Quick answer — Path of the Gods at a glance
- Route: Bomerano → Nocelle → Positano · 7.8 km · mostly downhill
- Time: 3–4h hiking + 30–45 min descent to Positano (or bus €1.30)
- Difficulty: Moderate · some cliff-edge sections · no technical climbing
- Cost: Free · SITA bus to Bomerano ~€2.60 · private transfer from €70
- Best months: April–June and September–October (less heat, fewer crowds)
- GPS trailhead: 40.6384°N, 14.5475°E — Piazza Paolo Capasso, Bomerano
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Distance | 7.8 km (Bomerano → Nocelle) + ~2 km descent to Positano |
| Total time | 3.5–5h including descent |
| Elevation change | Start 650m → Nocelle 430m → Positano 0m |
| Trail cost | Free to hike |
| Getting to trailhead | SITA bus Amalfi→Bomerano €1.30 or private transfer from €70 |
| Guided tour | BlueKeys guided hike with transport — check /tours |
| CAI trail number | CAI #327 (Sentiero degli Dei Alto) / #327b (Basso) |
| Official trail info | Club Alpino Italiano (CAI) — trail registry |
The Path of the Gods — Sentiero degli Dei in Italian — is a cliff-edge trail along the ridge above the Amalfi Coast between Bomerano and Nocelle. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful hikes in Europe. The trail takes its name from Greek mythology: the ancient Greeks believed these heights were the pathway used by the gods to reach the land of the Sirens — the Li Galli islands offshore from Positano. Used by shepherds for centuries, the trail is now managed by the Comune di Agerola and catalogued by the Club Alpino Italiano (CAI) as trail #327.
Trail Overview
The main trail runs from Bomerano (650m elevation) to Nocelle (430m), covering roughly 7.8 kilometres 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 approximately 1,700 steps (30–45 minutes) or take the local bus (€1.30, roughly every hour).
The trail is a point-to-point route — you need transport to the start and a way home from the finish. Most hikers bus or transfer to Bomerano, hike west to Nocelle, then descend to Positano. From there, catch a SITA bus back to Amalfi or Sorrento (€2.60), a ferry to Amalfi (€10) or Capri (from €22), or arrange a private transfer. The path is clearly marked with red and white CAI blazes every 100 to 200 metres. There is exactly one route along the main ridge, so getting lost is nearly impossible in good weather.
The trail surface varies: well-graded dirt paths in the first and last sections, rockier limestone terrain through the middle, a few short stretches of ancient stone steps, and one brief section of loose scree about 4 kilometres in. None of it is technical, but ankle-supporting footwear makes a real difference. Your cumulative ascent is approximately 150 metres and cumulative descent around 370 metres — your knees will know about it by Nocelle.
Upper Path vs Lower Path
There are two variants: the Upper Path (Sentiero degli Dei Alto, CAI #327) and the Lower Path (Sentiero degli Dei Basso, CAI #327b). They diverge about 1.5 km from Bomerano near Praia and rejoin roughly 2 km before Nocelle. The vast majority of hikers take the Upper Path. Our recommendation: Take the Upper Path unless you are an experienced hiker seeking a more challenging, solitary experience. The Lower Path has narrower ledges, less clear markings, and sections that get overgrown by late summer. If you have any fear of heights, do not take the Lower Path — the exposure is significantly more intense. Some stretches may close after heavy rain or landslides.
| Upper Path (Alto) #327 | Lower Path (Basso) #327b | |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | 7.8 km | ~8.5 km |
| Time | 3–4 hours | 3.5–4.5 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate-Difficult |
| Highest point | ~630m | ~580m |
| Cliff exposure | Moderate — some open edges | High — more vertiginous sections |
| Views | Constant panoramic sea views | Closer to the cliff, more dramatic |
| Crowds | Busy, especially Jul–Aug | Very few hikers |
| Trail condition | Well-maintained, clear markings | Less maintained, some overgrown sections |
| Best for | First-timers, families, guided groups | Experienced hikers, solitude seekers |
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 cliff-edge sections — not ideal for anyone with a serious fear of heights. 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.
