Suspended between mountain and sky with spectacular vistas of the Amalfi coastline far below, Ravello is rich in ancient villas, archaeological remains, ecclesiastical treasures and splendid gardens. Measuring 1 ml from N to S and ¼ ml E to W, the village slopes gently down the hillside from a central pedestrianised piazza dominated by a remarkable 11th-century cathedral and its 13th-century bell tower. The cobbled and stepped streets, coupled with an almost total ban on cars, create an atmosphere of unhurried tranquillity, a romantic haven from the bustle of the outside world.

Middle- and upmarket couples. Peace-seekers, history buffs, photographers, writers and artists seeking an atmospheric base away from the more sophisticated resorts nearby.

A couple of 5-star hotels, half-a-dozen 4-stars and some small, simple properties in and around the village centre. Some incorporate well-preserved Roman and medieval architectural remains. A little self catering.

None in the immediate vicinity. The nearest resort options are at Amalfi or Minori.

Limited. An amazing lack of the usual souvenir ware and boutiques.

Daytime: choice of Roman and medieval remains in the shape of stone arches, cloisters and churches; several attractive formal gardens, notably at Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo; abundant panoramas for artists and photographers; ambitious walks or hiking on the old footpaths and steps which - until the 1900s - were the only links between villages and down to the coastal towns. Nightlife: generally low-key, limited to hotel entertainments or sitting in cafes and the odd bar. Chamber-music concerts at Villa Rufolo from March to Oct.

Limited to half-a-dozen small restaurants and pizzerias around the main square and in a couple of side streets. Mainly pasta dishes, local smoked ham, anchovies, fish, seafood, grilled local cheese and local wines.

Regular bus service to nearby Amalfi, with onward connections to Salerno, Sorrento and Naples. Small local taxi firm.

No organised programme. Within easy reach of several larger resorts such as Sorrento (for boats to Capri and Ischia), Amalfi and Maiori.

A third of the way up the boot of Italy, high above the Amalfi Coast, overlooking Salerno Bay. 20 mls W of Salerno. 7 mls N of Amalfi by tortuous mountain road. 172 mls SE of Rome. 44 mls SE of Naples and its international airport.

On the narrow peninsula between the Bays of Naples and Salerno, perched over 1,000 ft above sea level on a hilltop embraced by wooded hills with similar small picturesque villages. Looking dizzily down to the rugged Amalfi coastline with its switchback road.

Post Code: 84010
Website: www.ravellotime.it

Airport : Capodichino
Airport Code: NAP
Flight time from ther U.K.: 2 hrs. 30 mins