Hiking the Amalfi Coast’s Path of the Gods

Imagine pausing on a cliffside trail with the Mediterranean glittering far below, the scent of wild thyme and lemon blossom drifting on the breeze, and pastel-coloured villages clinging to dramatic limestone slopes.

This is the Amalfi Coast, a 30-mile stretch of southern Italy that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is known for its steep cliffs, colourful towns like Positano and Amalfi, and lemon terraces that line the shore.

Many people see it by boat. But on foot, you can move at a pace that lets you connect with the landscape and reach viewpoints you can’t access by road.

For solo travellers, an escorted walking holiday with Just You adds expert guidance, camaraderie and taken-care-of logistics, so you can relax and enjoy every step. In this guide, we’ll focus on the Path of the Gods and other unforgettable trails and towns you can explore on our Walking the Amalfi Coast tour.

Path of the Gods

Path of the God

What is the Path of the Gods?

The Path of the Gods is the Amalfi Coast’s most iconic walk – an ancient shepherds’ route skimming high above Praiano and Positano.

The classic way to walk it is from Bomerano in Agerola to Nocelle, brushing past fragrant Mediterranean scrub and old mule tracks carved into pale limestone.

You’ll follow red-and-white waymarks along balcony-like ledges, passing caves and shepherds’ shelters, with constant birds-eye views of the Sirenuse (Li Galli) islets and – on clear days – Capri.

Many walkers finish this classic journey by descending roughly 1,700 stone steps from Nocelle to Positano. You can also enjoy this region in your own time on our Pompeii, Sorrento & Bay of Naples tour. For those who desire a shorter walk, you could start at Nocelle and walk out and back along the balcony section for huge views without the descent.

Why is it called the Path of the Gods?

Local legend says the gods took this trail from the mountains to the sea to rescue Odysseus from the sirens that sang from offshore Li Galli islets. Whether or not you believe the myth, the name fits as the trail feels close to the sky, with wide, elevated views worthy of the divine. In Italian, it’s called Sentiero degli Dei.

How difficult is the Path of the Gods to hike?

It is a moderate walk and suitable for most people with reasonable fitness. The main route from Bomerano to Nocelle is about 7.8 km, and it takes three to four hours to complete at a leisurely pace.

Expect some rocky, uneven sections and some exposed stretches without barriers. The optional descent into Positano involves many steps, which can test the knees. Sturdy footwear with a good grip is essential, and trekking poles help on the steps. Carry water and sun protection.

Walk alone or with a guide?

The trail is well marked, so confident walkers can go self-guided. However, walking with a guide brings the route to life through local stories and ensures you don’t miss subtle viewpoints.

For solo travellers, a Just You escorted tour adds natural camaraderie and perfectly timed transfers direct to trailheads and pick-ups in Positano – so you save energy for the views, not untangling bus timetables.

At the finish, the sense of achievement is matched by the reward – descending into Positano for a celebratory Aperol on the beach, swapping photos and that proud “I did it” feeling either solo or with your walking companions.

What is the best time of year to walk the Path of the Gods?

Spring (late April through June) and autumn (September through early October) are ideal for moderate temperatures and clearer paths. But it is best to check the weather in advance to avoid a rainy walk.

Summer has long sunny days, but it can be very hot – start early and carry plenty of water. Winter may bring cooler, clearer skies, which means great views, but some exposed paths can be slippery after rain.

Positano: Jewel of the Coast

With buildings in pastel yellows, pinks, blues and terracotta, Positano is the Amalfi Coast’s postcard scene. Narrow lanes weave between small shops, cafés and hotels, leading to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, known for its majolica tiled dome.

After the views, unwind at Fornillo Beach, a quieter pebbled spot away from the main marina. Or have a coffee on a terrace overlooking the sea. If you have energy, enjoy a swim at Spiaggia Grande, the main beach.

Solo travellers will find plenty to explore, from shady benches in gardens to sea caves like Grotta di Fornillo, and hidden viewpoints made for photos. Don’t miss the fresh seafood or the local favourite, delizia al limone, a light lemon sponge.

It is the perfect pause before or after the Path of the Gods, with easy places to people-watch and savour the scene at your own pace.

Path of the Gods Positano descent

Path of the Gods Positano

Valle delle Ferriere and Amalfi

The Valle delle Ferriere offers a cooler, greener alternative to cliff walks. This trail runs from Pontone to Amalfi through chestnut woodland, mossy ironworks ruins, and paper mills that powered Amalfi’s fame.

