During our time on the Amalfi Coast, we hiked the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) and it was one of the coolest and most rewarding experiences we’ve ever had.
Just one of the MANY gorgeous views on the Path of the Gods
We started with a 2-hour winding bus ride, driving up and down cliffs and around sharp corners. We followed a tiny almost one-lane road with mountains on onside and steep cliffs on the other. The bus driver would have to honk at each turn to let other drivers know we were coming. When we got to Amalfi, we had to switch on to another bus which was 40 minutes and went up even higher into the Lattari mountains. After almost 3 hours of travel time, we questioned what we got ourselves into.
We arrived in the quiet mountain village of Bomerano, the streets were completely empty but we could hear music and singing from a nearby church. We walked for about 20 minutes to start the hike. Almost immediately we knew the trip was worth it. The winding road followed along a steep cliff, with some of the most beautiful views I’ve ever seen. We passed through small farms and villages. Eventually ending our hike after 8km in the village of Nocelle, just outside of Positano. The hike took us about 2 hours but it was challenging. The roads were almost entirely loose rocks and tiny trails and we were constantly going up and down steep hills.
As crazy as the journey was, we loved every second of it. While this trek isn’t the most typical activity for tourists on the Amalfi Coast, I highly recommend you give this adventure a try. To help you tackle this incredible expedition, here is everything you need to know before hiking the Path of Gods.
We saw all kinds of farm life on the hike.
How to Get There
We hopped on the bus from Sorrento to Amalfi, as mentioned before this drive took about 2 hours and was DEADILY lol. These buses are so wack I couldn’t believe it, haha, if you would rather not experience this, you could try booking a private car. However, this could be very expensive. From Amalfi, you need to switch to a bus to Pianillo to get to the mountain village of Bomerano. This bus took about an hour as well.
Hike Length
The Path of the Gods is approximately 8 kilometres in length. The hike typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the breathtaking views and explore the surroundings. It's important to factor in additional time for breaks, photos, and enjoying the scenery along the way. The trail offers spectacular vistas of the Amalfi Coast, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the picturesque villages below, making it a truly rewarding hiking experience.
The windy trails of the Path of the Gods
Hike Level
The Path of the Gods is considered to be a moderate hiking trail in terms of difficulty. While it doesn't require advanced mountaineering skills, it does involve some steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, and narrow paths. Hikers should have a reasonable level of fitness and be prepared for changes in elevation and potentially challenging conditions. It's advisable to wear appropriate hiking footwear, bring sufficient water, and be cautious, especially if you're not experienced in hiking or if you're not accustomed to uneven trails. As with any outdoor activity, it's a good idea to check the weather conditions and trail status before embarking on the hike.
All smiles even though we were low key dying haha
How to Get Back
Many travel blogs will tell you that the hike ends in Positano. This is NOT TRUE. It ends in the village of Nocelle, which is a pretty decent hike to Positano lol. We got a bus here back to Positano which we explored for a bit, then grabbed another bus home to Sorrento.
In wrapping up our expedition along the Path of the Gods, we've uncovered a hidden gem that transcends the ordinary. This moderately challenging hike, marked by its breathtaking vistas and moments of quiet introspection, invites us to step beyond the well-trodden tourist trails and embrace the raw beauty of the Amalfi Coast. As we navigated its narrow paths and scaled its heights, doubts gave way to wonder, and fatigue transformed into a sense of accomplishment. The Path of the Gods is more than a physical journey – it's an opportunity to connect with nature, challenge ourselves, and create lasting memories amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of this coastal haven. So, if you're seeking an adventure that promises both invigoration and inspiration, look no further than this unforgettable path that beckons us to explore, reflect, and discover the extraordinary.
One of the greatest experiences of my life <3