Positano · Praiano
Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)
- Distance
- 5.2 km
- Elevation Gain
- 150 m
- Duration
- 3.5-4.5 hours
The Path of the Gods is the single most celebrated hike on the Amalfi Coast, and it earns every superlative. Starting from the quiet highland village of Bomerano at 650 meters, the trail traces a narrow shelf carved into the limestone cliffs of the Lattari Mountains. For a little over five kilometers you walk suspended between sky and sea, with nothing but air between you and the Tyrrhenian far below. The path is well-marked and mostly flat or gently descending, making it accessible to anyone with basic fitness. On clear mornings the silhouettes of Capri, Li Galli, and the Faraglioni of Capri float on the horizon. You pass through pockets of Mediterranean maquis, abandoned shepherd shelters, and a few sections where the trail narrows to a single footwidth with sheer drops. The final descent into Nocelle is steep but short, ending at a hamlet perched 400 meters above Positano. From there, a bus or 1,700 steps carry you down to the beach. Walk east to west, from Bomerano towards Nocelle, so the coast is always in front of you.
What you see
- Unobstructed 180-degree panorama over the Tyrrhenian Sea and Capri
- Walking on a narrow cliff shelf hundreds of meters above the water
- The atmospheric Grotta del Biscotto rock archway midway through
- Arrival at Nocelle with Positano spilling down the cliff below
- Sunset light painting the limestone gold in the late afternoon
Where to take pictures
- Colle Serra viewpoint
- First major overlook 30 minutes in, with Praiano and Li Galli islands framed perfectly
- Grotta del Biscotto
- Natural rock arch forming a window over the sea, dramatic for silhouette shots
- Final ridge above Nocelle
- The classic shot: Positano cascading below you with the sea stretching to infinity
Seasonal Notes
Best March-June and September-November. July-August is scorching with no shade and extreme crowding. Winter is possible on dry days but the trail can be slippery. Avoid after heavy rain.
Getting There
Start: SITA bus from Amalfi to Agerola-Bomerano (40 min, runs every 1-2 hours). End: local bus from Nocelle to Positano center (10 min), or walk down the 1,700 steps.
The tip
Start by 7:30 AM in summer to beat the tour groups that arrive at 9-10 AM. Bring 2 liters of water minimum — there is zero shade and no refill points.