Trek the High Trails of Italy's Amalfi Coast
Hike the remote Alta Via above Italy’s most beautiful coastline for spectacularly untrodden trails along the Mediterranean
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking mountain guideAll accommodation
5 nights in family-run agriturismi, 1 night in a hotel and 1 night in a mountain hutMeals
All breakfasts, 1 lunch and 5 dinnersTransfers
Airport transfers and everything in betweenPorterage
Vehicles to transport your luggage throughout the trekSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
Tackle one of Italy's most stunning yet little-known trails via rugged peaks and quaint villages, all with jaw-dropping views
Scramble from the highest peaks in the Lattari Mountains down to the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea for cool swims
Rest weary legs in family-run agriturismi, where you can tuck into delicious regional cuisine and get spoiled with warm Italian hospitality
Key Information
Day 1
Welcome to Naples!
Driving
Meet your host at Naples airport and transfer to the charming hamlet of Cava de' Tirreni, tucked into a beautiful location in the Lattari Mountains, overlooking the sea. In the afternoon, meet your guide at the hotel for a welcome briefing. Before dinner, you may wish to enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic centre and to the amazing Badia di Cava, one of the most impressive monuments of Southern Italy. Settle into your comfortable hotel and prepare for the adventure to come.
Day 2
Ascend to the top of Monte Avvocata
Hiking
Today you will complete the first stage of the Alta Via dei Monti Lattari, one of Italy's most stunning long-distance trails. Surprisingly quiet, the path follows the ridge of the Lattari Mountains, which form the backbone of the Amalfi Coast and the Sorrento Peninsula. Setting off right from your hotel, you'll follow a famous pilgrim route up through golden chestnut woods and along panoramic paths until the Avvocata Sanctuary, perched at almost 1000m above sea level. This is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular viewpoints of the entire coast, yet it's unknown to most visitors to the area. Descend down the trail to the edge of the Amalfi Coast at Maiori to dip your toes in the sea. A short local bus journey will take you up the verdant valley of Tramonti in time for dinner. Settle in your cosy, family-run agriturismo for the night and enjoy some hearty homemade food with local wine. Buon appetito!
Day 3
Above the clouds to Santa Maria dei Monti
Hiking
Hike to the Valico di Chiunzi, a small pass on the ridge of the Lattari Mountains, before climbing to the second-highest peak on the Amalfi Coast - Cerreto (1313m) - and take in the spectacular views of the coastline, Mount Vesuvius and Naples. Descend to a high plain and enter the Valle delle Ferriere nature reserve, continuing on to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria ai Monti, located high above the village of Scala and overlooking the coastal towns Amalfi, Ravello and Atrani. Your home for the night is a cosy mountain hut in a unique panoramic setting, the perfect spot to enjoy sunset and a rustic, fire-cooked dinner. Enjoy the solitude and serenity of this secret spot, hidden high above Italy's most glamorous coastline.
Day 4
The lush Ferriere Valley to Amalfi
Hiking
Take a detour from the Alta Via and hike down to Amalfi and the sea, via the picturesque villages of Scala and Minuta and the lush greenery and cascading waterfalls of the Ferriere Nature Reserve. A gradual descent will take you to the Valle dei Mulini, passing the ruins of ancient, 11th-century paper mills. Passing by lemon groves, walk into the UNESCO-listed town of Amalfi where you can spend the afternoon exploring, take a refreshing swim or people-watch with a gelato, before you transfer to the friendly village area of Agerola for the night.
Day 5
Climb Monte Molare
Hiking
The big one! Lace up your boots and tackle the highest peak of the Amalfi Coast. Walk through quaint Bomerano village and through breathtaking forest scenery, backed by stunning mountain views and seascapes. A steep, steady climb will take you to the summit of Monte Molare (1444m), suspended between the blue sky and sparkling sea. On a clear day, the 360-degree view stretches out to the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius, the Sorrentine Peninsula and the island of Capri. Begin a steep descent to Santa Maria del Castello, where you can celebrate your efforts with a hearty dinner in a family-run agriturismo.
Day 6
Descend to the Sorrentine Peninsula
Hiking
Fuel up on breakfast then set off from the doorstep of your agriturismo for a steady descent to the Sorrentine Peninsula, with the colourful hamlet of Positano at your feet. An easy stretch along the edge of the plateau leads to beautiful wildflower pastures. Hike downhill amongst the Mediterranean scrub and wild herbs, then parallel to the coast with spectacular views over the Islands of the Sirens. Reach your base in the afternoon - a converted farmhouse surrounded by apple orchards, vines, olive groves and woodland. Tuck into a meal made from local organic produce and enjoy a relaxing night with your fellow travellers in this authentic rural location.
