the turquoise Mediterranean, creating a wild backdrop for the town’s elegant villas and gardens.
Whenever I wander Ravello’s narrow streets, I can’t help but seek out those viewpoints that show off the coastline. The town’s unique spot gives it a special microclimate, so lush plants and bright flowers thrive all year.
A Storied Past: The Town’s Rich History
Ravello’s fascinating history goes back to the 11th century, when people founded it as a safe haven from barbarian invasions. In the Middle Ages, it flourished as a wealthy maritime republic with strong trading ties.
Noble families like the Fuscos built grand palaces and villas—many are still standing, echoing Ravello’s golden age when powerful merchants and nobles called it home.
In the early 20th century, families like the Vuilleumiers started transforming old properties into the stunning villas and gardens we visit now. Their vision kept Ravello’s historic character alive while adding new beauty.
I’m always surprised by how many artists, writers, and musicians have fallen for Ravello over the years. Wagner, Greta Garbo, and Gore Vidal all found inspiration here, adding to the town’s reputation as an artistic hideaway.
The Iconic Villas: Ravello’s Architectural Jewels
Ravello’s historic villas perch right on the cliffs, showing off some of Italy’s most spectacular architecture. These estates mix epic views, gorgeous gardens, and centuries of cultural stories.
Villa Cimbrone: Timeless Elegance and Famous Gardens
Villa Cimbrone really is Ravello’s crown jewel. The first time I stepped through its gates, I felt like I’d landed in another world.
The villa, now a luxury hotel, dates back centuries but got a major facelift in the early 20th century.
But it’s the gardens that make Villa Cimbrone unforgettable. The Terrace of Infinity (Terrazza dell’Infinito) gives you what many call the best view in all of Italy. Standing there, surrounded by marble busts, I felt suspended between sea and sky.
The Temple of Bacchus and the crypt add a mystical touch to these already magical gardens. Winding paths snake through lush greenery, rose gardens, and ancient statues.
Every turn seems to reveal something new—a glimmering pool, a hidden grotto, or a secret spot to just take it all in.
Villa Rufolo: History, Art, and Cultural Legacy
Villa Rufolo sits right in Ravello’s main square. This 13th-century gem once belonged to the wealthy Rufolo family and even inspired Wagner’s setting for “Parsifal.”
The villa’s architecture mixes Norman, Arab, Sicilian, and Byzantine styles, making it a true cultural treasure. Its two-level tower offers panoramic views that honestly left me stunned.
Villa Rufolo’s gardens, though smaller than Cimbrone’s, still captivate. Terraced layouts burst with seasonal flowers, all set against that endless blue Mediterranean.
Every summer, the Ravello Festival turns these gardens into a magical concert stage.
Art exhibitions often fill the villa’s halls, tying its rich past to today’s culture. I found the history exhibits especially interesting—they show just how much artistic influence and noble heritage this place holds.
Terraced Gardens Soaring Above the Sea
Ravello’s villas show off some of Italy’s most dramatic gardens, built on terraces that almost float between sky and sea. These spaces blend human creativity with the wild beauty of the Amalfi Coast.
Panoramic Terraces with Dreamlike Views
Walking through Villa Cimbrone’s gardens, I immediately noticed the famous Terrace of Infinity. This breathtaking spot sits high on a promontory, offering endless views across the blue Mediterranean.
Roman-style statues line the terrace, turning the panorama into a living painting. When I visited early one morning, the light made everything look almost dreamlike as it danced along the coastline.
Villa Rufolo’s terraces offer a different but equally stunning perspective. Its gardens stand out against the sea and sky, just like Wagner described—”the magic garden of Klingsor.”
Botanical Wonders: Mediterranean Plant Life
These terraced gardens show off an amazing mix of Mediterranean plants, all thriving in Ravello’s unique microclimate. Bright bougainvillea spills down old stone walls, and cypress trees shoot up like exclamation points.
I loved seeing:
- Fragrant citrus groves
- Ancient olive trees
- Colorful seasonal flowers
- Rare Mediterranean herbs
Generations of gardeners have kept these botanical treasures alive using traditional techniques. When I visited in spring, the gardens exploded with color and scent.
What really struck me was how the plants frame the views instead of hiding them. The designers clearly thought about how to use greenery to create peaceful corners where you can just sit and soak it all in.
Romantic Retreats: Lavish Villas and Luxurious Stays
Ravello has some of the most incredible places for couples looking for romance and those unbeatable Amalfi Coast views. I’ve found that the mix of historic architecture and modern luxury sets the perfect mood for a getaway you won’t forget.
5-Star Hotels and Boutique Experiences
Palazzo Avino stands out as one of Ravello’s top luxury stays. This five-star hotel started life as a 12th-century private villa for Italian nobility, and now it welcomes guests with real elegance.
Image Source: Tripadvisor
During my stay, I couldn’t get over the blend of old-world charm and modern comforts. The rooms open up to breathtaking views of the Mediterranean—sunset from there is something else.
Hotel Parsifal gives you a more intimate vibe, set in an ancient convent from 1288. The atmosphere feels peaceful, and the staff really go out of their way to make your stay personal.
Image Source: Tripadvisor
Villa Piedimonte keeps ranking among Ravello’s most romantic hotels. The property combines classic Italian design with up-to-date comfort.
Perfect Escape for Couples
Villa Cimbrone is just made for couples craving privacy and luxury. The huge gardens and exclusive feel make it perfect for romantic walks or quiet moments away from the crowds.
The villa’s spot, high above the sea, gives you that suspended-between-earth-and-sky feeling. My partner and I spent hours just taking in the views from our own terrace.
Many hotels offer special packages for couples—think candlelit dinners, couples’ spa treatments, and private garden access after hours.
If you want more independence, places like Nonna Carmelina and Villa Il Lupo Felice let you rent a private villa with all the comforts. These hideaways start at around $170 to $460 per night, depending on the season.
Savoring Ravello: Mediterranean Cuisine and Local Culture
Ravello isn’t just about gardens and views—it’s a treat for every sense. The local cuisine brings Mediterranean flavors to life, and the nearby villages add even more depth to your visit.
Gastronomic Delights in Villa Settings
You really haven’t experienced Ravello until you’ve tasted the food. Many historic villas have restaurants where traditional Mediterranean dishes shine, using locally-sourced ingredients.
At Villa Rufolo, I had lunch on a terrace that overlooked the coastline. The chef served up fresh seafood pasta with lemons straight from nearby groves—simple, but bursting with flavor.
Several five-star hotels in Ravello set up dining experiences that mix luxury with authenticity. I especially loved eating outdoors, where the scent of jasmine mingled with the aroma of grilled fish and olive oil.
Definitely try these local favorites:
- Scialatielli ai frutti di mare (handmade pasta with seafood)
- Melanzane alla parmigiana (eggplant layered with cheese)
- Delizia al limone (lemon dessert)
Exploring Nearby Villages: Atrani and Beyond
Just a short walk from Ravello, I found Atrani—a tiny village that’s actually Italy’s smallest municipality and, in my opinion, one of the prettiest. Its pastel buildings tumble down to a cozy beach cove.
Atrani gives you a more authentic glimpse of local life than some of the more touristy towns. I wandered through narrow alleys, stumbled into hidden piazzas, and watched locals play cards while kids kicked soccer balls nearby.
The village’s small restaurants serve some of the best home-style cooking I’ve tasted. At a family-run trattoria, I had handmade gnocchi—the owner told me it was his grandmother’s recipe, and I believe him.
Market day in Atrani brings out vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade ceramics. It’s a great way to experience daily Amalfi Coast life without the crowds.