If you can walk 10 kilometres on flat ground without difficulty and have hiked any moderate trail before, you can handle this. The most challenging physical aspect is uneven footing on rocky stretches in the middle section — rolled ankles are the most common injury. The exposed cliff-edge sections are psychologically challenging rather than physically difficult. 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 with supervision. People in their 60s and 70s complete this trail regularly.
How to Get to Bomerano Trailhead
The trailhead is at Piazza Paolo Capasso in Bomerano. GPS: 40.6384°N, 14.5475°E. Look for the brown sign reading "Sentiero degli Dei."
SITA bus from Amalfi to Bomerano
The cheapest option. SITA Sud bus from Amalfi (Piazza Flavio Gioia) towards Agerola, approximately 35–40 minutes, €1.30. Buy tickets at the tabacchi before boarding.
2026 approximate bus times from Amalfi to Bomerano (SITA Sud):
- 06:50 — earliest, ideal for beating crowds
- 07:50
- 09:10 — most popular with hikers
- 10:20
- 12:00
- 13:30
- 15:00
- 17:10 — last useful departure for hiking
Schedules change in shoulder season. Always confirm at the Amalfi bus station or SITA Sud website. Expect delays of 5–15 minutes in summer.
SITA bus from Sorrento
No direct bus. Take SITA from Sorrento to Amalfi (~1h 15min, €2.60), then change to the Amalfi-Agerola bus (€1.30). Total: €3.90, approximately 2 hours.
Private transfer
BlueKeys offers private transfers to Bomerano from any Amalfi Coast location. Door-to-trailhead with no bus connections. Prices: Sorrento €70–100 (4 pax), Amalfi €40–60, Positano €60–80.
Taxi
From Amalfi approximately €35–50, from Sorrento €80–120. Agree on price before getting in. No Uber on the Amalfi Coast.
Driving and parking
Free car park at Piazza Paolo Capasso (~30 spaces, fills by 09:30 in peak season) and overflow lot 200m east (~20 spaces). The problem: the hike is one-way. You end in Positano, not Bomerano, and must bus or taxi back to retrieve your car — adding 1.5–2 hours. Not recommended unless a non-hiking member can drive the car to Positano.
Step-by-Step Route Description
The 7.8 km trail from Bomerano to Nocelle divides into five segments.
Segment 1: Bomerano to First Viewpoint (0–1.5 km, 20–30 min)
Easy warm-up through terraced gardens and lemon groves on a well-graded dirt path. After 15 minutes the landscape opens up and the first panoramic sea views appear. At 1.5 km, a wide rocky ledge offers an unobstructed panorama over Praiano and the Li Galli islands — best light before 10:00.
Segment 2: First Viewpoint to Colle Serra (1.5–3.5 km, 40–60 min)
The trail earns its reputation here: path narrows to 1–2 metres with a sheer drop on the left. Rockier footing through Mediterranean scrubland — rosemary, thyme, wild fennel. At 2.5 km, a rock overhang provides the only shade on the trail. At 3 km, Colle Serra — ruins of an abandoned pastoral settlement — marks where the Lower Path diverges. Stay right for the Upper Path. Loose scree for about 300 metres here.
Segment 3: Colle Serra to the Natural Arch (3.5–5 km, 30–45 min)
The most sustained uphill of the hike — a gentle 50-metre gain over 500 metres, rewarded with views of the entire Gulf of Salerno. At 4.5 km, the famous natural rock arch frames the sea below. This is the most photographed spot on the trail. Early morning hikers get the arch to themselves; expect queues in July and August.
Segment 4: Natural Arch to Grotta Biscotto (5–6.5 km, 30–40 min)
The most relaxed section — easy walking on a level dirt path. Pass several small caves, including Grotta Biscotto (5 metres deep, good for a shaded break). The classic "Path of the Gods with Positano below" view emerges around 6 km as the trail curves around a headland. Best light 10:00–12:00.
