10 Favorite Reads on Italy: Week of April 20, 2015

Favorite Reads on Italy is a weekly roundup featuring interesting articles, fascinating experiences, and handy resources that we’ve come across during the week. If you come across a favorite read and would like to share it with us on Twitter, use the hashtag #browsingitaly.

This week’s roundup includes a fantastic read on Matera, a secret in Sardinia, alternatives to Italy’s renowned sights, the challenges of Via Francigena, and more.

10 Favorite Reads on Italy: April 20, 2015

A cave with a view by The New Yorker – If you have never been to Matera, here’s a convincing and detailed read why it is a must-see.

6 Enticing Alternatives to Italy’s Big Sights by Rough Guides – Fabulous alternatives if you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path getaway.

An Italian food tour is worth it for the balsamic alone, but fortunately, that’s just the beginning by National Post –  The traditional balsamic vinegar is nothing like you have ever tasted and you will not want any other substitute once you have tasted the real thing! Check out this video on how they make Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena D.O.P.

The Best Beach Towns in Tuscany by Around Tuscany – Summer is just around the corner and here is a list of some of the best places to soak up some of that Tuscan sun.

Monastero Santa Rosa: A Blissful Retreat on the Amalfi Coast by Conde Nast Traveler – Looking for a secluded getaway on the Amalfi Coast? This is it!

Finding the Height of Beauty on Capri by Ciao Amalfi – We were so glad to have made it up to Monte Solaro but have yet to visit Villa Jovis. More reason to plan another trip to Capri.

New Christo Work to Temporarily Bridge Italy’s Lake Iseo by The New York Times – Mark your calendars! This will take place over two weeks, in June 2016, where floating walkways lined with bright yellow fabric will create a walkway around Lake Iseo.

Italy beyond the tourist traps by The Seattle Times – Another article on Matera and the region Basilicata. As the region gets more media attention, the crowds will start trickling in. More reason to plan that visit sooner rather than later.

Secret Sardinia: The Hidden Beaches and Coves on Sant’Antioco Island by SundayWorld.com – Taking about places beyond the tourist trap, here’s a secret in Sardinia you want to be let in on if you are looking for unspoilt sandy beaches, hidden coves and historical towns and villages far from the throngs of sun worshippers. Next week, we will be “invading” Sardinia together with Igers Sardegna for the Invasioni Digitali events. You can follow along on our adventures on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

The Dilemma of the Modern Via Francigena by Ciao Lunigiana – Adapting to the present world, here’s a interesting read on the rerouting on some segments on Via Francigena and its controversy.

Have you come across any great reads or resources on Italy this week? Share them with us in the comments below.