The valley has its own microclimate, fed by waterfalls and sheltered from sea winds. It is home to rare plants, including the giant fern Woodwardia radicans, within the Riserva Naturale Orientata Valle delle Ferriere.

Underfoot, the going feels gentler than the coastal ledges, and the mist from cascades brings welcome freshness on warm days. The path spills into Amalfi, once a proud maritime republic. Here you will find the striped façade of the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, the Paper Museum and the bustling piazza.

This is also limoncello country. Look for tastings and tours to learn how the fragrant Amalfi lemons become the coast’s signature liqueur.

Read our guide on how to make the perfect Limoncello.

Faraglioni cliffs panorama,and the Tyrrhenian sea

Ravello – Gardens and Vistas

High above Amalfi, Ravello is a hilltop town known for drawing artists, musicians and writers. Stroll through the gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, with their terraces opening onto dramatic coastline views.

For walkers, the descent into Minori is a rewarding route through lemon terraces with coastal glimpses and stone steps. Buses connect Ravello and Amalfi for those who prefer to skip the climb, however transfers are included with Just You tours.

Beautiful Ravello village at summer, Amalfi coast

Punta Campanella Trail

Where the Amalfi and Sorrento coasts meet, the Punta Campanella trail follows the peninsula past a watchtower and the site of the Temple of Minerva. According to ancient tradition, this was also where the Sirens lured Odysseus.

The walk passes through wild herbs and open meadows. The highlight is the close-up view of Capri, one of the nearest mainland viewpoints.

The trail is moderate, around 4-5 miles out and back from Termini, and takes 2.5 to 3 hours. Carry water and sun protection as shade is limited. Expect varied flora and frequent seabird sightings in this protected marine reserve. It provides a different angle on the coastline compared with the Path of the Gods.

Other Amalfi Coast Trails

  • Sorrento Ridge Walk – from Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi, follow a panoramic ridge to the Il Deserto lookout beside the former Carmelite monastery. It’s a satisfying, moderate walk (typically 2–3 hours) along broad paths with sweeping twin-bay views: to the north, the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius, to the south, the Bay of Salerno and the Amalfi Coast.

  • Sentiero degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Path) – a short cliffside walk linking quiet lanes and little chapels, perfect for a golden-hour wander. Expect benches for sea-gazing, bougainvillaea-draped corners and peaceful photo spots far from the crowds.

  • The Fjord of Furore – a dramatic, fjord-like gorge with an arched bridge and a small beach. Check current access, as steps sometimes close for maintenance.

  • Conca dei Marini and the Emerald Grotto – this small fishing village hides the Grotta dello Smeraldo, a sea cave famous for its ethereal green light. Trails and old mule paths link Conca to nearby villages, passing lemon terraces and quiet coves.

Historic footpaths connect hamlets, chapels and terraces across the Amalfi Coast. Public transport and routes can be fiddly, which is why an escorted tour helps – guides handle timings while you enjoy the scenery. On our Walking The Amalfi Coast tour, the Sorrento ridge day offers epic views that you’ll never forget.

Learn more about our range of walking holidays for solo travellers.

Why Go with Just You?

Travelling solo doesn’t mean going it alone. On a Just You escorted walking holiday, you’ll join a small group of like-minded travellers, supported by our expert Holiday Directors and local guides who know every viewpoint and gelato stop.

Comfortable, well-located hotels, arranged transfers and seamless logistics mean you focus on the highlights – from cliff-edge panoramas on the Path of the Gods to cool valley pathways and Ravello’s exquisite gardens – without the stress of planning it yourself. You’ll have your own room, company when you want it and time to do your own thing too.

Ready to lace up your boots? Explore our Walking the Amalfi Coast tour and our broader collection of solo Italy holidays. Whether you’re drawn by lemon-scented terraces, legendary trails or long lunches by the sea, the Amalfi Coast walks are even better with friendly company and expert guidance.

Ready to go? Explore Just You’s solo Italy holidays, or speak to an advisor about our Walking the Amalfi Coast tour.

Let us take you there...

  1. Walking the Amalfi Coast

    Admire remote picturesque villages and stunning views as you get out and about in the great outdoors and explore the beautiful Amalfi Coast on foot.

    • Return flights
    • 7 nights in a 3-star hotel
    • 15 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners

    8 days from
    £1,699
    was £1,899