Segment 5: Grotta Biscotto to Nocelle (6.5–7.8 km, 20–30 min)
Steady descent through olive and lemon groves into Nocelle via stone steps and paved lanes. The trail ends at the piazza by the church of Santa Croce. Bar Santa Croce is the only refreshment point since Bomerano — cold lemon granita €3.50, Peroni €4. From here: descend 1,700 steps to Positano (30–45 min) or take the bus (€1.30, hourly).
What to Bring — Complete Packing List
- Sturdy walking shoes: Hiking shoes or trainers with good grip. Avoid sandals or smooth-soled shoes — the rocky middle section punishes them. Ankle support is valuable.
- Water: At least 1.5L per person, 2L in summer. No refill points exist between Bomerano and Nocelle.
- Sunscreen and hat: The trail is largely exposed. SPF 50, reapply at the halfway mark. Wide-brimmed hat recommended.
- Snacks: Energy bars, fruit, nuts, or a panino from Bomerano (€3.50–5). No shops on the trail.
- Light jacket or windbreaker: The ridge can be windy. Temperatures drop 3–5 degrees compared to the coast.
- Trekking poles: Optional but useful for the 1,700-step descent. Collapsible poles are ideal.
- Camera + portable charger: Wide-angle lens or phone mode essential for the panoramic scale.
- Cash: €10–20 in small bills for bus tickets (€1.30 each, often cash only) and drinks at Bar Santa Croce.
- Small first aid kit: Plasters for blisters, antiseptic wipes, painkillers. The trail is 45 minutes from the nearest road at the midpoint.
- Lightweight daypack: 15–25 litres is perfect. Do not bring a full-sized backpack.
Best Time to Hike
April, May, September, and October are the best months — pleasant temperatures (18–25°C), fewer crowds, beautiful light. June is also good but warmer. Avoid July and August: heat on the exposed trail can exceed 35°C, and the path is packed with hikers.
Time of day: Start early. Departing Bomerano by 08:00 or 09:00 means cooler temperatures and fewer people. The 06:50 bus from Amalfi puts you on the trail by 07:30 with virtually no other hikers — the experience is transformative compared to a midday start in high season when you may be walking in a queue of 50 people. Late afternoon starts (after 15:00) are possible from May to September when daylight extends to 20:00, but carry a headlamp and be confident of reaching Nocelle before sunset. We do not recommend a late start for first-time hikers.
Month by Month Conditions
| Month | Weather | Trail condition | Crowds | Wildflowers | Daylight (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April | 15–20°C, occasional rain showers | Good, may be muddy after rain | Low to moderate | Peak bloom — orchids, broom, poppies | 06:30–19:45 |
| May | 18–24°C, mostly sunny | Excellent, dry | Moderate | Late bloom — wild fennel, thyme in flower | 06:00–20:15 |
| June | 22–28°C, hot midday | Excellent, dry and dusty | Moderate to busy | Fading, broom still yellow | 05:35–20:35 |
| July | 28–35°C, intense sun | Dry, very dusty | Very busy | Dry scrubland, few flowers | 05:45–20:30 |
| August | 28–36°C, extreme heat possible | Dry, very dusty, fire risk | Peak crowds | Minimal vegetation | 06:10–20:05 |
| September | 22–28°C, chance of thunderstorms | Good, first rains refresh trail | Moderate, decreasing | Autumn crocus, sea squill blooming | 06:40–19:20 |
| October | 17–23°C, rain more likely | Good, can be slippery after rain | Low to moderate | Cyclamen, autumn colour starting | 07:10–18:25 |
| November | 12–17°C, rainy spells common | Muddy sections, check for closures | Low | Minimal | 07:00–16:50 |
Our pick: The last two weeks of April and the first two weeks of May. The wildflowers are at their peak, the temperatures are ideal, the summer crowds have not arrived, and the light on the coast is golden without the summer haze. Late September is the second-best window — warm enough for a post-hike swim, with shorter queues and cheaper accommodation.
