FATMAP by Strava

Valley of the Ancient Mills, Amalfi - Ravello

Climb away from Amalfi through the Valle Delle Ferriere, passing waterfalls, derelict buildings and lemon groves, and finishing in Ravello in the Piazza Duomo.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
6.2 km
Ascent
558 m
Descent
208 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
7 m
High Point
357 m
Gradient
10˚
Valley of the Ancient Mills, Amalfi - Ravello Map

No matter how much the coastline and nearby piazzas of Amalfi may be bustling with tourists, within a few minutes of this hike you will escape the crowds and be greeting locals with your heartiest ‘Buongiorno!’ This is a glimpse into how life in Amalfi has existed for generations; an old man balances precariously atop a wooden lattice, 3 metres high, tending to his lemon trees, which droop under the weight of the grapefruit-sized, yellow treasure for which the region is famed. Derelict stone buildings – old paper mills – crumble beside a swift stream as nature steadily reclaims her territory. All this set within an amphitheatre of magnificent limestone cliff-faces.

Description

The quiet, forgotten village of Pontone greets you halfway through the hike, its sleepy Piazza San Giovanni is a peaceful spot to break for a drink or lunch. From Pontone, the colourful houses of Amalfi, far below, appear like a ribbon threaded through the valley, nestled between two mountains, and with an unbeatable backdrop of the Mediterranean, a rich sapphire-blue.

Ravello is a popular village where tourists enjoy browsing through the vibrant ceramics shops and art galleries, stepping into history in the old monasteries and churches, or watching the world-go-by with a gelato ice cream, or a slice of pizza in the Piazza Duomo, the square around which the village is centred.

From here, you can return to Amalfi by bus or continue on foot.

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

in April, May, June, July, September and October

Features

  • Historical
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Family friendly

Guidebooks in this area