There are few stretches of Mediterranean coastline more legendary than the Amalfi coast, just to the south of Naples, just off the Gulf of Salerno. It’s an extremely popular destination for jet setters, and has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, thanks to its wealth of picturesque little villages and downs, nestled between soaring cliffs and gorgeous blue ocean.
It’s a part of the world that provides holidays of every kind, with sweeping coastal roads and spectacular rail routes. But if you want to really soak in the location, then your best bet is to travel on foot with a walking holiday.
The Slow Travel movement draws inspiration from the Slow Food movement that swept through Italy in the 1980s. It aims to push travel as a means of connecting to local culture, history and art, rather than a quick hit of excitement and spectacle. If you’re going to be traveling slowly, you’ll embrace a mindset that’s opposed to Instagram culture, and to-do lists. You’ll save money, make deeper connections with the place, and prevent yourself from being overwhelmed by the trip.
Walking should form a big part of your slow-travel adventure. Since you’re not in any great rush to get from one place to another, you can move on foot rather than via other means.
When it comes to slow-travel holidays, the Amalfi Coast makes an excellent match. It’s appealing largely thanks to its seclusion. The landscape prevents these little towns and villages from being expanded, which leads them to retain their picturesque, historic qualities. There are cathedrals in this part of the country which have stood since Norman times, and pastel-shaded towns of the sort you might recognize from various Hollywood productions.
There are several wonderful routes spread through the coast. Let’s consider some of the best of them.
Undoubtedly the best-known walking trail on the coast, this route will take you through several miles of clifftop, from which you’ll be able to enjoy unparalleled views of the surrounding scenery. If you want to enjoy the trail at its best and least crowded, try to set off before sunrise.
This is a route that’s sure to appeal to history lovers. You’ll walk the distance to the point at the end of the Sorrentine Peninsula, from where you’ll be able to look out toward the Isle of Capri.
This trail is actually inland, and among the easier hikes available. It’s a route that just about everyone should be able to tackle, and there are gorgeous waterfalls and other sights to see along the way.
On the other hand, some hikers might want a challenge. What could be more challenging, then, than Monte Molare, which will take you right up to the highest point on the Amalfi coast?
