Path of the Gods: Walking Among the Clouds on the Amalfi Coast
The Sentiero degli Dei—Path of the Gods—earned its name from ancient Greeks who believed these heights were where deities walked between their temples. Today, it's considered one of Europe's most spectacular coastal hikes: a 7-kilometer trail carved into cliffs 500 meters above the Mediterranean, connecting the village of Bomerano to Nocelle above Positano.
Trail Overview
Distance: 7.8 km (4.8 miles)
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: Start at 650m, end at 450m (mostly downhill Bomerano to Nocelle)
The trail traverses the spine of the Lattari Mountains, offering continuous views of the coastline, Capri, and on clear days, the distant peaks of Calabria. You'll pass through Mediterranean scrubland, terraced vineyards abandoned to wildflowers, and rocky passages that open suddenly to heart-stopping panoramas.
How to Reach the Trailhead
From Ravello: Take the SITA bus to Amalfi, then bus to Agerola-Bomerano. Total travel time approximately 1 hour. Early morning buses recommended.
From Positano: Bus to Praiano junction, then to Bomerano. Alternatively, start from Nocelle (near Positano) and hike east—uphill but equally beautiful.
Recommended direction: Bomerano to Nocelle (west to east). This is mostly downhill and puts the best views ahead of you rather than behind.
What to Expect
The path is well-marked and maintained but not paved. You'll encounter rocky sections, occasional steep descents, and narrow passages along cliff edges (secured but requiring attention). The trail passes through several tunnels of vegetation where shade provides relief.
Highlights include: the viewpoint above Praiano, the abandoned villages of the upper coast, the descent to Nocelle with Positano revealed below, and constant, ever-changing perspectives of the Mediterranean.
Best Time to Hike
Best months: April, May, September, October. Spring wildflowers add color; autumn light is spectacular. See our complete seasonal guide.
Avoid: Midday in summer (too hot), rainy days (slippery and cloudy), July-August crowds (start before 8am if hiking in high season).
Start early: Morning light is best for photography, temperatures are cooler, and trails are quieter.
Essential Preparation
- Footwear: Proper hiking shoes or sturdy trainers with grip. Not sandals or fashion sneakers.
- Water: Minimum 1.5 liters. No reliable water sources along the trail.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. Limited shade.
- Snacks: Energy bars, fruit. No food vendors until Nocelle.
- Phone: Download offline maps. Signal is intermittent.
After the Hike
From Nocelle, you can descend 1,700 steps to Positano (40 minutes, demanding on tired legs) or take the local bus. Reward yourself with lunch in Positano, beach time, and an evening return to your accommodation.
Staying in Ravello makes the logistics straightforward: easy bus access to Bomerano, and you return to elevated comfort and views that complement your day's adventure.