Amalfi Coast: Hike & Kayak

Benvenuto! Welcome to Italy. Your adventure begins in Naples – the capital of the Campania region – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe head out and discover some of Naples' impressive architecture and monuments, many of which date back to the Spanish rule of the 16th and 17th centuries. Maybe check out the Royal Palace of Naples or head through a grand plaza to Museo di Capodimonte. A European cultural capital since the time of the Greeks, this city has lots to offer. After the meeting, maybe ask your leader for recommendations for an authentic Neapolitan pizza for dinner.

After a leisurely breakfast, board your private minibus to the mighty Vesuvius. Walk around the rim of Vesuvius' crater and watch the sulphuric gases and steam emerging from the gravel. Then, take a scenic drive to the Agerola high plain. Along the way, you'll see views over the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. After, head to the Pompeii archaeological site. Finely preserved, these ruins give you an authentic image of what daily life was like in an old Roman city with villas, temples, theatres and bustling markets. Walk along the chariot-marked streets that sat under the shadow of Vesuvius, until the fatal eruption in AD79. Visit the Roman Forum and Basilica, nearby temples, public baths and the tiny Odeon that was created for music recitals.

Today is a free day for you to relax in Agerola or take on some of the area's walking trails. You can head to the viewpoint of Punto Panoramico for views over the Amalfi Coast – from here, descend through a spectacular landscape, which overlooks the Isle of Capri and the densely forested mountains of Cilento National Park. Your path leads you through Mediterranean landscapes covered in vineyards, chestnut trees, oaks, shrubs and flowers. Spot the many old ruins dotted along the hillsides as you go. In spring, you can even smell fresh Italian herbs as you walk past steeples of limestone rocks through lush vineyards. This afternoon, maybe visit the village of Bomerano and grab some lunch, an aperitif or a glass of the local limoncello.

This morning, you’ll take on what has become one of Italy's most famous hiking trails – the Sentiero degli Dei (Footpath of the Gods) – which will bring you all the way to Positano. This path winds its way through unique scenery and boasts unrivalled views of the coast. Walk through forests and fields of wildflowers, past ancient stone huts and beside sheer walls of granite. Glimpse local farmers tending their crops by hoe and elbow grease, herds of goats feeding beside the trail beside their shepherds and teams of workmen commuting by mule. By late morning, you’ll reach Vallone di Grarelle, then continue to the hamlet of Nocelle – a picturesque village above Positano. Walk through the village to the Montepertuso Crossing – a deep gorge with limestone walls. From Montepertuso you’ll walk down the old steps, through olive groves and vineyards, to Positano. Continue to Amalfi by boat and take in the gorgeous scenery from a different viewpoint.

Today, you’ll explore the gorgeous Isle of Capri, where Roman emperors used to holiday. Take a ferry along the beautiful coastline, passing the islands of mythical sirens from Homer's Odyssey. As you approach, you’ll be welcomed by cliffs and crashing blue seas (don’t forget your camera!). When you arrive in Capri, head out for a walking tour of all the local sights, then take a circuit walk passing Villa Jovis (the ruins of the most impressive Roman villa on the island, once home to Emperor Tiberius), a historic monastery and the winding alleyways of the village of Capri. Follow the untouched coastline and many impressive grottos (take some time to dip your feet in the water – the best way to cool off). Later this afternoon, take the ferry back to Minori for the night.

This morning, you’ll hike to the village of Pontone through the Scala di Pontone (the Stairway of Pontone). This staircase is part of the network of paths that crisscross the Amalfi Coast, providing access between the coastal towns and the hillside villages. Once in Pontone, continue through the Valle del Dragone (Dragon Valley), characterised by its expansive views of the Mediterranean Sea. This valley is known for its dramatic landscapes, including steep cliffs, deep gorges and waterfalls. The lush vegetation, including olive groves, lemon orchards and Mediterranean scrub, adds to the beauty of the area. The name is said to come from the winding shape of the valley, which resembles a dragon's tail. After some time to refuel, head back to Amalfi and hit the beach for a kayaking experience along the coastline. Paddle along the coast towards Santacroce – a small but gorgeous beach where you can grab an aperitif before paddling back.

This morning’s hike from Minori to Ravello offers gorgeous views of the Amalfi Coast and you’ll be able to explore the small villages that dot the way. Begin your ascent towards Ravello, situated high above the coastline. This scenic trail winds its way through terraced lemon groves, offering panoramic views of the coastline below. When you arrive in Ravello, take some time to explore the hilltop village. Visit the historic sites such of Villa Cimbrone, wander through the streets and enjoy the views from the gardens overlooking the coast. From Villa Cimbrone, you'll start your descent towards the town of Amalfi. Take the Via Santa Chiara – a scenic path that winds its way down the hillside. After a day of exploring, retrace your steps along the steep mule track back to Amalfi. Tonight, why not find a spot with a view and tuck into a bowl of pasta to reward your efforts.