Bomerano: the start
The walk begins in Piazza Paolo Capasso, the main square of Bomerano, where the SITA bus from Amalfi stops. Fill your bottle at the fountain here: it’s the first of only three water points on the route. Signs point you down Via Pennino. After about 300 m you reach some steps and turn right over a small wooden bridge onto the path proper.
Cliffs, caves and the fork at Colle La Serra
The first stretch runs under high limestone walls and past the Grotta del Biscotto, a group of caves that were once lived in and have long been used by shepherds. You’ll often see goats and the odd mule along here.
At Colle La Serra (about 580 m), the path splits:
- Left (the classic line): more open and more panoramic, with steeper drops beside the path.
- Right (327a): less exposed. Take this if you are uneasy about heights or it’s windy.
The two join again after roughly 1.3 km, so you won’t miss the rest of the route whichever you choose.
Terraces and farmhouses to Nocelle
The second half contours along the mountainside through Mediterranean scrub, past terraced plots and old stone farmhouses, some still in use and some abandoned. Positano comes into view ahead, and so does Capri on a clear day. The path is uneven, with loose stone in places, and there’s little shade.
It ends in Nocelle, a hamlet of Positano at about 430 m. There’s a fountain here, and it’s the natural place to stop and rest before the last part of the day.
From Nocelle down to Positano
You have two options:
- Walk the steps. Roughly 1,700 stone steps drop steeply from Nocelle to Arienzo, on the coast road (SS163) just east of Positano. From there you follow the road into town. It’s hard on the knees, and the road stretch has traffic, so take care.
- Take the bus. A small local bus, run by Mobility Amalfi Coast, goes from Nocelle via Montepertuso down to Piazza dei Mulini in Positano. It isn’t frequent, so check the timetable before you set off.
Getting back to Amalfi or Sorrento afterwards is covered in getting there and back.
Want less transport hassle? Many visitors book a guided hike for the transfers alone. The route is easy to follow on your own in good weather.
Common questions
Can I walk it in the other direction, from Nocelle to Bomerano?
Yes, and CAI gives about the same walking time. But you climb more than you descend, and you have the view behind you. If you also start from Positano, take the bus up to Nocelle rather than climbing those 1,700 steps first. See hiking it from Positano.
Is it suitable for children?
For children used to walking, yes: there’s nothing technical. Keep them close on the exposed sections, as there are no railings, and choose the less exposed 327a variant at Colle La Serra.
Is there anywhere to buy food on the trail?
Don’t count on it. Bring what you need from Bomerano or Amalfi. Nocelle has a few places to eat.