Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)

Partendo proprio dal Sentiero degli Dei da quella strada sospesa sul magico golfo delle Sirene, solcato ancora oggi dalla memoria e dal mito. – Italo Calvino È questo il paesaggio che, dall'alto del Sentiero degli Dei, si apriva al nostro sguardo : è lo scenario di quell'estrema ansa della Costiera Amalfitana che guarda verso ovest, verso l'isola di Capri, quella costa ripida, afosa, con le montagne cristalline ove si abbandonano gli Dei di oggi e si scopre di nuovo un sé perduto, mediterraneo, anteriore. – D.H. Lawrence

Sentiero deglie dei - Kārlis Dambrāns

The Amalfi Coast overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea in Salerno, Campania is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. It is a popular tourist destination for its stunning views, beautiful beaches and charm. Many people don't realize that the Amalfi Coast is also home to one of the most spectacular hikes in the world. The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) is a beautiful hiking trial, over 500 meters (1640 feet) above sea level along the coastline between Bomerano in Agerola and Nocelle near Positano.

The gorgeous views and mythological history is why Italian historian and politician Giustino Fortunato named this path the "Sentiero degli dei" (Path of the Gods) in the 19th century. According to the legend the Greek Gods stomped out this path as they came down to save Odysseus from the Siren's song on the Islands of the Sirenusas (Li Galli islands), located right off the Amalfi Coast.

The path is about 4 miles long that snakes along the mountains and offers breathtaking views, lush vegetation including vineyards, olive groves and citrus trees. As you travel along the path you will also see a number of old structures that have crumbled over time from the forces of nature. The hike can take between 2 to 3 hours to complete. I would suggest taking your time and enjoy the scenery. Bring plenty of water, some sandwiches and find a spot where you can enjoy a picnic. This is a hike so wear comfortable walking shoes. Some of the path can be narrow and you will walk over rocks and some rough terrain. The path can get crowded at times, so you are better off going early in the morning. You may want to let the morning mist and fog dissipate so it does not obscure the scenic views.

If you start your trip in Praiano, which is below Bomerano or Positano, which is below Nocelle be prepared to climb steps. To get to the path from either town you will need to go up over 1500 steps. You may not want to wear yourself out before you get to the path. You are better off starting from Bomerano and walking to Nocelle or from Nocelle to Bomerano.