Even in this difficult time, I’m sure the Lemons on the Amalfi coast are still thriving. Today, as my preserved lemons are brining in the refrigerator {recipe to come} I thought we could all use a visit back to this incredible region and the Sentiero dei Limoni…. enjoy.
Do you have any travel plans for the summer? One trip on my list is to head back to Sorrento, to do Le Sirenuse, a hike we weren’t able to take, due to rain, last April when I went on a trek along the Amalfi Coast with Mountain Trek. We did plenty of other amazing hikes and I learned so much about the history, culture, and agriculture of that section of Italy from our fabulous guide Zia Lucy that I want to share with you.
The major agricultural product here is lemons, I mean lots and lots of lemons, I’ve never seen so many beautiful lemons! The main variety of lemons grown here are the Sfusato Amalfitano, and their primary purpose to be made into lemoncello.
One particularly fruited area was the Sentiero dei limoni, an ancient trail that used to connect these coastal villages before the roadways were built. As if the beauty of this trail with the bright yellow lemons over head, supported by ancient wooden structures and the sea in the distance weren’t enough, we were also treated to the ethereal aroma of citrus blossoms and jasmine, absolutely heavenly!
If you look closely at the far left corner of the image below, you’ll get an overall understanding of how these lemons are grown.
Limestone tiers were built into the Alps ages ago, creating platforms or beds in which plants, vines and trees could be cultivated.
Scaffolding is built with chestnut poles, the chestnut trees are grown close together so that they grow up straight and tall making it easier to form these structures.
During the stormy months the scaffolding is covered with netting to protect the delicate blossoms and fruit from rain and wind.
Caio ~ caio for now!
More from the Costa d’amalfi will be coming soon!
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