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 include the first viewpoint overlooking Praiano and the Li Galli islands (20 minutes from Bomerano), the ruined settlement at Colle Serra, the natural rock arch halfway along the trail (the most photographed spot on the entire route), and Grotta Biscotto with its distinctive eroded walls. On a clear day, the panorama spans from Capri to the Cilento coast — roughly 100 kilometres.
The cliffs beneath you are Mesozoic limestone laid down over 100 million years ago when this area was a shallow tropical sea. The dramatic karst formations — caves, arches, sinkholes — result from millennia of water erosion. The terraces cut into the hillsides below the trail were built by hand over centuries for growing lemons, olives, and grapes, some predating the Middle Ages.
Birdwatchers should keep an eye on the sky. Peregrine falcons nest in the cliffs along this stretch of coast, kestrels hover over the scrubland, and in spring and autumn migratory raptors pass through the gap between the Lattari mountains and the sea. The scrubland is also home to Sardinian warblers, blue rock thrushes, and — from April to August — the bright yellow and black of European bee-eaters.
What to Do After the Hike
After descending to Positano, you have three excellent options for making the most of your day.
Beach recovery at Fornillo
Fornillo Beach is quieter and more affordable than Spiaggia Grande. A sunbed and umbrella costs €15–20 per person (vs €25–35 at Spiaggia Grande). After 5 hours on a dusty trail, jumping into the Tyrrhenian Sea is indescribable. Bring a swimsuit in your daypack. Changing rooms and showers are included with sunbed rental at most lidos.
Lunch at La Tagliata
A family-run restaurant in the hills above Positano, accessible by free shuttle from the centre. A multi-course feast of handmade pasta, grilled meats, local wine, and desserts costs approximately €35–45 per person including house wine. Booking is essential from June to September. Time your hike to arrive in Positano by 12:30–13:00 for the 13:00 shuttle.
Boat tour from Positano
See the coast you just hiked from sea level. BlueKeys offers boat tours departing from Positano — shared group tours from €45 per person, private gozzo rentals (up to 6 people) from €250 for 3 hours. The contrast between the bird's-eye trail view and the sea-level perspective is remarkable.
Guided vs Self-Guided
| Guided tour | Self-guided | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | From €45–€75 per person (includes transfer + guide) | Free to hike + bus €2.60 each way = €5.20 total |
| Transport logistics | Handled — hotel pickup, drop at trailhead, return from Positano | You manage buses, connections, timetables |
| Start time | Fixed by tour operator (usually 08:00–09:00 pickup) | Your choice — go at 07:00 or 14:00 |
| Pace | Group pace — may be faster or slower than you prefer | Your own pace, stop when you want |
| Knowledge | Guide shares geology, history, flora, local stories | What you read beforehand (this guide helps) |
| Safety | Guide carries first aid, knows trail, manages emergencies | You are responsible for your own safety |
| Group size | Typically 6–15 people | Just your group |
| Flexibility | Fixed itinerary and timing | Total freedom — extend, shorten, detour |
| Best for | First-time visitors, solo travellers, those who dislike logistics | Experienced hikers, budget travellers, repeat visitors |
Our recommendation: If this is your first time on the Amalfi Coast and you want a stress-free experience, a guided tour is worth the extra cost — the transport logistics are the most frustrating part of an otherwise perfect day. BlueKeys runs a guided Path of the Gods trekking experience that includes hotel pickup, an experienced local guide, and return transfer from Positano — from €45 per person. Browse all Amalfi Coast tours including hiking, boat trips, and food experiences.
If you are an experienced hiker comfortable with Italian public transport, self-guided is perfectly viable and saves €40–70 per person. The trail is well-marked and impossible to get lost on. The only real risk is the bus logistics — print or screenshot the bus times, buy tickets in advance, and leave buffer time for delays.
