Amalfi and Capri

Pompeii, Ravello, Mt. Vesuvius, and Spectacular Coastal Hikes

Overview

The Amalfi Coast has long been exalted as the most inspiring in all Europe, and across the Bay of Naples lies enticing Capri, soaring out of azure seas. We’ll link these two realms with moderate hikes, cultural encounters, and superb meals! One hike brings us from top-of-the-world Ravello to the town of Amalfi, and on craggy Capri, we follow a rocky trail to the very top of the island. Back on the mainland, we hike across lemon groves in the Sorrento Hills, then walk along the brooding crater rim of Mt. Vesuvius. Between hikes, we’ll watch mozzarella di bufala being made, visit an olive farm, and explore the haunting ruins of Pompeii.

Itinerary at a Glance

Days 1-3
Naples / Pompeii / Paestum / Ravello

After a pizza lunch in the colorful city where it was invented, we stroll in the Roman city of Pompeii, buried in ash yet remarkably preserved when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. We explore off-the-beaten-path Paestum, a majestic Greek ruin, and hike up a steep coastal trail to ravishing Ravello, with its incredible perch above the sea. Another panoramic hike brings us down to the seaside town of Amalfi, with lunch right in the town square.

Il Granaio dei Casabella
Paestum, Italy
Day 1 (1 night)
Hotel Rufolo
Ravello, Italy
Days 2 to 3 (2 nights)
Days 4-7
Sentiero degli Dei / Positano / Capri / Sorrento

On the fantastic high trail known as the Sentiero degli Dei (“Path of the Gods”), we hike across terraced hillsides down to Positano, one of the most photogenic towns on the Amalfi Coast, with brightly painted houses draped in bougainvillea. Ferrying to Capri, our hikes lead along rocky trails to imperial Roman villas and up Mt. Solaro for views of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius. Back on the mainland in sunny Sorrento, with its old town high on a sea cliff, we visit an olive farm and hike through fragrant lemon and walnut groves.

Hotel Gatto Bianco
Capri, Italy
Days 4 to 5 (2 nights)
Hotel La Favorita
Sorrento, Italy
Days 6 to 7 (2 nights)
Days 8-9
Mt. Vesuvius / Naples

Our last hike takes us along the rim of Vesuvius, with exquisite views of the coat and a chance to peer into the steaming abyss of the volcanic caldera. The ash produces rich soil for growing grapes, and we’ll enjoy lunch at a winery on the volcano’s slopes. Depart on Day 9 via Naples.

Highlights

Highlights

Hike the spectacular Sentiero degli Dei (the “Path of the Gods”) above the Amalfi Coast
Overnights on magnificent Capri—after the day-trippers have gone!
Explore mysterious Mt. Vesuvius, ancient Pompeii, and intriguing Paestum
Savor Amalfi’s fresh-caught seafood, Neapolitan cuisine, and wine from the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius

Details

Length: 9 days
Cost From: $6195  
Arrive: Naples, Italy
Depart: Naples, Italy
Lodging: 8 nights small inns and hotels
Meals: All meals included except 1 lunch and 3 dinners as indicated in the Detailed Itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
Activity: Hiking / Trekking, Cultural Adventures, Culinary
Trip Level:

A mix of moderate walks and hikes, some steep staircases, 3-6 hours a day, van support