The best walks and hikes in Campania

Embark on the moderate Il Sentiero degli Dei, or "Path of the Gods," a 6.6-mile (10.7 km) hike with 1441 feet (439 metres) of elevation gain that typically takes around 4 hours and 6 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, from fragrant Mediterranean scrub and terraced vineyards to rocky paths and some paved sections. Enjoy continuous panoramic vistas of the deep blue Tyrrhenian Sea, the picturesque towns of Positano and Praiano, and the iconic island of Capri with its Faraglioni rocks in the distance.

This popular route often starts in Agerola (Bomerano) and leads to Nocelle, offering a predominantly downhill or flat trajectory suitable for most individuals with basic fitness. While the main path is generally gentle, sections along cliffs require surefootedness. From Nocelle, you have the option to descend to Positano via approximately 1700 steps, which can be strenuous but rewarding.

The trail earns its name from an ancient Greek legend, suggesting deities once walked this route to rescue Ulysses from the sirens of the Li Galli islets. This mythological connection, combined with its unparalleled natural beauty, makes it one of Italy's most celebrated hikes. You will also see vestiges of ancient architecture and cultivated terraces, remnants of a time when this route was the sole link between local villages.

Embark on the challenging Path of the Gods, a difficult hike spanning 12.1 miles (19.4 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3752 feet (1143 metres). This route typically takes around 7 hours and 47 minutes to complete. As you traverse the trail, you will experience varied terrain, moving through fragrant Mediterranean scrub, past ancient farmlands, and alongside terraced vineyards. The atmosphere is one of ancient beauty, offering expansive views of the deep blue sea and the stunning Amalfi Coast. Keep an eye out for the iconic Faraglioni rocks of Capri island in the distance, a truly memorable sight.

When planning your hike, consider starting from Bomerano, as this popular section of the route towards Nocelle is mostly downhill. Be prepared for a substantial descent if you continue from Nocelle into Positano, as this involves navigating between 1,700 and 1,800 steps, which can be demanding on your knees. Alternatively, if you choose to begin your journey from Praiano, expect a steep ascent of approximately 1,900 steps just to reach the main trail. Factor in these considerations to best enjoy your experience on the Path of the Gods.

The Path of the Gods is renowned for its unique perspectives of the valleys below and the captivating Archipelago of the Sirens. This trail offers more than just physical exertion; it provides a journey through a landscape rich with history and natural beauty. You will encounter a blend of Mediterranean flora and ancient agricultural practices, giving you a sense of the region's enduring heritage. It stands out as a quintessential Amalfi Coast experience, connecting you directly with the dramatic coastal scenery.

Embark on the Sentiero degli Dei variant from Praiano, a difficult 14.7-mile (23.7 km) loop that takes about 10 hours and 1 minute to complete. This challenging route climbs 5362 feet (1634 metres) through fragrant Mediterranean scrub and terraced vineyards, offering spectacular coastal views. You will feel as if you are walking between the sky and the sea, with panoramas stretching to the iconic island of Capri and its dramatic Faraglioni rocks. The trail also winds through the mountainous landscapes and chestnut forests of the Parco Regionale dei Monti Lattari, providing an almost alpine feel in some sections.

Starting from Praiano, this variant of the Sentiero degli Dei is considered more difficult than the classic route. You will face a significant initial ascent involving over 1,000 stairs and an elevation gain of approximately 1,804 feet (550 meters) to reach the main Path of the Gods trail. This demanding climb can take roughly an hour, so it is recommended for hikers with a good fitness level who enjoy a strenuous uphill challenge. Once you connect to the main Path of the Gods, the trail generally becomes more moderate, often with a gentle downhill slope if you head towards Nocelle.

The Sentiero degli Dei is widely recognized as one of Italy's best hiking trails and a quintessential Amalfi Coast experience. It delivers awe-inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and the surrounding Monti Lattari Mountains. The trail is steeped in ancient legend, believed to be the path where Greek deities once walked to save Ulysses from the Sirens of the Li Galli islets. For those staying in Praiano, this variant provides direct access to the famous trail, albeit through its demanding initial climb.

Embark on the Ravello, Amalfi, and Path of the Lemons Loop, a difficult hike that immerses you in the vibrant landscapes of the Amalfi Coast. This challenging route covers 10.6 miles (17.1 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3000 feet (914 metres), typically taking around 6 hours and 4 minutes to complete. You will traverse fragrant terraced lemon groves and ancient mule tracks, offering a rich blend of agricultural charm and dramatic coastal vistas. Expect to encounter vibrant flowering plants and varied terrain, from paved sections to natural dirt trails. The trail rewards your effort with unparalleled panoramic views, including the iconic town of Positano cascading down the hillsides and the expansive Gulf of Salerno.

