The Small Village of Erchie, near Maiori, Amalfi Coast
In the municipality of Maiori, on the Amalfi Coast, lies Erchie, a small, tranquil village that captures the heart with its stunning natural beauty, historic charm, and peaceful ambiance. While it might not boast the fame of Positano, Ravello or Amalfi, it offers a unique and intimate experience that is worth living.
Why Visit Erchie?
Erchie is completely out of the bustling crowds that often characterize the Amalfi Coast.
The centerpiece of the village is its beautiful beach, a crescent of soft pebbles embraced by towering cliffs. The turquoise waters are calm and ideal for swimming, and the beach’s more secluded nature ensures a quieter, more private experience. That’s why it is especially popular with locals, and this is good if you are looking for some authentic charm.
Surrounded by terraced lemon groves and Mediterranean greenery, the village offers spectacular views and a quintessential Amalfi Coast atmosphere. The narrow, winding streets and traditional whitewashed houses make every corner feel like a postcard.
A visit to Erchie can be great even if you are aiming for a cultural experience. The village dates back to Roman times, when it served as a small fishing community and its name is believed to derive from Hercules, the legendary hero. Today, it is home to a well-preserved Saracen Tower, a relic from the days when coastal towns had to fend off pirate attacks.
While in Erchie don’t forget to try the local cuisine. The handful of family-run restaurants serve fresh seafood and traditional dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and limoncello, one of the most popular liqueurs made from locally grown lemons.
How to Get to Erchie
Erchie is a bit off the beaten path.To reach it, you must first arrive in Maiori, one of the towns on the Amalfi Coast, by car o by bus. From Maiori to Erchie it is about 5km. If you prefer you can take a walk and enjoy the spectacular views of the sea and cliffs.
While Erchie does not have a large marina, some private boat tours along the Amalfi Coast include stops at its beach. You can also rent a small boat or jsoin a local excursion to enjoy the village from the water.
A Visit to Maiori
Maiori, located just a short distance from Erchie, is a vibrant seaside town on the Amalfi Coast known for its expansive sandy beach—the longest on the coastline. However, it is home to interesting attractions such as the Castello di San Nicola de Thoro-Plano, a medieval fortress with sweeping views, or the frescoes of the Santa Maria de Olearia, an ancient Benedictine abbey. After taking a stroll along the lovely promenade, take a break to sample traditional dishes or a tasty gelato and enjoy the combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and peaceful ambiance. If you have time, also drop by the nearby town of Cetara to taste the typical Colatura di Alici.
For your stay, choose one of our villas for rent on the Amalfi Coast.
