Hiking the Path of the Gods from Positano

The Path of the Gods in the Amalfi Coast, or Sentiero degli Dei, is consistently cited as one of the most breathtaking hikes in the world. But as I stood in Positano, looking up at the towering cliffs, I had to wonder, is hiking the Path of the Gods worth it? And more importantly, how do you even get there from Positano? The numerous Google and ChatGPT searches yielded diverse results…

Here’s my honest take and exactly what you need to know to enjoy your experience hiking the Path of the Gods from Positano. 

Is Hiking the Path of the Gods Worth It?

This is the most important question, and my answer is, it depends.

For me, someone who loves distance hiking and hut-to-hut treks, it’s a definite yes. Hiking the Path of the Gods was one of my favorite parts of our time in Positano.

However, for others, it’s likely a no. For a lot of people the hike is challenging, sweaty, and not entirely worth it. This is supposed to be a vacation after all. And I totally understand that. For many, a view with a cocktail in hand at Franco’s Bar is the preferred way to see the stunning coastline – no sneakers needed.

If you are not keen on getting your heart rate up, you might prefer to skip the Sentiero degli Dei. You can see equally captivating views from the towns of Positano and Ravello, or better yet, from a boat on the water.

We hiked the Path of the Gods in May. It was not crowded or overly hot. There were sections where we didn’t see any people, and others where there were small groups resting.

How Difficult is the Path of the Gods?

This is a moderately difficult hike. It’s certainly not a casual walk in the park. There is some steeper inclines (stairs) and uneven terrain throughout. Plus, the whole hike hugs the cliff overlooking the sea, not for the faint of heart.

• Footwear: I highly recommend wearing good sneakers or trail runners. You do not need heavy hiking boots, but please do not wear sandals, flats or something less durable, like Toms. The terrain is not the easiest, especially if you are not typically a hiker.
• Terrain: The path is often uneven, rocky, and can be slippery from foot traffic, even when dry. There isn’t a ton of elevation gain overall, but some sections are a steep incline or descent up or down natural stairs.
• Safety: There are not always railings, and there can be steep, open cliffs. I’d be extra careful with children or for those afraid of heights.
• Weather: If the weather is not cooperating (heavy rain or even wind), skip the hike. The terrain would be much more difficult, wet and muddy, and the views would be obscured – better to stick with Franco’s Bar in that case.
• Guide: You do not need a guide to hike the Path of the Gods from Positano. The path is straightforward and easy to follow, once you get there. There’s practically no way of getting lost.

How to Start Hiking the Path of the Gods from Positano

This was the most confusing and challenging part for us. The “traditional” hike starts in Bomerano and ends in Nocelle (the hamlet high above Positano). I Googled and Googled and could still not find any clarity. Luckily our host at Casa Lou, came to the rescue. I highly recommend staying at Casa Lou if you get the chance.

The problem? Getting from Positano to Bomerano is a huge pain. It requires a long, non-direct bus journey or a very expensive taxi, expect €100+. 

So, we hiked the Path of the Gods in “reverse”, which our host called the smartest way to see the best parts.

Step 1: Get the Bus from Positano to Nocelle to begin the hike

Your starting point is in Nocelle. Take the local SITA bus from the stop in Positano (just across from the Euro Frutta 2000 market).

This bus ride itself is… an experience. It’s steep, winding, and made most of our group feel quite ill. Like very ill. If you’re anything like our group, I highly recommend taking a Dramamine beforehand. Don’t let the short duration fool you. It’s tough on the stomach. I know, sounds unnecessary for a little bus ride, but these roads are no joke.

Pro tip: Eat a small breakfast before you head out. We neglected to eat anything, thinking there would be a cafe at the starting point. There was not – hangry, nauseous and severely under caffeinated, we made our way to the start of the path.

Step 2: Hike from Nocelle towards Bomerano

Once you’ve collected yourself in Nocelle, begin the hike going east towards Bomerano.

Not too far into our journey, we happily stumbled upon an unassuming restaurant, Il Chiosco del sentiero degli dei. This place was a lifesaver. I highly recommend a stop.

Il Chiosco del sentiero degli dei is suspended over the cliffs with amazing views, friendly service and a bathroom. We ordered Caprese sandwiches, freshly squeezed juice and coffee. I’m not sure if it was the deprivation after the ride, but the Caprese sandwiches were just phenomenal. So simple, yet so special. This was exactly what our group needed. The fresh baked goods and pies looked delicious too. 

Step 3: The Hike & The Turnaround Point

After our sandwich stop, we were much better equipped to enjoy the awe-inspiring views. From here, the Path of the Gods winds through shaded forests and then opens up to those “picture-perfect” vistas you’ve seen all over Instagram. 

About half way in, two members of our group dropped off, in favor of some Aperol Spritz instead. The rest of us hiked for a while, past a spot where people were rock climbing, and then decided to turn around. We didn’t complete the entire journey to Bomerano, but we felt we had seen the most jaw dropping sections.

On our way back, we followed a little sign down to Grotta degli dei da Gino for a freshly squeezed lemonade in a shaded forest – a perfect pit stop before the final bits. 

Step 4: The Return from Nocelle to Positano

Once you’re back in Nocelle, you have two options:

1. Take the SITA bus back down (frankly, I couldn’t bear the idea of how ill I felt on the way up).
2. Walk down the 1,700ish stairs.

We chose to walk, and it was the far superior choice. The staircase leads you from Nocelle, through the hamlet of Montepertuso, and straight back down into Positano. Our stay, Casa Lou was actually on the journey down, so we didn’t need to go all the way into Positano. Another perk of Casa Lou.

What to Bring & Know Before You Go

• Allow at least half a day for the Nocelle-and-back route, including stops (it took us around 4 hours with stops).
• Footwear: I recommend good sneakers or trail runners, avoid open-toed shoes.
• Clothing: Athletic shorts and a top. It’s a sweaty one!
• Essentials: Backpack packed with plenty of water, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. Bring a camera or fully charged phone, and cash. The small cafe and the lemonade stand we stopped at only accepted cash.
• Head out as early in the morning as possible to avoid the midday sun.

Most importantly, have fun hiking the Path of the Gods from Positano. For my favorite hike in Italy (and yes, a bit more adventure), try Hiking in the Dolomites.

Want to see similar views along the Amalfi Coast without the hiking? Rent a car and take a road trip from Sorrento to Amalfi.

Prefer a luxury beach day instead, book a day at Arienzo Beach club.

Need more tips on what to see and do in the Amalfi Coast? I’ve got you covered.