The Path of the Gods — Sentiero degli Dei in Italian — is a cliff-edge trail that runs along the ridge above the Amalfi Coast between the villages of Bomerano and Nocelle. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful hikes in Europe, and once you stand on the trail with the Mediterranean shimmering 500 metres below and the terraced hillsides stretching in every direction, you will understand why. This Path of the Gods hiking guide covers everything you need to plan your walk.
Trail Overview
The main trail runs from Bomerano (a hamlet in the commune of Agerola, at approximately 650 metres elevation) to Nocelle (a small village above Positano, at around 430 metres). The distance is roughly 7.8 kilometres, and most hikers complete it in 3 to 4 hours at a moderate pace. The trail is mostly downhill or flat, with a few short uphill sections.
From Nocelle, you descend to Positano via a staircase of approximately 1,700 steps — add another 30 to 45 minutes for this final section. Alternatively, take the local bus from Nocelle down to Positano (1.30 euros, runs roughly every hour).
Difficulty and Fitness Level
The Path of the Gods is classified as moderate. The path is well-maintained but narrow in places, with some exposed sections along cliff edges — not ideal for anyone with a serious fear of heights. The terrain is a mix of dirt paths, rocky sections, and stone steps. There are no technical climbing sections, ropes, or scrambles.
You do not need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking on uneven ground for 3 to 4 hours. The descent from Nocelle to Positano is harder on the knees than the trail itself — trekking poles help. Children aged 8 and up can manage the trail with supervision, though the exposed sections require caution.
How to Get to the Trailhead
The standard route starts in Bomerano and ends in Nocelle/Positano (not the reverse — this direction is mostly downhill and gives you the best views ahead of you).
By public transport from Sorrento: Take the SITA bus from Sorrento to Amalfi (1 hour 15 minutes), then a local bus from Amalfi to Bomerano (30 minutes). Buses run roughly hourly but schedules are unreliable in shoulder season — check current timetables locally.
By private transfer: BlueKeys offers private transfers from Sorrento to Bomerano, dropping you directly at the trailhead. The drive takes about 50 minutes. This is the most comfortable and reliable option, especially for early-morning starts. A transfer for up to 4 people costs from 70 to 100 euros one way.
Guided hiking tour: BlueKeys runs a guided Path of the Gods trekking experience that includes transport from your accommodation, an experienced local guide, and return transfer from Positano. The guide shares insights about the geology, flora, and history of the trail that you would miss hiking independently.
What to Bring
- Sturdy walking shoes: Trainers with good grip at minimum; hiking shoes are better. The trail is rocky and dusty.
- Water: At least 1.5 litres per person. There are no water refill points on the trail.
- Sunscreen and hat: The trail is largely exposed with no shade.
- Snacks: Energy bars, fruit, or a picnic. There is a cafe in Nocelle at the end.
- Light jacket: The ridge can be windy, even on warm days.
- Trekking poles: Optional but useful for the descent to Positano.
- Camera: Obviously. The views from this Path of the Gods hiking trail are extraordinary.
Best Time to Hike
April, May, September, and October are the best months. Temperatures are pleasant (18 to 25 degrees Celsius), the trail is less crowded, and the light is beautiful. June is also good but warmer. Avoid July and August — the heat on the exposed trail can be brutal (35+ degrees), and the path is packed with hikers.
Time of day: Start early. Departing Bomerano by 8:00 or 9:00 means cooler temperatures and fewer people on the trail. You will reach Positano by lunchtime, leaving the afternoon free for the beach.
What You Will See Along the Way
The trail passes through Mediterranean scrubland — fragrant rosemary, thyme, and wild fennel — with constant views of the coast below. Key landmarks along the route include:
- The first viewpoint, 20 minutes from Bomerano, overlooking Praiano and the Li Galli islands
- A natural rock arch about halfway along the trail
- The ruined buildings of an abandoned settlement at Colle Serra
- The final descent into Nocelle, with Positano directly below and Capri on the horizon
On a clear day, you can see from the island of Capri all the way to the Cilento coast — a panorama spanning roughly 100 kilometres.
After the Hike
After descending to Positano, reward yourself with a swim at Fornillo Beach and a long lunch at Lo Guarracino. Then take the ferry or SITA bus back to Sorrento — or, better yet, arrange a boat tour from Positano and see the coast from the water before heading home. If you booked the BlueKeys guided Path of the Gods hiking experience, your return transfer will be waiting.
Hike the Path of the Gods
Book a guided trekking experience with BlueKeys — includes trailhead transfer, expert guide, and return transport from Positano. Or arrange a private transfer to Bomerano and hike independently.
