THE BEST HIKING TRAILS ON THE AMALFI COAST
Are you a hiking enthusiast or do you love being outdoors? There are many hiking trails on the Amalfi Coast that you can tackle on your own or with friends, whether you are an expert or not. Read on to discover the best ones!
by Roberta Cascone
The Amalfi Coast is known worldwide for its breathtaking landscapes. Colorful villages that develop vertically, the green of the Lattari mountains that surround them, the blue sea that stretches as far as the eye can see... all this has made the Coast famous throughout the world and leaves anyone speechless!
With the end of summer, especially in the months of September and October, when the days are still clear but the temperatures drop and the cities become quieter again after the tourist invasion of the high season, there is a surefire way to enjoy the beauty of the Coast in a peaceful and always unique atmosphere: that is, by walking along one of the many paths that connect the villages since ancient times, among vegetable gardens, lemon groves and incredible views.
Trekking on the Amalfi Coast is truly an experience not to be missed: discover all the most beautiful trails and choose the one that suits you best!
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The view from the Path of the Gods
The most famous and breathtaking trails
There are places on the Amalfi Coast that need no introduction: the Path of the Gods and the Ferriere Valley are some of them!
The Path of the Gods is a hiking trail that connects Agerola to Positano. Be careful! This is a trail suitable for everyone but it is not short! Walking times range from 3 to 7 hours, so if you choose this path take into account the weather conditions and be prepared! In any case, you will be ecstatic: starting from Bomerano, you will be immersed in silence and tranquility and during the walk spectacular panoramic views will open up before you, with views of the islands of Li Galli and the Faraglioni of Capri.
The Ferriere Valley, on the other hand, is a nature reserve consisting of woods crisscrossed by streams-a cool place to take refuge even during the hottest times of the year. The Valley hike starts from the hamlet of Scala, Pontone, and ends in Amalfi. You will feel like you are entering an enchanted place! During the walk you can listen to the gentle sound of flowing water and admire up close the vegetation and the ruins of the old paper mills and ironworks that give the valley its name.
Short and scenic trails within walking distance of villages
Looking for hiking trails closer to town centers so you can combine physical activity with cultural and gastronomic activities? Then take note of these trails!
The Trail of Lemons originated as the only overland connection between the villages of Maiori and Minori, before the construction of State Road 163. It owes its name to the lemon groves along the path where, in addition, you will find spots where some locals sell fresh homemade lemonade. I recommend starting the trail from the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare in Maiori, climbing several steps from which you can admire its dome from a higher position. The trail takes about an hour and goes through the village of Torre in Minori; also stop at the Belvedere della Mortella, from which you can see Ravello, Amalfi and Atrani. When you arrive in Minori, you will be within walking distance of the Basilica of Santa Trofimena and the magnificent Sal de Riso pastry shop, where you can enjoy a sweet treat-it's definitely the perfect way to end your walk!
Another good option for those looking for a short but impressive route is the Trail of the Volpe Pescatrice (literally, a fishing fox)! This time we are in Furore, a village famous for its fjord. The path is named after a fantastic animal that is often depicted in the villages of the Coast, because it represents the dual nature of the locals, part farmers tied to the land, part fishermen who live in close contact with the sea. It starts from the Piazza del Carmine in the village of Sant'Elia and reaches, via a staircase of about 1,500 steps, the very fjord of Furore. The walking time is about 40 minutes: through a cleft in the mountain you will arrive gently at the sea, and along the way you will also happen to find boats parked here and there. At the end of the trek you can also take a refreshing bath, which is especially useful if you plan to retrace the path uphill.
The Path of Lemons and the Fjord of Furore
Trails rich in history and mystery
There are places on the Amalfi Coast that hark back to bygone eras and are steeped in mystery and spirituality. Some of these can be reached via equally fascinating paths: here are our favorites!
The first will lead you to the discovery of what remains of a medieval castle overlooking the sea: this is the Ziro Tower, the keep of the ancient castle of Scalella in Pontone, a hamlet of Scala. The castle was built by the Duchy of Amalfi in a strategic position on the gulf and overlooks the towns of Amalfi and Atrani. The Tower is all that remains of it and was the scene of a bloody affair: Giovanna D'Aragona was in fact imprisoned there with her children and found death there. The trail to the Tower takes about three hours and is of low difficulty: starting from the small square in Pontone, take the stairs to Via Fritto, then follow the directions to the tower. On the way, stop to appreciate the view: Amalfi, Atrani and the gulf sea from above are a unique sight!
The second path has as its destination a place of pilgrimage very dear to the Maioresi: the Shrine of Maria Santissima Avvocata. Tradition has it that the Virgin Mary appeared to a local shepherd and asked him to erect an altar there, becoming his protector or “advocate” in return. The shrine can be reached only by a few routes that start from the Abbey of Cava de' Tirreni, Cetara or Maiori. They are within everyone's reach although quite challenging. The path accessible from the Amalfi Coast starts from a flight of steps at Via Casale Alto in Maiori. After about half an hour of walking you will find a spring called “Acqua del Castagno” where you can take a break. Continue the hike to the Grottone, a cave overlooking a ravine, and then continue for about 5 km to the plateau that houses the Sanctuary. Trust me, the view from up there will pay you back for your effort!
So, if you want to enjoy the calm and the beauty of nature on the Amalfi Coast, set out on one of the trails we have recommended! You will discover a new side of this magnificent territory and it will be an unforgettable experience!
The Ziro tower and the Avvocata Sanctuary
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- For the Path of the Gods, Travelmar provides you with a convenient and efficient shuttle service! Starting from Amalfi, the shuttle will take you right to Bomerano, at the beginning of the trail. For more information click on this link.
- Whatever trail you decide to take, bring water bottles with fresh water and some snacks!
- Don't forget your sunglasses, a hat and camera, you'll need them!
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