Day 7
The blue Bay of Leranto
Hiking
Today you'll explore the ever-changing Mediterranean seascape, charming hamlets and fjords that dot the Sorrentine Peninsula all the way to its tip. Hike through pine woodland, olive groves and orchards down to the picturesque inlet of Marina di Crapolla, where you can enjoy a swim. Continue along undulating paths past medieval ruins and over spectacular cliffs until you reach Punta Campanella, the very tip of the peninsula. It was here that according to a legend, Ulysses erected a temple in honour of Athena. Finally, hike on to Termini village to enjoy a celebratory drink with a view of Capri, before a transfer back to Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi. Enjoy a last farewell dinner in the garden of your agriturismo and cheers to the completion of your epic Amalfi Coast traverse!
Day 8
Arrivederci
Driving
After a relaxed breakfast this morning you'll be picked up for your group transfer back to Naples Airport. Alternatively, you may wish to extend your stay in one of the nearby towns of Sorrento, Positano or Amalfi - surely a deserved treat after a solid week of hiking!
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Naples International Airport
14:30 on Day 1
Ends
Naples International Airport
11:30 on Day 8
Transfers
Your host will meet you at Naples International Airport on Day 1 and transfer your group to Cava de' Tirreni (approximately 1hr) - your starting point for the long distance trek in the the Amalfi Coast. If you wish to join the group arrival transfer (usually scheduled early afternoon), please book a flight landing in Naples before 14:30.
On the final day Day 8, your host will transfer your group from your accommodation in Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi, on the Sorrento Peninsula, back to Naples Airport. The transfer is usually arranged between 9am-10am, and the journey time to the airport is typically 75-90mins depending on traffic, but delays can happen. Please book a flight departing after 14:00. You host will advise you of the exact transfers arrangements and timings prior to departure, so please provide your flight details upon booking.
If you decide to arrive at a different time and wish to travel to the start point independently, the closest major city to your start hotel in Cava de' Tirreni is Salerno, well connected by train from Naples and other big cities. From Salerno, you can reach Cava de' Tirreni by regional train (15 mins) or local bus (30 mins). Given the Sunday arrival day, the starting hotel may be able to assist with a taxi/transfer from the train or bus station when you arrive in town, contact them in advance for more details. If you require further information about your travel options or wish to book a private transfer, just reach out to your host and they'll be able to help out.
Travel options
There are regular direct flights to Naples airport from major airports across the UK and Europe.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6 – Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Each region of Italy has its own distinct cuisine that reflects its history as well as local ingredients, and the Amalfi Coast is no different. This sunny and fertile area is famous for its freshly-grown ingredients, as well as for some of the best and freshest seafood in the country. Recipes are usually simple but delicious, making use of seasonal vegetables such as tomatoes, aubergines, artichokes and more. Although the region is commonly known as the birthplace of pizza, there are plenty of other local specialities you'll get to try during the trip. The Lattari Mountains pride themselves on their strong cheesemaking traditions and the local ricotta, fior di latte and provola are to die for! Lunches will be picnics prepared for you by the accommodation owners or purchased in the villages where you’ll be staying. In the evening you'll mostly eat in local agriturismi, which offer authentic home-cooked dishes prepared with seasonal and organic produce from the family farms.
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for - please just request this on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Cava de' Tirreni
You'll spend your first night at a comfortable hotel in Cava de' Tirreni, either the Hotel Palazzo San Giovanni, or the Hotel Scapolatiello (depending on availability). Both hotels feature stylish rooms with free WiFi, air conditioning, a restaurant and a bar. A terrace is also available at both properties.
Local agriturismi
For five nights on the trip you’ll be staying at family-run agriturismi - converted farms which feature ensuite rooms, WiFi, large verandas or gardens and are immersed in tranquil, rural settings. Meals are freshly prepared on the premises, providing an amazing opportunity to savour typical dishes from the region, cooked from ingredients from the family's very own produce.
Mountain hut
Enjoy the incredible opportunity to snooze at the Santa Maria dei Monti mountain hut, with breathtaking views of the Lattari Mountains and the Amalfi Coast. The group will usually be split into female and male dorm rooms with bunk beds, and facilities include shared toilets, a shared kitchen and complimentary bedding and blankets. A delicious dinner made with local produce and breakfast will be cooked by the local staff at the hut.
Staying at the mountain hut, you'll need to carry your overnight items in your backpack on Day 3 & 4. There is no luggage transfer on Day 3 due to the hut being inaccessible by road. Just as it should be!
Upgrades
Due to the style and limited capacity of the accommodation used on this trip, single rooms are limited and only possible for four nights of the seven nights (nights 1, 4, 6 & 7). See Optional Extras for the price and request this upon booking.
This trip has been rated as Challenging
The 'Alta Via dei Monti Lattari' is a six day hike on trails high above the Amalfi Coast. Trail conditions are generally non-technical paths, including sections of stone steps, but in some places there can be more rocky, overgrown and rough terrain to cover. There are some sections with sheer drops and steep trails that require confident footing. Hiking duration is typically between 5 to 7 hours a day, with considerable ascent and descent along the way. The distances and vertical change are provided in the itinerary, but as there are several paths to choose from in some sections, the exact route your guide will lead the group on may vary slightly. Along the Amalfi Coast changeable weather is common, with intense heat, sun, wind and rain all frequently having a significant impact on hiking conditions. This trip is suitable for hikers that are well prepared for these challenges.
