The Path of the Gods, or Sentiero degli Dei, is a high trail that runs along the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast between the village of Bomerano and the hamlet of Nocelle. It follows old mule tracks and shepherds' paths some five hundred metres above the water, passing terraces, small farms, caves and stretches of open hillside where the whole coast seems to fall away beneath you. Views take in Positano, the rocky Li Galli islets, the Faito range and, on a clear day, Capri. The classic route takes roughly three to four hours at an easy pace and covers around eight kilometres, with most of the trail gently rolling rather than steeply uphill. Many walkers finish in Nocelle and descend the long stone staircase into Positano, a knee-testing drop of well over a thousand steps, while others stop at Nocelle and take a bus. The name comes from the legend that the gods walked here, and the scenery makes the story easy to believe. The trail is known for its changing light, its wild herbs and its quiet, and it feels a world away from the crowded streets of the coast below.
The tour linked here is a guided Path of the Gods trek with a name that matches the trail and a departure from Sorrento. A guide solves the main practical problem of this walk, which is logistics: the trail is a one-way route, the start is reached by road, and the finish is a staircase or a bus ride away. Going with a group means transport is arranged and you can concentrate on walking.
Conditions matter. The path is narrow in places, with drops at the edge and rocky, uneven footing, so wear proper walking shoes with grip rather than trainers or sandals. After rain the stones are slippery, and in winter the trail can be cold, wet and cloudy, with the views lost altogether. The best conditions are clear, dry days, when visibility is excellent and the air is fresh.
Carry water, a light waterproof jacket, a hat, and a snack. There is little shade and no reliable services along the route, so travel prepared. The walk is not technical, but it requires reasonable fitness, and the steps down to Positano can be hard on the knees.
If you have never done a coastal hike, this is an excellent first choice because the gradients are mostly gentle and the reward is out of proportion to the effort. If the weather is poor, swap to a day when the forecast is clearer or choose a lower-level alternative such as a walk around Sorrento's headland.
Walkers who prefer to avoid the stairs can end at Nocelle and take transport onward. A late-morning finish in Positano with a long lunch makes a good way to close the day, followed by a ferry or coach back to Sorrento, depending on the season and the sea.
Preparation makes the day easier. Eat a proper breakfast, because there are few places to buy food on the trail, and carry cash for a coffee or a drink in Nocelle. Walking poles are optional but helpful on the descent, and a small first-aid kit, sun protection and a charged phone are sensible. Start early to enjoy the quiet and to leave enough daylight for the staircase and the return journey, and take your time, because the views are the whole point.
What to expect
The experience
A guided one-way walk along a high coastal trail from Bomerano to Nocelle, with transport at the start and an optional staircase down to Positano.
Best time
Clear, dry days in spring and autumn. Winter can be cold, wet and cloudy, and the stones are slippery after rain.
How long
Three to four hours of walking, with a half-day or longer including transport.
Tips
Wear grippy walking shoes, carry water and a waterproof layer, and check the forecast before committing.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers who want the classic Amalfi coastal views on foot.
- Families
- Suitable for fit older children, but the narrow ledges and the long staircase make it unsuitable for toddlers.
- Couples
- A memorable shared walk with lunch in Positano afterwards.
- Pair with
- Positano for lunch, or a boat circuit of the Li Galli islands.
- Time needed
- Half a day to most of a day.
Good questions
How long is the Path of the Gods?+
The classic route from Bomerano to Nocelle is roughly eight kilometres and takes about three to four hours at an easy pace.
Is it difficult?+
It is not technical, but it needs reasonable fitness and good shoes. The trail is uneven and narrow in places, and the stairs down to Positano are long.
Can I do it in winter?+
Yes on clear, dry days, but cold, cloud and wet stones are common. Check the forecast and keep the date flexible.
Where does the walk end?+
Most walkers end in Nocelle and either take a bus or descend the staircase to Positano, which is over a thousand steps.
Do I need a guide?+
Not for navigation, since the trail is signed, but a guide handles transport at both ends, which is the hardest part of the day.
