Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei)

The 4.8-mile (7.7-kilometer) Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) connects two tiny villages in the hills above the Amalfi Coast: Agerola (above Praiano) and Nocelle (above Positano). The trail winds along the coastline, with about a 1,640-foot (500-meter) drop to the sea. To hike, you can start at either end, but it's advised to leave from Agerola and take the downhill route to Nocelle, from where you can descend some 1,500 steps into Positano.

If you don't want to take local buses to and from the trail and find the trailhead on your own, opt for a guided private or small-group hikes of the Path of the Gods. These usually include round-trip transportation from the nearby towns along the coastline or Sorrento. Some guided hikes also include a stop for lunch at a countryside restaurant or a rock climbing experience on the coastal cliffs.

• The biggest draw of the Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei) is its endless views, so bring a camera.

• Wear a hat, sunblock, comfortable clothing, and sturdy footwear to take on this moderately challenging trail.

• There are restaurants near the trail's end in Nocelle that are popular for lunch; otherwise pack a picnic to enjoy along the trail.

• In some areas, the trail runs next to the cliff's edge, which some may find disconcerting.

• The trail is steep, rocky, and uneven and not accessible to wheelchairs or those with limited mobility and vertigo.

The trail runs between the towns of Agerola and Nocelle, and there are public buses to each of these towns, though they do not run frequently. The best option is joining a guided hike that includes round-trip transportation, or taking a bus or private car transfer to Agerola to begin your hike and a bus from Positano (set beneath Nocelle) afterwards.

For lower temperatures, clearer views, and fewer crowds, hike in spring and fall. In summer, the searing heat can cause haze-covered views, and the crowds can clog the trail from late morning to early afternoon.

The UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast has long been one of Italy’s most iconic stretches of coastline, famous for its cliffside highway, seaside villages, and chic atmosphere. The most famous towns along the coast are Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, and many visitors use the coast as a jumping-off spot to visit the island of Capri, Sorrento, and even Naples.

The Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei) hiking trail on the Amalfi Coast is approximately 5–6 miles (8–10 kilometers) of switchbacks and steep climbs down from Pianillo to Positano. It’s moderately difficult, steep in many places—especially on one of the last legs of staircases—and takes between 4–7 hours to complete.

Aside from the divine views of the Amalfi Coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea, the highlights of the Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei) range from terraced wineries and monasteries to small cantina-like shops selling drinks and bites to eat. The trail also passes through the tiny village of Nocelle before reaching Positano.

No, it isn’t necessary to hire a guide to hike the Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei). However, the trail is moderately difficult with some inconsistent signage and meandering pathways. Inexperienced hikers without a map—or those who want to skip the hassle of finding the trailhead— might want to hire a guide.

The Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei) trailhead is in Pianillo. It’s a 1-hour drive from Naples and a 2-hour ride on the 5080 bus from Piazza Garibaldi. You can also join guided tours with transport from Naples or Sorrento, or hike up the trail from Positano, which is much more challenging.

No, there aren’t any entrance fees or permits required to hike the Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei). The Pianillo to Positano hiking trail is free to the public. However, it’s a good idea to bring cash to pay for lemonade or a bite to eat along the way.

Dress appropriately for the weather, which is warm and dry for most of the year in southern Italy: bring sunscreen, a hat, sturdy shoes, and plenty of water. Bring a bathing suit and a lightweight towel if you want to hit the beach once reaching Positano.