Amalfi City Guide
Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) Hiking Guide
The path of the gods (Sentiero degli Dei) is the most celebrated clifftop hike on the Amalfi Coast, tracing an ancient mule trail 500 meters above the Tyrrhenian Sea from the mountain village of Bomerano (Agerola) to Nocelle above Positano. Covering 7.8 kilometers of dramatic limestone ledges, terraced vineyards, and sweeping coastal vistas toward the Isle of Capri, this public trail is completely free to enter and requires no permits. This guide covers trailhead bus connections from Amalfi, trail elevation profiles, drinking water springs, and onward routes to Positano; broader coastal explorations are detailed in the Amalfi vacation portal.
Quick answer Essential trail route, difficulty rating, and transit instructions in brief
The Path of the Gods runs 7.8 km between Bomerano and Nocelle. It is free, takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours to hike, and features moderate rocky footing with steep drops. Always hike east to west (Bomerano to Nocelle) for a gentle downhill slope and unobstructed views toward Capri.
Key takeaways
- Take the SITA bus from Amalfi to Bomerano (Agerola) to begin at 630 meters elevation, avoiding a punishing 1,700-step uphill climb.
- Sturdy trail shoes with grippy rubber soles are mandatory; flip-flops and smooth fashion sneakers are unsafe on exposed limestone rocks.
- Book a guided Path of the Gods trek if you prefer round-trip transport coordination, botanical insights, and an experienced alpine leader.
Key facts
Opening hours
| Year-round | 06:00–20:00 |
|---|
Closed Open daily year-round (avoid during heavy rain, high winds, or severe fog)
Admission
- Adult
- Free ($0)
- Reduced
- Free ($0)
- Free
- Open to all hikers at no charge
Planning it
- Time needed
- 3.5–4.5 hours (7.8 km one way)
- Address
- Piazza Paolo Capasso, 80051 Bomerano (Agerola) NA, Italy
Trail access comparison between self-guided hiking on public CAI paths and organized guided excursions departing from Amalfi, verified on 10 September 2026.
| Hiking Option | Cost | Inclusions | Logistics & Booking | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Guided Trail Access (CAI 327) | Free ($0) | Full trail access from Bomerano to Nocelle | Public access; purchase SITA bus tickets in Amalfi | Official site |
| Guided Path of the Gods Trek | $55.00 (€47.00) | Certified mountain guide, scenic photo stops, hiking poles, small group | Reserve online with instant confirmation and 24h cancellation | Check Availability |
from $55.00
Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) Guided Cliffside Trek
4.5-hour guided hike along the world-famous cliff path from Bomerano to Nocelle with certified alpine guide, walking poles, and shepherd snack stop.
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The Route Breakdown: Bomerano to Colle Serra and Nocelle
The classic hike starts at Piazza Paolo Capasso in Bomerano, a hamlet of Agerola perched at 630 meters above sea level. From the piazza, follow the red-and-white CAI trail markers south along a paved lane past terraced gardens until you reach the wooden gate of the trailhead.
After approximately 20 minutes of gentle walking along limestone cliffs, you reach Colle Serra (580 m), where the trail splits into high and low routes. The lower path (Sentiero Basso) is the traditional and most scenic route, clinging directly to the sheer coastal cliffs with jaw-dropping views of Praiano below and the Faraglioni of Capri on the horizon. The higher path climbs toward Mount Tre Calli and is steeper and more rugged. Rejoining near the ruined stone shepherd dwellings at Cannati, the trail winds through wild rosemary, strawberry trees, and holm oaks before arriving at the sleepy clifftop hamlet of Nocelle (420 m).
Getting from Nocelle Down to Positano
Upon arriving in Nocelle, hikers have two options to reach sea level in Positano:
1. The 1,700 Steps: A stone staircase descends sharply from Nocelle down to the coastal hamlet of Arienzo. While shaded by lemon orchards, this steep descent puts significant strain on knees and quads. From Arienzo, you can walk 15 minutes along the coastal road or descend another 300 steps to Arienzo beach.
2. The Local Mobility Amalfi Coast Bus: A small orange shuttle bus departs approximately every hour from the Nocelle parking turnaround, carrying passengers down into central Positano (Piazza dei Mulini) in about 25 minutes. Tickets cost $1.60 (€1.40) from local tobacconists or the driver.
Trailhead Transit from Amalfi: SITA Bus Logistics
To reach the Bomerano trailhead from Amalfi, catch the SITA bus toward Agerola (San Lazzaro or Bomerano) from the main Amalfi bus terminal at Flavio Gioia. The bus ride takes roughly 45 to 55 minutes, winding up through the hairpin curves of Conca dei Marini and Furore.
Purchase your SITA ticket ($2.80 / €2.40) in Amalfi before boarding at the tobacco shop (Tabacchi) or ticket kiosk; tickets cannot be bought on board. Ask the driver for the "Bomerano - Sentiero degli Dei" stop. After completing the hike and spending time in Positano, return to Amalfi by the fast 20-minute Travelmar passenger ferry from Positano pier for a relaxing coastal ride back.
Trailheads & Key Landmarks Along the Route
Trail route map showing the start in Bomerano, key junction at Colle Serra, Nocelle finish, and transit connections to Amalfi.
Connected Sights & Next Destinations
Explore other natural landscapes, villages, and guided excursions across the Amalfi Coast.
Positano Day Trip
Where the trail concludes: cliffside pastel villas, luxury beach clubs, and ferry connections back to Amalfi.
Descent from Nocelle trail endValle delle Ferriere
Amalfi lush subtropical nature reserve featuring waterfalls, giant ferns, and medieval iron foundry ruins.
Trail begins in upper AmalfiAmalfi Tours & Excursions
Full catalogue of coastal boat cruises, guided mountain hikes, and authentic food excursions.
Departs from AmalfiFrequently Asked Questions about Path of the Gods
Is Path of the Gods suitable for beginners?
Yes, provided you have moderate physical fitness and no severe vertigo. The path is largely downhill from Bomerano to Nocelle, but rocky terrain requires careful foot placement and balance.
Do I need a guide to hike Path of the Gods?
No, the trail is well-marked with red-and-white CAI markers and signposts. However, joining a guided group offers round-trip transport logistics, hiking poles, and local botanical insights.
What footwear should I wear on Path of the Gods?
Hiking boots or trail running shoes with rugged rubber lug soles are essential. Smooth sneakers, sandals, and casual slip-ons are dangerous on loose gravel and smooth limestone slabs.
Are there water fountains along the trail?
There are drinking water fountains in the main square of Bomerano and at the trail finish in Nocelle. Carry at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water per person, as there is no water along the 7.8 km trail.
How do I return to Amalfi after finishing the hike?
Take the local shuttle bus or walk down 1,700 steps from Nocelle to Positano. From Positano pier, board a 20-minute Travelmar ferry directly back to Amalfi marina.
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