What will I need to carry?
You'll need to have a larger bag suitable for your main luggage, which will be transported for you each day, and then a smaller daypack to carry personal items in during each day of hiking. Hiking poles are strongly recommended, and you will need to carry your waterproofs and 2-3L of water with you every day.
Note that on Day 3 there is no luggage transfer included from Tramonti to Santa Maria ai Monti mountain hut, due to its remote location, so you'll need to carry one change of clothing and any other essential personal overnight items with you in your daypack. You'll then have access again to your main luggage at your accommodation on Day 4.
From May to October the daytime temperatures in the Amalfi Coast range from 22 – 35°C and cool off to 11 – 20°C at night. The hot weather in summer (between July and September) can make some of the hikes more strenuous, however temperatures are generally much cooler up in the mountains, where you'll be hiking. Rain is possible at any time of year, although the weather is generally dry so you'll have plenty of sunshine to enjoy.
Lovely part of the world but the trip was a bit disappointing overall
If you’re a serious hiker or otherwise have a decent level of fitness, I don’t think you will find this trip challenging. The pace was pretty sedate, frustratingly so at times, as the guide took a ‘lowest common denominator’ approach to pacing which gave little freedom to enable those of differing abilities to go at their own speed.
Take a look at the distances and timings quoted in the itinerary to get a sense of the implied pace (I see these have been updated since my trip as there were a couple of inaccuracies with distances coming up short; the ‘difficulty rating’ section has also been updated and is now a better reflection of the reality although I’d still quibble with the overall ‘challenging’ rating).
A shout out to the excellent La Sorgente del Melo agriturismo on day 5, and while the hotel on day 1 was lovely, it was let down by its food offering. Some of the other accommodation and food choices left room for improvement.
Note if you’re travelling as a couple (male/female) you can expect to be split up on the triple share nights.
I didn’t take long trousers for the trails and notwithstanding a couple of scratches from the vegetation and a couple of days with torrential rain, I was happy with the decision to hike in shorts.
Apart from Amalfi town, which is a ghastly tourist trap and really not worth spending a full afternoon there, the Amalfi coast is stunning, with incredible views and the trails were (as promised) virtually empty and would be lovely to hike at your own pace. If I was to have my time again I’d do this trip self-guided or independently.
This was my sixth trip with MBA and the first for which I've given a review of less than 4 stars. However, well done and thank you to the MBA Customer Experience team for engaging seriously with our feedback post-trip.
Magical unique experience
Had the best time hiking the Amalfi trail. We were very well looked after by the lovely Norma, who navigated the routes perfectly and organised everything for us. She became a welcome part of the group. The highlights were staying in the exclusive mountain retreat with Antonio; and the view over Capris from the peak of Monte Molare. Food generally good though vegan/vegetarian needs could be catered for a bit better - plan in advance with the organisers. The best stay was in the family run aguriturismo in Santa Maria del Castello at La Sorgente del Mel, I'll never forget the warm welcome from the Italian owner and smiles all night, and an abundance of fantastic food, wine and limoncello. Most accomodation was good. Overall I'd recommend this trip as it was unforgettable and beautiful and ill treasure the memories for life.
Fantastic!
We had a fabulous time. A lovely group, amazing scenery, the walking varied and very enjoyable, the food really good and the accommodation too. Norma our guide was great. If you are thinking of booking this, do it!
Amazing scenery and a taste of Amalfi life
You couldn’t image scenery more beautiful than this. From the scent of wild herbs rising up as you trek through forest to mountain top, winding among picturesque coastal towns and villages, swimming in secret coves, eating rustic Italian food in the refuge and farms…this is a challenging, sensory and rewarding journey across varied terrain set against the finest backdrops. I met some brilliant people… TWC - you know who you are 🤣 We laughed a lot, my knees cried a little, and I never want to climb another step in my life. But it was all worth it ❤️ Special thanks to Norma, our fabulous, calm and stoic walking guide.
Brilliant trip with an excellent group!
This is a brilliant trip. Norma was a great guide and the group was excellent. Scenery was stunning with lots of varied walks through forest, mountains, coasts and towns. All the accommodation was lovely and the food was delicious. Really recommend it! I agree with other comments about packing a pair of long trousers. There is less time on the final day than the trip notes suggest so prepare for an earlier transfer back to Naples but it means there is time to explore Naples before a later flight, or even a trip to pompeii if flying late in the evening or the following morning.
Unforgettable week along the Amalfi Coast
The trek can be tough due to the heat and humidity and some days are longer than described but at the end of the day an amazing trek with different landscapes, the sea is never far! on top of that best group ever.
Simply Stunning!
I thoroughly enjoyed our week of hiking - an amazing group of like minded people and lead by Norma from start to finish. Would highly recommend as the scenery is amazing along the route. Tip for those who decide to take this on: pack some long trekking pants as much of the trail has high vegetation and hence a few of us got scrapes along the way (a small sacrifice for the overall enjoyment!)
Trek Amalfi coast
Greta scenery, hot but thundery weather, great food and accommodation and a great group.