Hiking the Amalfi Coast: A Complete Trail Guide
Before roads carved along the cliffs, ancient paths connected the villages of this coast. Today, these trails offer the most rewarding way to experience the landscape—through lemon groves and terraced vineyards, past abandoned mills and medieval chapels, with views that no road can match.
The Essential Trails
Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods): The most famous trail. Bagnara to Nocelle (or reverse), 7km, 3-4 hours. Spectacular cliff-edge paths with views to Capri. Moderate difficulty. Start early to avoid crowds and heat.
Valle delle Ferriere: From Ravello through the Valley of the Mills to Amalfi. Waterfalls, rare ferns, and ruined paper mills. 5km, 3 hours. Mostly downhill. Cool even in summer.
Ravello to Minori: Gentle descent through lemon groves and villages. Ancient stepped paths. 3km, 1.5 hours. End with gelato at Minori beach.
Intermediate Trails
- Ravello to Scala to Amalfi: 8km loop through medieval villages
- Amalfi to Pogerola: 600 steps to panoramic village
- Atrani to Ravello: Direct 1.5km climb up ancient stairs
- Positano to Montepertuso: 1,700 steps to the "hole in the mountain"
Challenging Adventures
- Monte Comune (877m): Summit hike with 360° views
- Monte dell'Avvocata: Pilgrimage route to mountain sanctuary
- CAI Trail 300: Multi-day traverse of entire coast
Practical Hiking Tips
- Best season: April-June, September-October. Avoid July-August heat.
- Footwear: Proper hiking shoes essential—paths can be slippery
- Water: Carry at least 1.5L; few sources on trails
- Start time: Before 9am in summer to avoid heat
- Maps: Download offline maps; signals unreliable
- Guides: Highly recommended for remote trails
Hike from Your Villa
Ravello is the ideal hiking base—trails depart directly from town, and you return to villa comfort after your adventures. Pool, terrace, and sunset views await.