Best hiking trails on the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Coast
Hiking trails are a great way to quietly enjoy the nature of the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Coast. This strip of Italy’s coastline abuts a mountain range, the Monti Lattari, which directly faces the sea. This means that every hiking adventure results in a collection of breathtaking views.
But what are the best hiking trails on the Amalfi Coast? Here’s our list.
5 hiking trails on the Amalfi Coast you shouldn’t miss
Path of the Gods
The Path of the Gods, or Sentiero degli Dei in Italian, is probably the most popular of the hiking trails on the Amalfi Coast. Named after the legends that say it was once used by the gods to communicate with each other, the path offers great views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.
The Path of the Gods starts in the village of Bomerano, which you can reach by bus from Amalfi or Positano. From Bomerano, the trail climbs up the Lattari Mountains. It is well marked and maintained, but can be steep and narrow in some sections.
As you hike along the trail, you will pass through beautiful forests of oak and chestnut trees, as well as fields of wildflowers and herbs. The trail also passes by several old farmhouses and shepherd huts, which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life on the Amalfi Coast.
One of the highlights of the Path of the Gods is the panoramic view from the highest point of the trail, from which you can see the coastline, the island of Capri, and the Gulf of Naples. The trail then descends towards the village of Nocelle, which is located near Positano. From Nocelle, you can take a bus or walk down the stairs to Positano, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea or a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants.
Valle delle Ferriere
Among the best hiking trails on the Amalfi Coast is Via delle Ferriere, located in the Valle delle Ferriere nature reserve, near the town of Amalfi. The trail follows the course of the Canneto river, passing through a lush green valley filled with waterfalls, streams, and vegetation.
The hike starts in the town of Amalfi, where you can follow the signs to the nature reserve. After crossing the bridge over the river, the trail starts to climb steadily up the valley, passing by several waterfalls and small streams. Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes.
As you hike through the valley, you will see a variety of flora and fauna, including ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. The valley is also home to a variety of birds and animals, including otters, foxes, and wild boars.
One of the highlights of the hike is the ruins of an old paper mill, which was once used to produce the famous Amalfi paper. The mill is now abandoned, but the ruins are still visible and offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the area.
The trail eventually leads to the village of Pontone, where you can stop for a break and enjoy some of the local cuisine. From Pontone, you can continue on to the town of Scala, or return to Amalfi via the same trail.
Monte Tre Calli
Monte Tre Calli is a challenging but rewarding hiking trail. It starts in the village of Agerola and leads to the summit of Monte Tre Calli, which is the highest peak in the mountain range.
The hike is approximately 15 kilometers long and takes about 6-7 hours to complete. In some parts it is quite difficult, for these reasons it is a good choice only if you are an experienced hiker with good physical fitness.
As you hike up the mountain, you will pass through a variety of landscapes, including forests of oak and chestnut trees, fields of wildflowers and herbs, and rocky outcroppings with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trail also passes by several old farmhouses and shepherd huts, which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life on the Amalfi Coast.
The descent from the summit is steep and rocky, but also offers beautiful views of the valley below. The trail eventually leads back to the village of Agerola.
Punta Campanella
Punta Campanella is a beautiful natural reserve located at the southern tip of the Sorrento Peninsula, between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich history, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
One of the main reasons Punta Campanella is good for hiking is its network of well-marked trails that wind through the reserve. These trails offer a variety of routes, from easy walks to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area at their own pace.
The trails offer stunning views of the sea, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains, providing ample opportunities for photography and relaxation. The area is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids, wildflowers, and migratory birds, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
The history of the area is also an attraction for hikers. Punta Campanella was an important trading post in ancient times and is home to several archaeological sites, including the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. The area also played a role in the events of World War II, with several bunkers and fortifications still visible along the coastline.
Finally, Punta Campanella is also known for its secluded beaches and coves, which can be accessed by some of the hiking trails. These beaches offer a chance to relax and swim in crystal-clear waters, away from the crowds and noise of more touristy destinations.
Il Sentiero dei Limoni
The Sentiero dei Limoni, also known as the Lemon Path, is a picturesque hiking trail that winds its way through terraced lemon groves. It connects the towns of Maiori and Minori and offers stunning views of the coastline, the sea, and the surrounding mountains.
The trail is approximately 2.5 kilometers long and takes about 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your pace. It is a relatively easy hike, with a gentle incline and well-maintained paths, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
As you hike along the Lemon Path, you will pass by a series of ancient lemon groves, where locals have been cultivating lemons for centuries. The lemon trees are planted in terraces, supported by stone walls, and are irrigated by a network of canals and wells. The lemons from this area are highly prized for their sweet, tangy flavor and are used to make Limoncello, a traditional Italian liqueur.
In addition to the lemon groves, the trail also offers beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. You will pass by several small beaches and coves, which are perfect for a quick swim or a relaxing picnic. The trail also leads to the Torre di Minori, an ancient watchtower that was once used to protect the coastline from pirates and invaders.
These are just a few of the many hiking trails available on the Amalfi Coast. Each trail offers a unique experience and stunning views, making it a great destination for hiking enthusiasts. And if you are looking for a place to stay, take a look at our luxury villas for rent on the Amalfi&Sorrento Coast.
