Discover the Place
A journey through medieval villages, ancient myths, and beaches in the authentic heart of Cilento National Park.
Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park is a land of harmonious contrasts, where Mediterranean scrubland meets a sea of legendary purity. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this territory is the cradle of the Mediterranean Diet and the “Slow Life,” a place where time follows the rhythm of the seasons and the tides. Staying at Grand Hotel Santa Maria means finding yourself at the epicenter of this beauty, ready to discover villages suspended in time, protected marine areas, and an ancient history rooted in Greek mythology.
Santa Maria di Castellabate
The Village by the Sea
Santa Maria is the beating heart of our hospitality, an ancient seaside village that stretches along the renowned Pozzillo Beach. Characterized by historic buildings overlooking the sea and an enchanting promenade, this hamlet offers an atmosphere that is both lively and refined. Here, the crystal-clear waters awarded the Blue Flag meet the convenience of a stroll among artisan shops and historic cafés, just steps from our hotel.
Castellabate
The Enchantment of the Medieval Village
Perched on the hill overlooking the entire bay, the medieval village of Castellabate is a labyrinth of stone alleyways, arches, and panoramic squares. A celebrated film location and UNESCO jewel, the historic center revolves around the Castello dell’Abate, from which you can enjoy breathtaking views stretching as far as Capri. It is the ideal place to lose yourself in the silence of history, among landscapes that seem painted and an elegance of bygone times.
San Marco di Castellabate
The Harbor and History
A short distance from the hotel lies San Marco, a hamlet known for its characteristic tourist and fishing harbor. This village preserves traces of a Roman past, visible in the submerged structures of the ancient landing. San Marco is the gateway to excursions toward Punta Licosa and offers an authentic experience connected to maritime culture: here you can observe the return of fishing boats and savor the catch of the day in a setting of absolute tranquility and maritime charm.
Punta Licosa
The Myth of the Siren
Punta Licosa is one of the wildest and most evocative places along the entire Cilento coast, located at the center of a protected marine reserve. According to legend, the siren Leucosia let herself die here for unrequited love, giving her name to the islet that dominates the promontory. The area, accessible via paths through pine forests, offers secluded coves and transparent seabeds, representing a true paradise for lovers of coastal trekking and snorkeling in pristine waters.
Paestum
The Majesty of Ancient Greece
Less than thirty minutes by car from Grand Hotel Santa Maria, Paestum represents one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Its three Doric temples, extraordinarily preserved, stand against the sky offering a spectacle of rare beauty. Walking among the ruins of ancient Poseidonia is a mystical experience that unites the grandeur of Greek civilization with the peace of the Cilento countryside, making it an essential stop for every lover of history and art.
