Cilento is part of the larger region of Campania in southern Italy, one of the most visited parts of the country. Cilento itself is popular with tourists for its beautiful natural scenery, both along the coast and inland, as most of the region is contained within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park. The largest town and main port, Agropoli, has ancient roots, and is home to an impressive municipal archaelogical museum containing many local finds. Most people are more interested in Cilento's outdoor attractions and with warm, sunny weather most of the year round, the area has the climate to enjoy them.
The Cilentan coast is located in the gulfs of Salerno and Policastro, stretching dozens of kilometres from Capaccio-Paestum to Sapri. On the way, visitors will pass through 16 municipalities, made up of coastal towns and villages, many with attractive old towns, pleasant beaches and an impressive selection of local restaurants, serving freshly caught fish. Castellabate is one of the most impressive, with the old town and medieval church and fortress high on the cliffs overlooking the sea. At sea level, there are several rocky coves that offer quiet and sheltered bathing and are ideal for families. The remote hamlet of Scario is surprisingly popular with visitors, including locals, in the summer months, despite its tiny size meaning it has few amenities for tourists. The nearest main road and railway line are several kilometres away, guaranteeing you some peace and quiet away from the bulk of the crowds.
The Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park covers areas of the Cilento coast as well as inland. Not only can you enjoy the contrast between relaxing on the beach and hiking in the mountains but there are some impressive historic and natural attractions in the region. There are ruins and the remains of buildings from ancient Greek colonies that existed in Cilento, such as an impressive Temple of Poseidon in Paestum. As well as these ancient monuments, there are dozens of walking routes, either along the cliffs or inland among the mountains. Visitors can also explore the network of caves that exist in the area, including the Castelcivita caves, also known as the Spartacus caves because of the legend that the former gladiator used them as shelter, and the Pertosa caves with their underground rivers and lake, which are also home to a number of religious shrines and wall paintings.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Cilento? Then below is a selection of Apartments in Cilento and villas in Cilento that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
