As a private chauffeur in Italy, some moments stay with you forever. Let me share one of those magical experiences from last summer that perfectly captures why I love what I do.
It was a warm evening in 2023, after I had just completed a transfer from Civitavecchia to Sorrento with a lovely couple. While waiting for my clients to prepare for their dinner at Nalù Trattoria Italiana, I found myself with one of those rare precious moments that remind us why the Amalfi Coast is truly special.
The sun was beginning to set over the Bay of Naples, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks. I remembered a local secret shared by other drivers – a tiny lemon granita stand run by the legendary Zio Peppe. Following their advice, I made my way up the winding road to find his small cart perched perfectly against the sunset.
Zio Peppe himself was there, wearing his characteristic red apron and greeting everyone with the warmth that only true Sorrentini can master. His granita di limone isn’t just a drink – it’s an institution, made with local Sorrento lemons that are famous throughout Italy for their intense fragrance and sweetness.
As I sipped the perfectly balanced icy drink, watching the sun slowly dip into the Mediterranean, I understood why my passengers often fall in love with this corner of Italy. The view spread out before me encompassed everything magical about the region – the dramatic cliffs, the charming houses cascading down to the sea, and that incredible golden light that seems to exist nowhere else.
For those planning a visit to Sorrento, I always recommend taking time for these simple pleasures. Yes, the famous restaurants and luxury hotels are wonderful, but sometimes the most memorable experiences come from these authentic moments – enjoying a humble granita from a local legend while watching nature’s daily masterpiece unfold.
As a driver, I’m privileged to witness countless sunsets along this coast, but that evening, with Zio Peppe’s granita in hand and the peaceful bay before me, remains one of my fondest memories of life on the Amalfi Coast.
Want to experience this yourself? I’d be happy to take you there. Just remember – always make time for the sunset, and never pass up Zio Peppe’s granita. Some traditions are worth preserving, and some moments are worth savoring.