Italy - Walking the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Peninsula

When Arriving at the train station in Salerno, go outside the arrival hall and look for the SITA busses (Blue).  Remember to purchase the ticket at the tabaccio stand, before you board the bus, and remember to validate the ticket in the machine once on the bus. SITA buses run every half hour along the Amalfi Coast and stop in Cetara, Ravello, Amalfi, Positano, Positano and Sorrento. Bus tickets to Amalfi costs about 6 €.

After arrival and check-in at the hotel, it is possible to go for a little stroll around the charming center of the village, or maybe even take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea just to cool off after the journey.

Hotel example: Hotel Lidomare***

walking time 4-5 hours

The first stage of the walking tour, is easy and gives a great insight into the unique natural and cultural heritage of the Amalfi Coast. Walk through the small quiet alleys of Amalfi, where the strong Moorish influence is still obvious. An ancient staircase leads up under the mighty limestone cliffs towards the small village of Pontone, which is part of Amalfi's medieval fortifications. The main attraction here is the Torre dello zirro, located on a narrow ridge. To one side you have the view of Amalfi, on the other side you can admire the coast village of Atrani. After passing Pontone the trail runs down the Valle dei Muilini (Vally of the water mills). Here you find the ruins of Europe's oldest paper mills, which dates back to the 11th century, and the pleasant path follows the river running through a vast green landscape. Back in Amalfi it is worth visiting the paper museeum before heading back to the hotel.

Hotel example: Hotel Lidomare***

Walking time 4-5 hours

Start the day by taking a local bus to the small village Bomerano, located on Agerolas plateau. It is just outside this village that the famous 'Sentiero degli dei' (the Footpath of the Gods) begins, and as one of Italy's most famous footpaths it offers unforgetable views. After a very panoramic stretch, overlooking the Amalfi coast all the way to the island of Capri, the path leads to the San Domenico monastery. Continue along the now more or less flat trail through spectacular rock formations and lush scenery. The trail runs all the way to Nocelle and shortly after you will reach the village of Montepertuso. From here it is only a short walk to Positano. Positano is known to be one of Italy's most beautiful villages and one of the prettiest pearls on the Coast of Amalfi. After a stroll through the narrow alleys, you will arrive at your hotel, located in the city center, within walking distance to the beach.

Hotel example: Hotel Pupetto***

Walking time 4-5 hours

Take a bus back up to Montepertuso, which is the starting point for a beautiful hike in the upper vally of Positano. On ancient forest trails spiced up with amazing view points, you will reach the old fortress of Santa Maria al Castello, which is situated on a ridge, separating the Amalfi- from the Sorrento side of the peninsula. From here you have a clear view over both the Gulf of Salerno and the Bay of Naples. The descent takes you through a vegetated area to the Caserma Forestale (a Forest Service office). If you are up for it, you can climb from Monte Sant'Angelo, the highest peak on the peninsula, and a demanding but rewarding climb. The hike down continues through the forest and winds its way back to Montepertuso. Continue down to Positano along a medieval mule track.

Hotel example: Hotel Pupetto***

Walking time 3-5 hours

After breakfast you can either take a local bus (or taxi) or walk from Positano to Colli di Fontanelle. This route passes the church of Santa Maria al Castello and mountains: Monte Comune and Monte Vico Alvano. From Colli di Fontanelle you will follow the small path that runs parallel to the coastline. After a steep descent the trail continues through olive groves towards the hamlet Torca. From here it continues down to Marina di Crapolla, where you can visit a small beautiful church, which is built in the honor of Saint Peter. It is also possible to take a dip in the sea before walking up to the charming agriturismo, where you are staying for the night. Here you will enjoy an evening meal made ??from local, organic ingredients.

Hotel example: Agriturismo Le Tore

Walking time 3-5 hours

Today's hike will take you to Punta Campanelle, the tip of the Sorrento peninsula, where you can look directly across to the isle of Capri. You can either follow the Alta Via dei Monti Lattari trail, that runs all the way from your accommodation, or you can take a local bus to Termini, which is the last village. From here a staircase leads up to the little church of San Costanzo, where you have 360 degree views of both the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. A path runs along the spectacular cliffs of the cape and leads you to the tip of the peninsula, where Odysseus according the legends, built a temple dedicated to Athena. Returning from Punta Campanelli and Termini is done on a convenient path, the ancient Roman Via Minerva, and brings beautiful views of Capri, before it takes you back to the agrituristmo for another dinner and night.

Hotel example: Agriturismo Le Tore

Walking time 3-5 hours

Today's walk goes to Sorrento and you can choose from several options, depending on how you will divide the day between walking and shopping/sightseeing in Sorrento. A beautiful route passes through the nice, historic city Massalu Brense, and through several small villages. the trail is surrounded by olive and lemon groves, and a possible detour goes past the historic castle, from where General Napoleon watched the siege of Capri. A short trail leads through Sant'Agata directly to Sorrento. Whichever route you choose, you will arrive at Sorrento at the gorgeous view point, from which artists through the centuries have depicted Sorrento. Go through the town and enjoy the view of the bay from one of the many outdoor restaurants before you check in at your hotel.

Hotel example: Hotel Astoria

Walking time 3-5 hours

Sorrento is the starting point for many interesting excursions: a day trip to Capri or a visit to Pompeii. There are also great opportunities for easy walks or a swim in the sea. It is a beautiful hike to the Capo di Sorrento and down to the large Roman villa situated on the cape. Depending on your desire to extend the walk you can go to the small fishing village of Marina di Puolo, before returning to Sorrento.

Hotel example: Hotel Astoria

After breakfast, take the train, bus or ferry back to Naples or Rome.