Walk & Discover: Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast & Pompeii

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 Green and Blue 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.

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.

From Termini, we make our way down to Annunziata, enjoying stunning views along the way. Our walk continues through olive groves following the same route as the Green walk, stopping at Massa Lubrense along the way.

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.

The Green walk descends a stone stairway through narrow terraces that seem to cling to the hillside.

The Blue walk 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, we’ll visit a family-owned, working farm and enjoy a simple lunch featuring the farm’s own products and other locally sourced ingredients.

Today we take the Amalfi coast road to the town of Scala, where our Valle delle Ferriere walk begins.

The Green walk starts in the town of Minuta taking a staircase down to the hamlet of Pontone. Here we join the Valle Delle Ferriere nature reserve with its many small waterfalls and historic ruins.

The Blue walk starts in the town of Scala, following the nature reserve to Pontone, before continuing along the same trail as the Green walk to Amalfi.

Both walks end in Amalfi where you will have some free time before returning to Sorrento.