Amalfi: Private Valley Of The Mills Nature Reserve Tour

Discover the hidden gems of the Amalfi Coast with a private guided tour of the captivating Valley of the Mills Nature Reserve. Enjoy the region’s rich history and natural splendor as you explore the crumbling ruins of the Basilica di Sant’Eustacchio and witness cascading waterfalls amidst a serene protected ecosystem. Upgrade your experience to savor the flavors of the local cuisine at a charming farmhouse, where you’ll be treated to a multi-course regional lunch complemented by stunning vistas. This unique opportunity promises to unveil the true essence of the Amalfi Coast, leaving you with memories that will linger long after your departure.

Key Points

This private guided tour offers exclusive access to explore the Valley of the Mills Nature Reserve in Amalfi, including the crumbling ruins of the Basilica di Sant’Eustacchio.
Visitors can witness cascading waterfalls, spot rare plant species, and learn about the importance of chestnut forests and olive groves in the protected ecosystem.
The tour provides historical context about the region’s paper mill heritage and how the natural environment has shaped the Amalfi Coast.
An optional upgrade allows visitors to savor authentic regional cuisine at a local farmhouse, complementing the nature reserve exploration with a unique dining experience.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or wheelchair users, as it requires navigating uneven ground and steep paths.

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Tour Overview

This private guided tour of the Valley of the Mills Nature Reserve in Amalfi lasts for 3 hours.

The itinerary includes visiting the ruins of the Church of Saint Eustace and exploring the nature reserve with its waterfalls and rare plants. Guests can upgrade to include a lunch at a local farmhouse overlooking the Amalfi Coast.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to see the crumbling ruins of the Basilica di Sant’Eustacchio and gain special entrance into the protected nature reserve. Guests will learn about the history of the paper mills that once shaped the Amalfi Coast.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the meeting point in Piazza Duomo in Amalfi, but excludes food, drinks, and isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or wheelchair users.

Tour Highlights

Visitors can see the crumbling ruins of the Basilica di Sant’Eustacchio, a historic church dating back to the 11th century. This exclusive tour also grants special entrance into the protected Valley of the Mills Nature Reserve. Here, guests will marvel at the serene waterfalls and explore the rare plant life that thrives in this unique ecosystem. Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the history of the Amalfi Coast’s once-thriving paper mills, which played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s economy and culture.

Tour Highlights
See crumbling ruins of Basilica di Sant’Eustacchio	Get special access to protected nature reserve	Learn about Amalfi’s paper mill history

Inclusions

The private guided tour includes a licensed guide from A.I.G.A.E. Italy, who’ll provide expert commentary throughout the experience. Guests also get an entrance ticket to the exclusive Valley of the Mills Nature Reserve.

This allows access to the crumbling ruins of the Basilica di Sant’Eustacchio and the breathtaking waterfalls and rare plants that thrive in the protected area.

The tour also includes:

Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.
In-depth historical insights about the paper mills that once shaped the Amalfi Coast.
Special access to areas not open to the general public.
A chance to learn about the natural beauty of this stunning region.

Exclusions

Despite the comprehensive nature of the tour, certain items aren’t included in the package. Food and drinks aren’t provided, so you will need to plan and purchase their own meals and refreshments.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users, as the terrain and nature of the reserve may pose challenges for these groups. Guests will need to make their own arrangements for any required accommodations or medical considerations.

The tour is designed for able-bodied individuals who can navigate the uneven ground and steep paths of the Valley of the Mills Nature Reserve. Proper footwear and attire are recommended to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

Meeting Point

Participants will meet their private guide at Piazza Duomo in Amalfi, by the large white fountain located on Via Duca Mansone I, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italia. This central meeting point is easy to find and provides a convenient starting point for the tour.

From here, the group will embark on their private 3-hour adventure through the Valley of the Mills Nature Reserve.

The meeting location is in the heart of Amalfi, just steps away from the iconic Amalfi Cathedral.

Participants should arrive a few minutes early to ensure a punctual departure.

The guide will be holding a sign or wearing a branded shirt to help identify themselves.

Once everyone has arrived, the group will set off to explore the protected natural wonders of the Amalfi Coast.

Visiting the Ruins

After gathering at the meeting point, the group ventures forth into the Valley of the Mills Nature Reserve, where they’ll first explore the crumbling ruins of the Basilica di Sant’Eustacchio. Once a thriving church, the basilica now stands in a state of decay, its walls and columns partially reclaimed by the lush vegetation. As the guide shares the history of this once-grand structure, the group takes in the serene atmosphere and imagines the daily life that once bustled around it. The visit to the ruins sets the stage for the adventure ahead, whetting the group’s appetite for the natural wonders that await them deeper within the reserve.

Feature	Description
Architectural Style	Romanesque
Construction Era	11th-12th century
Current Condition	Partially ruined
Historical Significance	Important religious site in Amalfi’s past

Exploring the Nature Reserve

Venturing deeper into the protected nature reserve, the group marvels at the cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation that thrives in the secluded valley. The guide expertly navigates the winding trails, pointing out rare plant species and explaining how the natural environment has shaped the history and culture of the Amalfi Coast.

Witnessing the powerful waterfalls that once powered the historic paper mills.

Spotting unique flora like the Amalfi lemon and the Amalfi coast violet.

Learning about the importance of the chestnut forests and olive groves in the local economy.

Immersing oneself in the tranquil serenity of this hidden ecological gem.

Upgrade: Lunch at a Local Farmhouse

For those seeking an even more immersive experience, the tour can be upgraded to include a lunch at a local farmhouse overlooking the picturesque Amalfi Coast.

Guests can savor authentic regional cuisine prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients while taking in the stunning vistas of the valley below.

The farmhouse offers a chance to connect with the land and its people, providing a glimpse into the traditional way of life on the coast.

Diners will enjoy a multi-course meal featuring dishes like handmade pasta, freshly caught seafood, and seasonal produce straight from the farm’s garden.

This upgrade offers a truly unique and memorable dining experience to complement the natural wonders explored during the Valley of the Mills tour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for the tour. However, it is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities and terrain involved.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

There is no specific mention of discounts for students or seniors on this tour. The tour operator may offer discounted rates, but these would need to be inquired about directly with them.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Sorry, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator has strict policies in place for the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Only registered service animals are permitted.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Italian, French, and Spanish. Guests can request their preferred language when booking the tour, and the licensed guide will accommodate their needs.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, you can extend the duration of the tour. The standard tour is 3 hours, but you may be able to customize or upgrade the experience to include additional time or activities. Check with the tour provider for available options and pricing.

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