Zanna Van Dijk

2022 AMALFI COAST HIKING ADVENTURE WITH ZANNA

8 days / 7 nights

30th June – 7th July 2022

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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Explore the dramatic Amalfi coastline on this active adventure
  • Daily hikes taking in some of the most scenic trails in Europe, including the ‘Footpath of the Gods’
  • Visit the Isle of Capri by boat & explore its hidden treasures
  • Explore Pompeii and hike the crater of Mount Vesuvius
  • Kayak along the coastline and visit archeological Roman sites
  • Visit iconic Positano, Ravello and Amalfi for the ultimate Neapolitan adventure 
  • Get off the beaten path & escape the crowds in one of the most famous European destinations

At the top of my hiking hit-list is the Amalfi Coast, a bucket list destination, famous for being the playground of the rich and famous. But what you may not know is that it is an area jam packed with incredible scenic coastal hiking. There are dramatic cliffs and rock formations, nature reserves, wildflower meadows, historical sites of the Roman Empire and iconic cliffside towns to explore. So I thought I should pull together a once in a lifetime trip to show you the lesser known side of this popular destination.

We start the adventure in Naples, exploring the architecture of the cultural centre and meeting the rest of the team over a welcome supper. Next up is trip to Pompeii, where we will get up close to the fascinating Roman ruins of this archaeological site where you can easily imagine daily life before Vesuvius erupted. In the afternoon we venture to the volcano itself, as we walk around the crater and up to the highest point you will experience the sulphur and steam of Vesuvius. With 360 views of the coastline and inland, you’ll get a sneaky snapshot of our hiking territory for the week ahead. 

Heading to Agerola for the night, which is known as “little Switzerland” for its beautiful mountain landscape, cool air, and alpine-like atmosphere. This quaint village is the starting point the following morning for a stunning descent through vineyards, woodlands and meadows, with magnificent views of the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri. This route is known as the ‘Footpath of the Gods’ and it will soon become very clear why it has this name.

Nestled on the hillside overnight you will awake in your hotel to heavenly views to inspire your next hike to Positano, the dramatic and deluxe cliffside town where houses cascade down to the sea in a riot of colour. Along the way you will pass through local farms, fields of wildflowers and herds of goats before reaching the Montepertuso Crossing, a deep limestone gorge. Once you have reached Positano and had time to soak in the magnificence, hop on a boat to Amalfi and enjoy the scenery from a different viewpoint. 

Spending the night here, it’s an early start for an adventure by ferry to Capri. Bold colours of turquoise seas, contrasting boats, towering cliffs and buildings galore welcome you to the isle. On your circular walk you will see a mix of historical sites and untouched coastlines. Truly picture perfect. There will of course be time for us to dip our toes in the water and soak up this special place.

Back to Amalfi on the ferry, a restful evening awaits before a magical day of walking. Taking in a variety of deep and lush valleys, you’ll come across spectacular waterfalls, ancient water mills and ironworks whilst hiking on Day 6. With it’s own microclimate this area is almost tropical with so much nature to see. After lunch you will head back to the beach at Amalfi where it’s time to get into the water again, this time for some kayaking. A slow paddle along the coastline to Santacroce, the perfect beach to pick up an aperitif before heading back to Amalfi.

The final group hike is back up the Valley of the Dragon to Ravello, where iconic cliffside gardens and opulent architecture have inspired many an artist, writer and musician. Best described as closer to the skies than the sea, the views are set to blow your mind. Back down to base in Amalfi, a farewell dinner awaits, where no doubt we will be reminiscing on the views, the hikes and our new found friendships. I can’t wait for this one – I think it’s going to be rather special. 

ITINERARY

The full 8-day itinerary for hiking the Amalfi coastline is available to download. It includes essential day by day trip information as well as packing lists, medical notes and other helpful guidance.

This is an active adventure where you will need a decent standard of fitness. Some days we will hike 10-12 kms over 4-5 hours. Some of the hikes will have steep inclines.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY

ABOUT INTREPID TRAVEL

I have researched long and hard to partner with a travel company who is recognised as a force for good. Intrepid Travel is part of the B-Corp movement, going through a rigorous process for certification and recognition for their positive impact on the planet and the local communities that they work within. It’s an independently owned travel company that focus on sustainable, experience-rich travel, whilst operating a business with a purpose beyond profit. Read more about their Foundation here.