Before you set out, be aware that this difficult loop demands very good physical fitness due to its significant elevation changes and numerous steps. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential for navigating the varied terrain, which includes ancient mule tracks and natural dirt paths. While the Sentiero dei Limoni section is generally less strenuous, the overall difficulty of the hike remains high. Plan to start early in the day to allow ample time for completion and to avoid the midday heat, especially during warmer months.

This extensive loop offers a comprehensive experience of the Amalfi Coast's diverse landscapes within the Parco Regionale dei Monti Lattari. It combines the famous Sentiero dei Limoni, known for its terraced lemon groves, with dramatic coastal sections. The route provides numerous viewpoints, allowing you to appreciate the unique geography where mountains meet the sea. This trail is a notable way to explore both the agricultural heritage and the stunning maritime scenery of the region.

Embark on the Punta Campanella loop hike, a difficult 4.2-mile (6.8 km) journey with 1363 feet (416 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 46 minutes. Starting from Termini, you will follow ancient cobblestoned paths like the Via Minerva, which transitions into dirt trails through olive groves and along rugged cliffs. The route offers continuous views of Capri Island and the Tyrrhenian Sea, with opportunities to see the Bay of Ieranto and the charming Cala Mitigliano. If you extend your hike to Monte San Costanzo, you will be rewarded with a magnificent 360-degree panorama encompassing the Amalfi Coast, the Gulf of Salerno, and even Mount Vesuvius.

Planning your visit requires understanding the trail's varying difficulty. While the main path to Punta Campanella is often considered easier, extending the loop to include Monte San Costanzo significantly increases the challenge, involving steeper rocky inclines. This longer version is suited for experienced hikers. The trail begins in Termini, and it is advisable to be prepared for a demanding hike if you choose the full loop.

This trail is notable for its unique blend of history, mythology, and natural beauty. You will walk through an area rich with ancient Greek and Roman history, including remnants of a temple dedicated to Athena and Minerva, Roman stone-paved paths, and a medieval Saracen watchtower. Legends suggest this was where Ulysses encountered the Sirens. As part of the Area Naturale Marina Protetta Punta Campanella, the route also offers a chance to experience the protected natural environment of the Sorrentine Peninsula.

Embark on the Infreschi Trail, a moderate hike that winds through the stunning Mediterranean woods and olive groves of the Cilento coast. This route spans 6.1 miles (9.8 km) and involves an elevation gain of 1254 feet (382 metres), typically taking about 3 hours and 4 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will be treated to spectacular sea views, with the path leading you towards the wild beaches of Pozzallo and Cala Bianca, culminating at the famous Baia degli Infreschi.

Before you set out, be aware that the trail features diverse terrain, including gravel, natural paths, and footpaths, with some sections presenting inclines and declines. A fairly steep climb at the beginning means you should have a reasonable level of physical condition to enjoy the experience fully. Sturdy shoes are highly recommended to navigate the varied surfaces comfortably and safely.

The Infreschi Trail is a highlight within the Parco Nazionale del Cilento, Vallo di Diano e Alburni, renowned for its natural beauty. The Baia degli Infreschi itself is particularly notable for its crystal clear waters and unique freshwater springs that flow directly into the sea, creating a distinctive natural phenomenon. This blend of coastal scenery and geological features makes it one of the most popular hikes in the region.

Embark on the Monte Epomeo loop tour, a moderate 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hike that climbs 990 feet (302 metres) to the highest point on the Island of Ischia. This route typically takes about 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete, offering a rewarding experience. You will start on paved roads that gradually ascend through villages, then transition to natural mountain paths winding through cultivated terraces and shady chestnut forests. As you near the summit, expect sections with slippery boulders and steps carved into the rock, leading to the incredible 360-degree panoramic view from the top.

While the trail is generally well-marked, good fitness and sure-footedness are recommended, especially on the rocky sections closer to the peak. The most popular starting point is Fontana, which offers a quicker route to the summit, though you can also begin your hike from Forio or Casamicciola. Proper hiking shoes are essential for navigating the varied terrain, which includes sunken mule tracks and narrow gullies carved into the tuff rock.

At the summit, you will discover the historic Chiesa di San Nicola, a 15th-century church carved directly into the mountain's tuff rock, which once served as a hermitage. A rustic restaurant, also partly carved into the rock, provides a chance to enjoy local specialties while taking in the expansive views. From this vantage point, you can see the entire island of Ischia, the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, Capri, and even distant islands on a clear day, highlighting Ischia's nickname, "the Green Island," due to its abundant vegetation.