Amalfi and Capri

With its head in the clouds and its feet in the sea, the precipitous Amalfi Coast has long been exalted as the most spectacular coast in all Europe. Across the blue Bay of Naples from Amalfi is enticing Capri, a sun-splashed jewel of an island soaring out of azure waters. With hikes on ancient footpaths connecting hilltop villages and seaside hamlets, we explore this glorious realm surrounded by amazing landscapes. We also watch mozzarella di bufala being made, taste homemade pastas, enjoy trailside picnics, explore the remains of Herculaneum and out-of-the-way Paestum, and finish with a hike on the rim of brooding Mt. Vesuvius. Our Italy Trip Leaders are simply the best in the world, with a true passion for sharing their love of la bella Italia.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-3
Naples / Herculaneum / Paestum / Ravello

We gather in Naples and head to the fascinating remains of Herculaneum, unearthed from the lava of Vesuvius with its mosaics and frescoes still intact after 2,000 years. At the majestic Greek ruin of Paestum, we spend a morning exploring its beautiful temples and artifacts. Later we watch a demonstration of how traditional fresh mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala campana) is made from buffalo’s milk, followed by a cheese tasting. An afternoon hike brings us from Minori, a lovely village of seafront promenades, to top-of-the-world Ravello, perched on a spur high above the glittering Mediterranean. The next day’s hike is a leisurely descent from Ravello to the shimmering blue sea.

Days 4-5
Sentiero degli Dei / Positano / Capri

Our panoramic hike across the spectacular Sentiero degli Dei (“Path of the Gods”) leads us through groves of Italian cypress and fields of wildflowers, past ancient stone huts, and across hillsides overlooking the sea. Reaching stunning Positano, we ferry to the isle of Capri, with its Roman ruins, high trails with sweeping views, and stone-paved lanes fragrant with lacy swathes of wisteria. Our hikes here offer eye-popping views across the azure sea and of the famous gray spires of the Faraglioni Rocks, familiar from the many classic movies filmed in Capri.

Days 6-8
Capri / Sorrento Peninsula

A ferry brings us to Sorrento, with its truly inspired location atop rocky cliffs at the end of a peninsula. In the countryside, we enjoy a wonderful walk through walnut and olive orchards, down through classic farmsteads, and through lemon groves with views back to Capri. We end our journey with a memorable hike on the outer rim of Mt. Vesuvius, the only active volcano on mainland Europe. Depart via Naples on Day 8.

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What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 3+. Our town and country walking tour consists of day hikes of 4-6 hours over often hilly terrain with many ascending and descending staircases and stone steps. We carry just a daypack. Our luggage is transported for us by van, so it is usually possible to ride in the van if you want to opt out of a day's hiking. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 p.m.

Explanation of Trip Levels