Hiking on the Amalfi Coast - The Ultimate Guide
Hiking on the Amalfi Coast is an unforgettable experience that combines breathtaking natural beauty with a deep sense of history and culture. This stunning region, known for its dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and charming villages, offers some of the most scenic and rewarding hiking trails in Italy. Whether you're walking through lemon groves, exploring ancient ruins, or gazing out over the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, each trail provides a unique perspective on this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best time to hike on the Amalfi Coast is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the trails are less crowded. Summer can be very hot and busy, while winter, although quieter, might bring some rain and cooler temperatures. To make the most of your hike, wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and consider starting early in the day to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the peaceful mornings.
1. Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)
The Path of the Gods is perhaps the most iconic hiking trail on the Amalfi Coast. Starting in the village of Bomerano and ending in Nocelle, this trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The path winds along cliffs and through small forests, providing hikers with a mix of natural beauty and ancient history. The route takes about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace, and offers spectacular views of terraced vineyards, ancient stone houses, and the distant islands of Capri and Li Galli.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
- Length: Approximately 7.8 km (4.8 miles)
- How to Get There: To reach Bomerano, take a bus from Amalfi or Agerola. The trail ends in Nocelle, a small village above Positano. From Nocelle, you can either walk down to Positano or take a bus.
- Starting Point: The trail starts in the village of Bomerano, which is part of Agerola.
2. Valley of the Mills (Valle dei Mulini)
The Valley of the Mills is a less crowded but equally beautiful hike that begins in the town of Amalfi and leads into a lush, green valley. The trail follows a path that once served as the industrial heart of Amalfi, where numerous mills produced paper using the abundant water supply from the surrounding streams. The hike takes you through dense forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along ancient ruins of the mills that date back to the 13th century. The trail is relatively easy and provides a peaceful escape into nature.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
- Length: Approximately 6 km (3.7 miles)
- How to Get There: The trail begins in Amalfi, which can be reached by bus or ferry from nearby towns like Positano or Salerno.
- Starting Point: The trailhead is in the center of Amalfi, near the Piazza Duomo.
3. Valley of the Ferriere (Valle delle Ferriere)
This trail, also starting from Amalfi, leads to the nature reserve known as Valle delle Ferriere. It’s a magical journey through a landscape filled with rare plants, including giant ferns and wild orchids. The valley is named after the old ironworks (ferriere) that were once powered by the river's waters. The path follows the course of the river, with multiple small waterfalls and pools along the way, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers. The trail is moderate in difficulty and offers a serene atmosphere, far from the crowds of the coast.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
- Length: Approximately 7 km (4.3 miles)
- How to Get There: Like the Valley of the Mills, this trail starts in Amalfi. Buses and ferries from nearby towns like Positano or Salerno will get you to Amalfi.
- Starting Point: The trail begins in Amalfi’s Piazza Duomo, near the Cathedral of St. Andrew.
4. Lemon Path (Sentiero dei Limoni)
Connecting the towns of Maiori and Minori, the Lemon Path is a delightful walk through the famous lemon groves of the Amalfi Coast. This short but sweet trail is perfect for those looking for a less challenging hike that still offers stunning views. As you walk along the path, you’ll be surrounded by the scent of fresh lemons, with the sparkling sea below. The trail also offers a glimpse into the traditional agricultural practices of the region, with terraced fields and old stone farmhouses. The walk can be completed in about an hour and is ideal for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours
- Length: Approximately 3 km (1.9 miles)
- How to Get There: Maiori and Minori are connected by buses along the Amalfi Coast. You can also reach Maiori by ferry from Salerno or Amalfi.
- Starting Point: The trail can be started in either Maiori or Minori. Both towns are easily accessible by bus or ferry.
5. Lavello Path (Sentiero di Lavello)
The Lavello Path connects the town of Agerola with the area of Lavello, offering stunning views of the Amalfi Coast from above. This trail is less well-known, making it a great option for those seeking a quieter experience. The path leads through wooded areas and along rocky cliffs, with several viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the coast and the islands in the distance. The hike is moderate in difficulty and can be completed in 2-3 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass by traditional stone houses and terraced vineyards, providing a glimpse into the rural life of the region.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
- Length: Approximately 5.5 km (3.4 miles)
- How to Get There: Agerola can be reached by bus from Amalfi or Naples. Lavello is a less-known area, and you may need to arrange for transport back to Agerola or another nearby town after completing the hike.
- Starting Point: The trail starts in the town of Agerola.
6. Medieval Amalfi Trail
Starting in the town of Ravello, this trail descends to Amalfi, passing through ancient medieval villages and historic churches. The trail offers a journey back in time, with stone steps leading down through narrow alleyways and past centuries-old buildings. As you hike, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coast and the Mediterranean Sea. The trail is relatively easy, with most of it being downhill, and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. Along the way, you can visit historic sites such as the Church of San Giovanni del Toro and the ruins of medieval fortifications.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
- Length: Approximately 4 km (2.5 miles)
- How to Get There: Ravello can be reached by bus from Amalfi or Scala. After completing the hike in Amalfi, you can return to Ravello by bus.
- Starting Point: The trail starts in Ravello, near the town center.
7. Punta Campanella
The hike to Punta Campanella is one of the most scenic and rewarding on the Amalfi Coast. This trail takes you to the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula, where you’ll find a lighthouse and stunning views of Capri and the Bay of Naples. The path starts in the village of Termini and follows an ancient Roman road, passing by olive groves and wildflower-filled meadows. The trail is relatively easy and can be completed in about 2 hours. At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the island of Capri, rising out of the sea in the distance.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 2 hours
- Length: Approximately 4 km (2.5 miles)
- How to Get There: Termini can be reached by bus from Sorrento. After the hike, you can return to Sorrento by bus from Termini.
- Starting Point: The trail starts in the village of Termini, which is the last village on the Sorrento Peninsula.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best hiking trails on the Amalfi Coast, helping you plan an unforgettable adventure in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. Whether you're seeking stunning views, a journey through history, or simply a peaceful walk through nature, the Amalfi Coast offers something for every hiker.