Named for its legendary views, this ancient shepherd's trail traverses cliff edges high above the Amalfi Coast with sweeping sea panoramas, terraced lemon groves, and the promise of Positano below. One of Italy's most spectacular day hikes.
The Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) is a 7.8 km point-to-point trail traversing the high cliffs of the Amalfi Coast in Campania, connecting the hamlet of Bomerano above Agerola to the coastal town of Positano. The route follows an ancient shepherd's path at elevations between 400 m and 600 m above sea level, offering sustained panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Li Galli archipelago, and the rooftops of Positano far below.
The standard approach is by SITA bus from Amalfi to Agerola (approximately 45 minutes), from where a 1.5 km walk or local taxi reaches Bomerano at the trailhead. Drivers can leave vehicles at Agerola municipal car parks; the road to Agerola is steep and narrow. The return from Positano is by ferry or SITA bus along the SS163 coastal road. The trail is typically walked one-way; no entry fee or permit is required.
From the Bomerano trailhead, the path heads west along the mountain flank above Nocelle. The first 3 km pass through terraced lemon and olive groves with stone walls lining the path. The middle section crosses open cliff terraces with dramatic exposure and 180-degree sea views across the Tyrrhenian. The descent toward Positano begins near Nocelle and involves approximately 600 steps of steep stone staircase through the hamlet — a section that can be taxing on knees. Trail surface is compacted earth, stone steps, and rock ledges throughout, with some loose sections near the cliff edges.
There is no shade on the open cliff sections. The path is signed with red-white blazes and CAI (Club Alpino Italiano) numbered markers. Water is not available on the trail between Bomerano and Nocelle; a small café in Nocelle provides the only mid-trail refreshment stop. From Nocelle, the descent to Positano takes 30–45 minutes on the stone staircase and then village lanes, arriving at the beachfront.
The Sentiero degli Dei is one of Italy's most photographed day hikes. Foot traffic in summer is significant; an early-morning start is strongly advisable for photography and clear sight lines before sea haze develops. The combination of maritime wildflowers in spring and the sapphire Tyrrhenian Sea makes April through June the optimal aesthetic window.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Bomerano to Positano, Amalfi Coast, Campania
- Best season
- April to June and September to October
Highlights
- Amalfi Coast panorama
- lemon terraces
- Positano descent
- sea views throughout
- historic path
Tips for visiting
- Start from Bomerano before 08:00 in high season to avoid crowds and to have clear sea views before morning haze builds.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat; the open cliff sections between Bomerano and Nocelle have no shade.
- Book return transport from Positano (ferry to Amalfi or SITA bus) before starting the hike — ferries sell out quickly on summer afternoons.
- Bring 1.5 litres of water; the only refill point is the café in Nocelle, roughly halfway along the route.
- Trekking poles ease the 600-step stone staircase descent into Positano and reduce knee strain significantly.
When to visit
April to June is ideal for wildflowers, moderate temperatures, and clear sea views. September and October are also excellent. Midsummer (July–August) is very hot and heavily crowded; an early-morning start is essential on those dates.
Accessibility
Not accessible for wheelchair users or strollers. The trail traverses exposed cliff edges, steep stone steps, and uneven rock ledges throughout its length, with no bypasses for any section.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the trailhead at Bomerano?
Take the SITA bus from Amalfi to Agerola (approximately 45 minutes), then walk 1.5 km or take a local taxi to Bomerano. Bus timetables and tickets are available at Amalfi bus station and online.
Is the trail suitable for beginner hikers?
The trail is suitable for walkers with basic fitness. The cliff sections require care but no technical skill. The 600-step stone staircase descent into Positano is the most physically demanding portion and requires good knee stability.
Can the trail be walked in reverse from Positano to Bomerano?
Yes, but the steep initial climb from Positano up the staircase and then onto the cliff path is significantly harder. Most hikers prefer the Bomerano-to-Positano direction for a net descent of approximately 200 m.
Is the Sentiero degli Dei officially waymarked?
Yes, the trail is marked with red-white CAI blazes and numbered signs (Trail 327). The waymarking is clear throughout the route.
Are there any entry fees for the trail?
There are no park entry fees for the trail itself. Some private path sections near Bomerano have previously charged a small access toll; confirm locally on arrival at the trailhead.