With the rain derailing our plans in the Amalfi Coast, we had to figure out an alternate activity. Ultimately, it included one of the most perfect wineries. With such rave reviews on Trip Advisor, we decided to try the Cantina del Vesuvio Winery.
As you all know I love wineries. My favorite ones are here and here.
With the weather derailing our boat ride to Capri, thank goodness for Airbnb Experiences. Cantina del Vesuvio Winery popped up as an option. For a last minute booking, the price was right! In addition, the winery provided transportation from the train station which was great.
Amalfi Coast Transportation
If staying in Positano, the best way to get to the Winery is to take the SITA bus to the Sorrento train station. Next, catch the Circumvesuviana commuter line that runs between Sorrento and Naples approximately every half hour. The train ride is about a 20 minute ride to the Torre Annunziata Oplonti stop (2 stops after Pompeii going towards Naples). A great thing is that the winery provides a shuttle (shuttle is included in the price of the winery package) that picks you up from the station upon arrival. Furthermore, you will need to let them know you have arrived. There was a 10 minute wait for the shuttle.
WARNING: Be careful while waiting for the shuttle. Many drivers will stop and offer you a ride. Tell them NO!
The winery itself is located 5 minutes from Pompeii, 20 minutes from Naples, and 30 minutes from Sorrento in case you would like to drive there yourself.
Sorrento Train Station to the Winery
Let me first say that upon our arrival to the Sorrento train station, I was skeptical about using their public transportation. For lack of better terms, it looked scary as hell!!!! And, it was difficult to figure out where the trains were headed. Ultimately, we figured out it was heading in the right direction. The great thing is that fares are pretty cheap; tickets from Sorrento to Torre Annunziata only costs EUR 2.40 as of 2020. Based on the Sorrento website and Rome Tool Kit, you should know the following:
“Sorrento Station is the terminus of the line and is situated in the heart of Sorrento just east of the old town and main shopping area. The station forecourt is also used as the main bus terminus for the region although the local town buses do not come into the station itself. The Circumvesuviana trains to Naples are the only trains that use the station.”
“You cannot purchase tickets online, but only at the ticket window or one of the newspaper stands in the station. There is no combination train and bus ticket for the Amalfi Coast.”
“The news shop at the entrance is open all hours and much more helpful and informative regarding transport and will also sell you train tickets more efficiently and friendly than the official station ticket office.”
“Sorrento is the final stop on the line.”
“There is an elevator at the Sorrento station, which is located in the center of Sorrento.”
“There is no luggage storage area on the train, and no air conditioning.”
“SITA buses for the Amalfi Coast depart from right outside the Sorrento train station, and you can purchase tickets at the ticket stand near the bus or at the newspaper stand in the station.”
“There’s another option, the Campania Express Schedule: The train line between Sorrento and Naples with air conditioning, guaranteed seating, and luggage storage.”
Cantina del Vesuvio Winery
Upon our arrival to Cantina del Vesuvio Winery, we tipped our driver (this isn’t required). Initial view of the location is very beautiful. Although it rained that day, we were still able to do a short tour of the vineyards and get some great history behind the family, and their unique processing of the grapes.
The Experience
The atmosphere is so great with a real homey feel. The wine tasting and accompanying food is excellent. Hubby and I thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience (Hubby isn’t into wine but still enjoyed himself). Most importantly, the wine is delicious. I love all of their wine, but I recommend the Rose’ Vesuvio Lacryma Christi DOC Black Label. I’m not even a Rose’ kinda girl, but their black label Rose’ is delish!!!! I brought home a few bottles. They have an online store here if you aren’t able to visit this beautiful winery.
