The Path of the Gods

the most famous hike you can do in Sorrento area

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The Path of the Gods takes us back in time, at the glory of the Greek period. Probably one of the most famous paths in Italy, this hike moves from Bomerano to Nocelle. Walking between heaven and earth, from the Path of the Gods it is possible to admire one of the most breathtaking panoramas on Earth: a stunning view of the coast which ranges from the archipelago of Li Galli at your left to the Island of Capri in front of you. The Path of the Gods, despite the name, is also an extraordinary example of the work of human beings, who managed throughout the centuries to colonize even the most impracticable locations of the region. Walking in this spectacular scenery, there will be the occasion to meet local shepherds and farmers eventually. They still work and live in this little corner of heaven facing every day the difficulties of their hard job with passion and devotion, a trademark of the people here in Southern Italy. Through old vineyards, terraces, farmhouses and monasteries, suspended at 650 meters above the sea level, you will have the feeling to walk in a painting with an ever-changing landscape.

We have 2 different hike for the path of the gods, starting from Nocelle or Bomerano, our guides always choose the best route based on traffic, weather and season.

FROM NOCELLE:

Distance : 7.5km
Details: Nocelle ‐ Nocelle
Difficulty: EE (hard)
Path type: mule tracks, paths on stone and dirt paths
Meeting Point: Tasso Square (Sorrento)
(we start from Nocelle and back to Nocelle, so, more walking, less car! 🙂 )

FROM BOMERANO:

Distance : 5.2km
Details: Bomerano ‐ Bomerano
Difficulty: E (medium)
Path type: mule tracks, paths on stone and dirt paths
Meeting Point: Tasso Square (Sorrento)
(we start from Bomerano and back to Bomerano, this option is longer by car but less walking)

Among the “high” routes of the Amalfi coast, this hike moves from Nocelle to “Colle Serra” (and back) and is by far the most famous hike you can do. The reason for this fame (which is recognized all over the world) is the constant ups and downs, the fantastic sheer vertical drops and lands cultivated in terraces. You arrive at the final destination and the highlight of this hike, Punta Campanella, which is united, under the sea, to the stunning island of Capri. From the spectacular belvedere looking to the west we see siren archipelagos and swirling shapes. There is much to explain here regarding the colours of the Mediterranean lands, known as our “Path of the Gods”.

Botany: mediterranean scrub, heather, euphorbia, true myrtle, orchids in spring,..
Fauna: birds of prey (kestrel, peregrine falcon, buzzard, raven, sea gull,..) migratory and sedentary birds and insects, butterflies , reptiles (lizards, harmless snakes).
Natural landscape interests: view on the whole peninsola, view on Capri and Amalfi coast

download MAP path loop from NOCELLE

download MAP path loop from BOMERANO

“Unknown to most tourists, wonderful networks of footpaths criss-cross the Peninsula and Capri, connecting little villages by easy paths and venturing on rougher ways up into the mountains. Visitors can plan simple walks of varying lengths often starting right outside their villa, allowing them to enjoy fantastic views whilst getting a feel for authentic Italy. The friendly local people you come across on foot could be pruning their vines, picking lemons or carrying supplies by mule to a remote house, a million miles from the tourist guide or souvenir vendor you meet in town. Experienced hikers can stretch their legs on stony trails high up in the mountains, guided by the red/white marks painted by the local Alpine Club (CAI), followed by a cool beer in a village bar at the end of the day.” “Along the Amalfi coast the terrain is very steep, the bonus being spectacular views around every corner, but with the effect that paths are often built as stone steps. It helps to take your time to avoid getting out of breath or maybe take a bus to a higher starting point and walk mainly downhill. Mind you, going down a lot of steps can be hard on the knees too. If you are at all worried by this warning, just start with modest plans to get a feel for how the paths play out for you; judging by my fan mail few people are much bothered. At the Sorrento end of the peninsula you’ll meet fewer steps as the terrain is mostly more forgiving there.”

Julian Tippett