DESCRIPTION
The Path of the Lemons and the villages of Ravello, Atrani, and Amalfi.
Geographical Location
The starting point of the hike is Maiori, a municipality in the province of Salerno in Campania, situated on the Amalfi Coast. Maiori is located at the confluence of the Reginna Major stream, in the Gulf of Salerno.
Hike
This itinerary constitutes the second stage of a journey along the Amalfi Coast and unfolds along one of the most characteristic historic paths of the region: the Path of the Lemons. This ancient pedestrian connection passes through the small village of Torre and continues along the mountain ridge separating Maiori and Minori, representing one of the most scenic routes in the area.
The Path of the Lemons is a relatively easy walk, suitable also for less experienced hikers and families with children, allowing you to skirt one of the panoramic stretches of the coast. The path is characterized by a continuous alternation of ascents and descents on steps and staircases, with panoramic terraces and ancient pergolas laden with lemons that attract thousands of visitors every year.
Crossing through gardens and lemon groves for about two and a half kilometers, you enjoy wide views over the villages of Maiori, Torre, Minori, and Ravello.
The second part of the route, which includes the ascent to Ravello and the subsequent descent towards Atrani and Amalfi, is equally interesting but requires tackling numerous staircases. The effort, however, is compensated by the extensive panoramic views of the coast.
The final section, from Amalfi to Pogerola, involves a new climb. Although less scenic than the previous sections, it offers interesting glimpses of the city below.
Overall, this stage is quite challenging both due to the total elevation gain of almost 900 meters and the length of 10 kilometers. The main characteristic is that almost the entire route develops on staircases, both uphill and downhill.
History and Curiosities
The Path of the Lemons
When it was created, this route represented the only pedestrian connection between the villages of Minori and Maiori, with the alternative being exclusively transport by sea. Today the two centers are connected by the modern Amalfi State Road, but the Path of the Lemons retains its historical and natural charm intact. These citrus fruits, which gave the path its name, are renowned worldwide for their elongated shape, intense perfume, and particular flavor. The Sfusato Amalfitano has obtained the PGI recognition. The path boasts a centuries-old history: generations of farmers and peasants have shaped this unique route over time, creating a cultural landscape of extraordinary value.
The Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta and San Pantaleone
Ravello's cathedral was built starting in 1086, with the establishment of the diocese of Ravello, by the will of the first bishop Orso Papice. It remained the episcopal seat until 1818, when the diocese of Ravello was merged with that of Amalfi.
Villa Cimbrone
The villa has very ancient origins, dating back to the 11th century. Its current form is due to Ernest William Beckett (Lord Grimthorpe), an English nobleman who at the end of the 19th century, precisely in 1904, purchased the property and completely renovated it. Currently, Villa Cimbrone is a luxury hotel and its gardens are visitable for a fee.
Atrani
With an area of only 0.1206 km², Atrani is the smallest municipality in Italy by territorial extension.
The Cathedral of Amalfi
The building dedicated to the Apostle Saint Andrew was commissioned by Duke Mansone I starting in the year 987, when he obtained from Pope John XV the elevation of the city to an archiepiscopal seat. The cathedral was later consecrated to the Apostle Saint Andrew.
ITINERARY
From Maiori (10 m) take the staircase from Corso Reginna leading to the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare. Upon reaching the church, on the right, you will notice the signs for the start of the Path of the Lemons. Follow the path to Minori (10 m). Here, to the right of the Locanda del Pescatore on Via A. Gatto, a staircase ascends with signs for Ravello. Climbing up, you pass in front of the Church of San Michele (221 m) and arrive at the Duomo of Ravello (365 m).
From the church, proceed towards Villa Cimbrone (364 m). Just before an arch, take the descent for Atrani, passing by the Church of Santi Filippo e Giacomo (73 m). In Piazza Umberto I in Atrani (11 m), to the right of the Caffè Vittoria, follow the sign for Amalfi (attention: the signage is not very visible).
Upon reaching Amalfi (10 m), take Via San Lorenzo d'Amalfi, pass Piazza dello Spirito Santo, continue on Via Cardinale Marino del Giudice and Via Casamare, where the path to climb to Pogerola (305 m) begins.
EXCURSION DATE
October 20, 2025
STARTING POINT
Maiori
REFRESHMENT POINT
There are multiple refreshment points along the itinerary, especially in the villages you pass through.
AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
Reach Maiori by public transport or taxi, because parking spaces are very few and very expensive.
SAFETY ADVICE
The viability of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain morphology, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. Therefore, before setting off, consult the relevant tourist offices and/or the reference mountain huts.
Our GPX tracks are only indicative, meaning the route was done under the best conditions of the trails and weather on that specific day. Therefore, always assess the situation on site.
Also remember to evaluate the route based on your physical abilities, training, and the equipment you have.
It is advisable to inform someone of the itinerary you intend to follow.
Remember that the emergency number is 112.
EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to have equipment suitable for the route, weather conditions, and season: windproof and/or rain jacket, map and/or GPS device, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking boots, first aid kit, specific clothing, gloves, backpack with food and drinks.
RECOMMENDED MAPS
CAI, Monti Lattari. Penisola sorrentina. Costiera amalfitana. Isola di Capri. Trail map scale 1:25000
INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.maiori.it/
HOW TO ARRIVE
From Salerno take the SS18. In Vietri sul Mare continue on the SS163 until you reach Maiori.
PARKING AREA
All paid. Almost impossible to find free spots.
GPS Coordinates: 40.646869, 14.644246