Hidden Gems of Italy: Punta Campanella Trail, Amalfi Coast

Suppose you're looking to explore a quieter, more scenic side of the Amalfi Coast... In that case, the Punta Campanella Trail is a hidden gem I highly recommend! On a short two-day trip to the Amalfi Coast, my partner and I were eager to get away from the crowded tourist spots and spend time outdoors. With plenty of driving ahead of us, we also wanted a way to stretch our legs, so we decided to hike the Punta Campanella Trail! The hike ended up being a highlight of our trip. If you enjoy hiking and spending time outdoors, this hidden gem should definitely make your itinerary.

A Guide to Hiking the Punta Campanella Trail, Italy's Hidden Gem

Why Visit Punta Campanella Trail?

While the Amalfi Coast is known for places like Positano and Ravello, the Punta Campanella Trail offers something unique—solitude and connection with nature. We found the hike to be a much-needed, refreshing escape from the nearby tourist-filled towns. The hike itself and surrounding area is also more secluded and quiet than other hikes in the area. It offers panoramic views of the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea, the island of Capri in the distance, and the rocky coastline surrounding you.

In addition to its natural charm, the trail has a rich historical background. On the path, you will find ancient watchtowers that serve as a reminder of a time when the region needed protection from pirate invasions. One of these, the Saracen Tower, still stands.

What to Expect When You Visit

The trail is located at the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula, just a short drive from more popular towns like Sorrento and Positano. We drove to the trailhead and arrived early in the morning, which made parking much easier. Free street parking is available close to the trail, though it can fill up quickly during the high season. The hike begins with a steady downhill trek, which means you'll need to be prepared for an uphill return, but the beauty of the trail makes up for the effort.

We visited in the spring, and the weather was perfect. It was sunny but still cool in the early morning. As we descended toward the water, we were struck by the peacefulness of the area. What still stands of the watchtower is not the most exciting landmark, but for those who are adventurous, you can climb up the dilapidated entrance to look inside.

The trail, spanning approximately 4 ½ miles (out and back), is relatively easy, but provides enough variety of views, historical points, and potential for off-trail exploration to keep things interesting. If you're visiting with children or have mobility concerns, it's worth noting that the trail is mostly accessible, though the uphill sections can be tiring, and the stone path is pretty uneven at points.

The best time to visit would be in spring or early fall when the weather is mild and the trail is less crowded. In the summer, the heat can make the hike more challenging, and the trail may attract more visitors. If you can, plan to arrive early in the day to avoid the heat and potential crowds.

Adventuring to the Grotta di Minerva

For the adventurous souls, a thrilling addition awaits near the watchtower—repelling down to the Grotta di Minerva. To find the path to the Grotto, follow the trail just past the watch tower, and it will be straight ahead.

This hidden cave was a religious site in ancient times, and getting there was quite an adrenaline rush, requiring rappelling down ropes and ladders to reach it. It's definitely worth the extra effort, but make sure you're prepared with the right equipment and, preferably, a guide if you're not experienced in rappelling.

Insider Tips for Visiting

• What to Bring: Wear hiking shoes with good grip, especially if you plan to scramble down to the Grotta di Minerva. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen—there's little shade on the trail. A camera is also a must to capture the stunning views!

• Avoiding Crowds: Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the trail before it gets busier. We found that our early arrival made for a peaceful hike, and we had large stretches of the trail to ourselves.

• Check the Weather: The trail can be slippery when wet, so check the forecast and avoid the hike if heavy rain is expected.

• Hidden Viewpoints: Keep an eye out for small, unmarked paths that lead to hidden viewpoints over the water. These spots are perfect for taking a break and snapping some incredible photos of the surrounding scenery.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

If you're exploring the Punta Campanella Trail, several nearby attractions make for an even richer Amalfi Coast experience.

• Positano: Just a short drive away, Positano is one of the most iconic towns on the Amalfi Coast. Its colorful cliffside buildings make it a must-visit for anyone in the area! Positano is a great place for a post-hike meal (we recommend Chez Black!) and shopping at the many local shops in town.

• Sorrento: Another nearby gem, Sorrento, offers a charming mix of history, food, and stunning views over the Bay of Naples. Whether you want to enjoy a seafood lunch or explore the historic sites, Sorrento is a great complement to your day of hiking.

• Fiordo di Furore: For more natural beauty, head to Fiordo di Furore, a hidden fjord tucked away along the coastline. It's the perfect spot for a refreshing swim and offers some of the best coastal views in the region.
  

By combining your hike at Punta Campanella with visits to these nearby attractions, you can enjoy all of the Amalfi Coast's best features.

Conclusion

The Punta Campanella Trail is truly one of Italy's hidden gems and was a highlight of our time in the Amalfi Region. With its stunning views, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere, it's a perfect escape from the area's busy towns. Make sure to add Punta Campanella to your Amalfi Coast itinerary—you'll leave feeling refreshed and connected to the region's beauty!

If you end up going, let me know what you think in the comments!