Conca dei Marini holidays

Holidays to Conca dei Marini team authentic Italian flavours with one of the prettiest coastlines in Europe.

A jet-set secret

Thanks to its under-the-radar reputation, this part of Italy’s seen more than its fair share of famous faces. For starters, Jackie Kennedy regularly took to the waves on water-skis back in the Sixties. The perfect hideaway, Conca dei Marini – AKA ‘seafarers’ basin’ – has clung on to its fishing village roots, keeping the dialled-down way of life much the same as it was a century ago. You’ll find whitewashed houses carved into the cliffside and walkways meandering their way down to the shore. Seafood’s practically a religion here, too.

Pirates and pastries

As well as celebrity credentials, Conca dei Marini also comes with an intriguing history. It was once a hotspot for pirate raids due to its importance as a trading base, and in 1500 a lofty watchtower was built to protect the village. It’s called Capo di Conca, and sits on a slim peninsula. In contrast, the local monastery’s credited with creating sfogliatelle, a much-loved Italian pastry. They’re shaped like shells, and filled with rich custard cream.

Nearby Amalfi

The jewel on Italy’s ankle, there are simply no bad angles to Amalfi. It’s in the supermodel category looks-wise, thanks to the rainbow of chocolate-box buildings, vanilla-coloured streets and vibrant green lemon terraces that cover the hillsides. Life here centres on a spirited piazza, where a 9th-century cathedral takes centre stage. You’ll find the UNESCO-approved town a 10-minute drive away from Conca dei Marini.