HIDDEN GEM
The sunshine spot that’s just 4 hours from Ireland with secret beaches, 32C heat and Ryanair flights from €29.99
The town is known worldwide for its production of a popular item
TAKE a look at this stunning hidden gem European destination - with secret beaches, temperatures of 32C and creative history to keep you entertained.
The coastal town of Vietri sul Mare in Italy, is known as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast - and it is just four hours and 20 minutes from Dublin Airport.
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Ryanair offers flights directly to Naples which take three hours and 15 minutes - with prices starting at €29.99.
But heading to this little-known spot requires a further journey by train or by bus from Naples Airport to Vietri sul Mare - which takes one hour and five minutes by train to get to.
But the extra travel time is made worth it when you arrive in the scenic seaside town known for its picturesque landscapes, beautiful marinas, historic architecture and its status as a creativity hub for ceramic makers.
And while you won't be stuck for beautiful sights, golden beaches or activities to do in the town, it sits just 10 minutes from Salerno in the Campania region of Italy's south.
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As soon as you exit the transport hub of the town, Vietri sul Mare, you are met with panoramic views of the gorgeous sunspot and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
There are three popular beaches in this Amalfi Coast seaside spot, Spiaggia di Marina di Vietri, Spiaggia di Marina d'Albori and Rosa dei Venti, which all boast stunning views.
But the secret beach in the village is Spiaggia della Crestarella - which is mostly known to locals and avoids overcrowding.
However, the secret sun spot is a private beach; visitors must reserve a place and pay for their visit.
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As the town is known worldwide for its ceramic production, creativity lines the streets with shopfronts and flooring covered in intricate tile work and many shops for travellers to bring home a piece of Vietri sul Mare.
Among the activities available, guided tours are open to attend with locals where you can learn all about the Amalfi ceramic style and witness how they are made.
Everyone can see the boat but you have 20-20 vision if you can find all 5 sandcastles on the beach in 20 seconds
And if you have a creative streak yourself, some tours involve attending private ceramic lessons so tourists can make their own beautiful tiles.
No visit to the village would be complete without a walk to Marina Di Vietri, with its vibrant multicoloured buildings, a perfect place to take pictures of your travels.
The town also boasts a local park with winding, bright, tiled paths and an intricately decorated amphitheatre which looks out to the sea.
There are plenty of boat tours that allow holidaymakers there to explore the Amalfi coast.
There will also be food tours to keep the chefs occupied on the trip, including pasta and tiramisu-making classes, cooking classes, and street food tours.
There are also hikes up Mount San Liberatore for those who prefer to do activities alongside their rest and relaxation time.
For those interested in exploring the wine on offer on the Amalfi Coast, Le Vigne Di Raito winery is a 10-minute journey from Vietri sul Mare. It boasts a wine tour and stunning views of the country.
Prices for popular B&Bs in the area start at around €85 a night.
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