The Sentiero degli Dei, translated as the Path of the Gods, connects the hilltop area of Agerola with Nocelle, a small settlement above Positano on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. This famous walking route ranks among the most memorable outdoor experiences in the country, combining coastal scenery, ancient legends, and accessible hiking.

## A trail shaped by legend and landscape

According to local mythology, Greek gods once crossed this path to save Ulysses from the sirens living near the Li Galli islets. Today, hikers move through scented Mediterranean vegetation, terraced vineyards, and open viewpoints that stretch across the sea toward Capri and the Faraglioni rocks. The experience blends nature, history, and dramatic scenery in a single walk.

## Choosing the right route

Two main versions of the trail exist. The lower route, the most popular option, runs from Bomerano in Agerola to Nocelle and offers gentler terrain with wide coastal views. The upper route climbs higher toward Santa Maria del Castello and demands more effort, with steeper sections and greater elevation gain.

Starting in Agerola and finishing in Nocelle is widely recommended. This direction allows a gradual descent rather than a demanding climb, while keeping the coastline and Capri in full view for most of the walk. Many hikers describe the sensation of moving between sea and sky, making this route a highlight of any trip to southern Italy.

## Practical trail information

• Starting point: Bomerano (Agerola)
• Ending point: Nocelle, above Positano
• Distance: 7.8 km
• Duration: Around 3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy, though unsuitable for people affected by vertigo
• Best season: April to October

Navigation apps such as Google Maps or AllTrails help track progress, viewpoints, and distances along the way.

## Safety and preparation tips

Check weather conditions before setting out and avoid hiking after heavy rain. Wear sturdy footwear with good grip and carry a fully charged phone. Even with its easy rating, the trail requires attention on uneven sections and narrow paths.

## Getting to the trailhead

The hike begins in Bomerano, reachable by SITA bus from Amalfi. Drivers usually stop near the village center, where signs lead to the trail entrance. From Positano or Sorrento, expect a combination of buses via Amalfi, with travel times ranging from two to three hours. Travelmar ferries operate between April and October and offer a shuttle bus from Amalfi to Agerola, timed with ferry arrivals. This option simplifies logistics for travelers arriving by sea.

The trail finishes in Nocelle. From there, hikers can descend roughly 1,500 steps to Positano, take a local bus, or continue toward Arienzo for a swim before walking into town. Ferries from Positano provide easy connections back to Amalfi, Sorrento, or Salerno.

## Highlights along the way

Key points on the route include the Grotta del Biscotto, cliffside ruins, terraced stone walls, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Capri, Li Galli, and Punta Penna. Vegetation changes noticeably, shifting from open hills with grazing animals to dense Mediterranean woodland.

## Food stops and picnic ideas

Before starting, stock up in Agerola with water, focaccia, and fiordilatte cheese for a simple picnic. Near the end, Chiosco degli Dei serves fresh lemonade and sandwiches. For a full meal with sea views, La Tagliata Restaurant sits about one kilometer beyond Nocelle and is best reserved in advance.

## What to wear and bring

Choose hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers, lightweight clothing, sun protection, and a small backpack with water, snacks, and basic essentials. Trekking poles may help on uneven stretches, though they are optional. Begin early to avoid heat and crowds, carry enough water, and plan return transport carefully. The final descent into Positano can feel demanding, so pace yourself and allow extra time.

Keep in mind that the Path of the Gods is a mountain hiking trail, not a tourist attraction. Do not attempt to hike the trail in flipflops! We suggest hiking boots, hiking shoes, or sturdy shoes with non-slip soles. If you’re hiking in summer, bring plenty of water, and wear a hat and sunscreen. In the spring and fall, pack a windbreaker in your backpack in case it rains. It can also be helpful to have access to a navigating system such as Google Maps on your smartphone so you can orient yourself along the hiking trail.

The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) is a trail through the countryside so it is always open and free. Local authorities close the trail if there are nearby wildfires or landslides that make it dangerous for hikers and walkers.Older children can take on the trail, but keep in mind that it takes about four hours to hike the entire length. It is not paved, so not accessible to strollers or pushchairs. You can carry an infant in a carrier or backpack, but time your hike early or late to avoid the midday sun. In all cases, make sure you apply sunscreen, wear hiking shoes, and bring plenty of water. Access to Google Maps during the walk is also helpful so you can orient yourself along the hiking trail.

You can stop for a picnic along the trail or for a sit-down lunch at a restaurant in Nocelle. In Agerola, there are a number of excellent delis and food shops to pick up picnic supplies (make sure to buy the local fiordilatte mozzarella). Otherwise, hike the trail to Nocelle and then stop for lunch at one of the charming local restaurants there, including Ristorante Santa Croce, la Tagliata, or il Ritrovo.

To get to the starting point for the Path of the Gods, take the Sita to Agerola from Amalfi. Once take the trail back to Positano, you need to return via Sita bus or walk down to the Positano port to catch the ferry to Amalfi that runs from April to October. In the summer, there is also an Amalfi - Agerola shuttle bus managed by Travelmar, the ferry company, that offers the service to their clients.