A middle option: book a private transfer to Bomerano (from €70 for up to 4 people) and hike independently. Door-to-trailhead comfort without being tied to a group pace.
Alternative Easier Hikes
If the Path of the Gods does not suit your fitness level, fear of heights, or preferences, consider these alternatives:
- Valle delle Ferriere (Valley of the Mills): A shaded valley hike from Amalfi through lush vegetation to a waterfall. Approximately 5 km return, 2.5–3 hours, easy to moderate. No cliff exposure. Entry to the nature reserve: €5.
- Ravello to Minori walk: A gentle downhill through lemon groves and past Villa Romana to the seaside town of Minori. Approximately 3 km, 1–1.5 hours, easy. Reward yourself with pastiera at Sal De Riso pastry shop (€4.50).
- Punta Campanella: A coastal path to the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula with views across to Capri. Approximately 5 km return from Termini village, 2–3 hours, moderate. Some exposure but less extreme than the Path of the Gods.
Explore all walking, trekking, and adventure experiences on our Amalfi Coast tours page.
Safety and Rules
- Trail markings: Red and white CAI blazes every 100–200m. If you have not seen one for 5 minutes, stop and look back.
- No water on the trail: Zero drinking water between Bomerano and Nocelle. Carry everything you need — 2L minimum in summer.
- Mobile signal: Patchy. Good coverage in the first and last kilometre; drops to 1 bar or nothing in the middle 5 km. Download an offline map (Maps.me or AllTrails) before starting.
- Emergency: Call 112 (European emergency) or 118 (Italian medical). For mountain rescue, call 112 and ask for CNSAS.
- No camping or open fires: Prohibited by the Comune di Agerola. The scrubland is extremely fire-prone June–September.
- No drones: Prohibited in the Lattari Mountains regional park without a permit from the Ente Parco.
- Carry out all rubbish: No bins on the trail. Fines apply for littering.
- Dogs: Allowed but must be on a lead at all times. Bring water for your dog.
- Loose rocks: Especially at Colle Serra. Watch your footing and avoid kicking rocks towards hikers below.
- Heat exhaustion: The biggest risk June–September. Start early, carry enough water, wear a hat. If affected, rest in shade at the rock overhang (2.5 km) or Grotta Biscotto (5.5 km).
- Twisted ankles: The most common injury. Proper footwear reduces risk significantly.
- Slippery after rain: Limestone becomes very slick when wet. Extra caution on stepped sections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hike the Path of the Gods in the opposite direction (Nocelle to Bomerano)?
Technically yes, but we do not recommend it. The Bomerano-to-Nocelle direction is mostly downhill, puts the best views ahead of you, and ends with the descent to Positano — which makes logical sense for a day trip.
Is the trail open year-round?
The trail is officially open from April to November. From December to March, it may be closed due to weather, landslides, or maintenance. We do not recommend winter hiking for casual visitors.
Do I need to book or pay anything to hike?
No. The trail is free to access and requires no reservation, permit, or ticket. The only costs are transport to get there and back.
Is there a toilet on the trail?
No. The only restrooms are at the bar in Bomerano before you start and Bar Santa Croce in Nocelle when you finish — 3 to 4 hours without facilities.
Can I hike in sandals or regular shoes?
You can, but you should not. At minimum, wear trainers with decent tread. Proper hiking shoes are ideal.
How crowded does it get?
In July and August, 300–500+ hikers per day. In April, May, and October, 50–150. The 08:00 start versus 11:00 start makes an enormous difference regardless of month.
Hike the Path of the Gods
Book a guided trekking experience with BlueKeys — includes trailhead transfer, expert guide, and return transport from Positano. From €45 per person. Or arrange a private transfer to Bomerano (from €70 for up to 4 passengers) and hike independently. Either way, this is the hike of a lifetime.
