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Positano
Located on the Coast of Almafi in Campania, Central Italy, the town of Positano is a quaint and quiet sleeping village that has become the backdrop to the romance of Italy as portrayed in Hollywood movies.
The films “Only You” (1994), starring Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr. and Under the Tuscan Sun (2003), starring Diane Lane all follow its characters down the stone pathways and staircases into the main city which lie in the hills slowly winding down the coast.
Today, Positano is considered one of the most chic destinations in Europe. Two of its hotels, Il San Pietro and Le Sirenuse, are frequently cited as among the best in the world.
The coast of Positano is a convenient take-off point to a ferry trip to island paradise of Ischia and Capri during summer months. But those who stay on land aren’t going to be disappointed with any of the two gorgeous sandy beaches that line the coast hugging the seas.
The smaller beach of Fornillo is a more private summer getaway accessible only through a staircase from the grotto or leisurely pathway along Spiaggia Grande, the main ferry and beach area. Its relaxed atmosphere with cafés and bars are a contrast to the pace of the more dynamic Spiaggia Grande where the ferry brings people to and from getaways.
Positano boasts one the world's few 'pierced' mountains; a giant shoulder of rock with a hole punched through it. This feat was said to have been a miracle performed by the Virgin Mary if you ask the locals.
Positano remained a popular destination for the ballet world, attracting famous guests such as Margot Fonteyn, Antony Tudor, John Cranko and Carla Fracci. Since 1969, the annual Massine ballet prizes have been awarded in Positano every September. It also hosts the annual Cartoons on the Bay Festival, at which Pulcinella awards for excellence in animation are presented.
