Sperlonga to Massa Lubrense

Yesterday was finished with a bit of lounging (sounds so much better than laziness) and dinner at Giamare. 

I finally had prociutto crudo (raw) and melon followed by a steamed sea bass. It is mandatory (in my book) that each meal be finished with limoncello. Absolutely mandatory. 

Wednesday was on to another town, another adventure.

But first, breakie! I asked for gluten free bread or cookies and was presented with a full loaf of bread, a snack cake, two packages of crackers and a full bag of cookies. First, Italy is amazing for anyone gluten free. Second, if they only knew just who they were giving such treats to...the freaking Cookie Monster herself! I restrained myself a bit, but later craved the cookies big time. Every meal I have to ask to make sure it is gluten free and they always know instantly, sometimes before I even utter "senza glutine". Home could take a lesson. Being the pizza, pasta and bread heaven, they take it quite seriously-unlike at home when you are questioned if you are truly allergic. If you are an Italian with Celiac you receive a monthly check from the government to cover the extra costs, about 100 Euro (approximately $140 USD). All gluten free goods, even beer, are available to purchase at the pharmacy. That is statement enough of how serious they take it! 

Enough glutinous ramblings...time for a coastal cruise down to Massa Lubrense. Each destination gradually seems to get better and better. (Thanks to my awesome travel agent)

There were a few tunnels through the expansive cliff sides. This was by far the longest, at least a few miles long. 

The views around every bend were stupendous. Naples can be seen, growing in size around every twisty turn. 

Finding lunch along the ride was difficult as nearly everything closes down for siesta hour after about 1 or so, until about 5. This was a trying drive as we could find nothing that was open or edible. 

The several stops made to try to find lunch provided some beautiful views, which distracted from any extreme hangriness. A man with a food truck was parked alongside the road selling lemon ice. I love this stuff and it was a perfect treat for such a long drive. 

Massa Lubrense harbor. This town is so quaint and of course makes the heart swoon! 

First glimpse from the hotel balcony, overlooking Capri! Pinch me! 

After quickly checking in, it was out to find some much needed food. This town is darling, with the church at the center. There was a funeral upon our arrival and a wedding a few days later. 

These flower shops melt me. And they're everywhere! 

Another one of my old man crushes, headed to the funeral. Old Italian men are so stinkin cute! 

Nap views

The sun called for a mandatory stop en route to an amazing din din.

The green, the blue of the sky, the blue of the Mediterranean, Capri, THOSE CLOUDS. {giant sigh}

Time for a morning run to see Massa Lubrense! 

Swoon! 

Waterfalls next to the long, twisty driveway of the hotel.

Italian perfection

From the top of Relais Blu, last night's dinner spot.

These men had just exited the church across the street, walking methodically with bibles in hand and involved in a deep conversation. Such sweetness.

Need. On a front gate.

Those vines! 

I found it! An old shooting award seen along the road under an olive orchard.

Every stinking corner...same beautiful view. It never gets old. Note the olive orchards planted on the hillside. These Italians are crazy in their building and planting on the greatest of cliffs. 

Perhaps the medal belonged to the presumably darling old man who lives here? 

Back to the hotel for some seaside lounging.

The hotel cove. Perfect spot for rock jumping into the Mediterranean. The most darling 10 year old English boy and I challenged one another to jumping. One jump for me for every five of his. He found me to be a big sissy.

I wish I had a picture, but the time of the day provided the best lighting. The water was sparking like a sea if diamonds, a thought that will forever be ingrained in my mind. Bliss. 

Just driving to dinner can be an adventure here.

GPS navigated down this "road". Mirrors were tragically scratched before deciding a turn around was needed. Not pictured was the dog who had jumped down from and again back up through the hole in the black fabric. This fabric is always seen surrounding lemon tree orchards, big or small.

A roadside pause to figure out where the restaurant is. What should have been maybe 15 minutes took 45. This is Italian time. The streets are an unbelievable maze of nonsensical twists and turns. 

An old Italian man on his balcony (unknown of his cuteness) could be heard speaking very loudly and animated on the phone. 

Dinner view of Sorrento's Marina Grande. Don't miss the little man in the tiny boat! 

If you don't already know, I loooove fireworks! I can't explain why, but I just do. I usually see them once a year on the fourth if I am lucky. Nightly there were works being blasted from Naples, but I could never see them from where we stayed. There was a great view from dinner on the pier this night. 

"May there always be fireworks."- someone epic

Post dinner marina stroll

Busses are terrifying around here. They have zero regard of pedestrians or other cars. I'm thankful to have all of my extremities and be alive to know!