Walk & Discover – Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast & Pompeii

Arrive at the airport for your flight to Naples. We transfer by coach to Sorrento, where we stay seven nights with breakfast and dinner at the comfortable three-star Villa Maria. 

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3* Villa Maria - Sorrento

Chosen for its wonderfully warm and friendly atmosphere.

• Central location
• Rooftop pool & sun terrace
• Comfortable and convenient

Since ancient Greek and Roman times, Sorrento has been known for its fabulous olive oil and our first walk takes us through the area’s legendary olive groves. Both easy and moderate routes begin in the hilltop village of Annunziata, with scenic views of the island of Capri, and end in Sorrento where the rest of the day is at your leisure.

Easy walk
Duration: 3 hours (3.7 miles)
Altitude gain: 324 feet
Terrain: stone paths, tarmac and gravel

We walk along tiny alleys and olive groves as we pass through the town of Massa Lubrense. As we follow the winding path, we see stone houses and ancient stone walls, and catch views of the beautiful Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance. Take in excellent views over Sorrento as our descent takes us back to the town centre.

Moderate walk
Duration: 4 hours (5.5 miles)
Altitude gain: 577 feet
Terrain: stone paths, tarmac and gravel

From Annunziata, we make our way down to the seafront and walk along the shore. The path gently climbs above the sea, giving us wonderful views of the bay and Mount Vesuvius. Our walk continues through olive groves and as we near Sorrento, we pass grand villas. Get ready for even more superb views of the town on our return to the centre.

Today we take a short boat ride to discover Capri’s charms. It has long been the most desirable part of the Bay of Naples, attracting Roman emperors and Hollywood stars alike. The main town is perched on a hill overlooking the quaint harbour, with whitewashed restaurants and shops lining the streets.

You have some time to explore the island, maybe join a boat trip around the island or make your way to the famous Blue Grotto – the large sea cave named for the incandescent blue light that bathes the cavern. Take a short walk from the harbour and you’ll find yourself in near-deserted lanes that pass terraced vineyards and lemon groves, with spectacular views of the rugged coastline and sea below – a true Mediterranean paradise.

On your free day in Sorrento, perhaps browse the numerous boutiques and sit down to a leisurely lunch in your choice of restaurant.

Today we experience the sublime Amalfi coast as we wind around glorious pine-clad cliffs that tumble into the Mediterranean. Just inland is the stunning village of Ravello, where after some free time to explore, we begin our walk.

Easy walk
Duration: 2 hours (3 miles)
Altitude gain: 422 feet
Terrain: stone steps, pavement and gravel tracks

Moderate walk
Duration: 4 hours (4.7 miles)
Altitude gain: 819 feet
Terrain: stone steps, tracks, country roads and gravel tracks

Leaving Ravello, we are rewarded with panoramic views of the coast. The easy walk descends a stone stairway through narrow terraces that seem to cling to the hillside, while the moderate route journeys through wooded hills before descending through the terraces. 

We follow the delightful Il Sentiero dei Limoni – the Path of Lemons – an enticing walk through the authentic heart of the Amalfi coast, where we get a glimpse of the relaxed pace of life enjoyed by locals. Of course, the path also takes us past the fragrant lemon orchards where the famed Amalfi lemons are grown. 

Both walks end in Maiori, a fishing town that was once the principal port of the Republic of Amalfi. There’s free time after to discover the town, so why not wander along the seafront and taste their fresh pasta for which they are famous?

Pompeii is so much more than a collection of ruins. Our guided tour highlights its astonishing state of preservation – streets, temples, baths and even the amphitheatre remain largely intact. Many buildings still have murals and mosaics, while others are inscribed with graffiti describing political events, romantic entanglements and even gossip of the time. 

Later our local guide will bring to life the history of Herculaneum, located in the shadow of mighty Mount Vesuvius. Like Pompeii, it was buried under mud and ash when the volcano erupted in AD79. It wasn’t until the first major excavation in the 18th century that the hidden secrets of this ancient settlement were revealed. It may be less well-known than Pompeii, but the state of preservation of the buildings at Herculaneum is generally far superior.

We drive along the beautiful Amalfi coast once again this morning and call at the exclusive resort of Positano. Its jumble of colourful buildings nestled into the cliff oozes chic and charm, and the steep streets are lined by smart boutiques and wisteria-draped hotels. You have some time to wander before we drive inland to Bomerano, where we follow the legendary Il Sentiero degli Dei, the Path of Gods, along a mountain ridge above the Mediterranean. The walk features breathtaking views of the sea and coastal towns below, lovely wildflowers and rich birdlife.

Easy walk
Duration: 3 hours (3.4 miles)
Altitude gain: 700 feet
Terrain: tarmac and rocky clifftop paths

Moderate walk
Duration: 4.5 hours (4.7 miles)
Altitude gain: 858 feet
Terrain: tarmac and rocky clifftop paths

Both walks follow the contours of the low slopes of Monte Tre Calli. The path undulates along the peninsula and towards Capri through pine woods and scented lemon groves. We arrive at the lovely hamlet of Nocelle, where our easy walk finishes. The moderate route continues around a natural inlet in the mountainside and down to Montepertuso – look out for the wonderful views over Positano. 

Looking for a challenge? At the end of both walks you may wish to walk down to Positano and back up. After a wonderful day, we return to Sorrento for our final evening in this idyllic part of the world.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.