How hard is the Path of the Gods hike?
Why is it moderate, not easy?
The path itself is a gentle contour along the cliff, roughly 3 hours of steady walking. But three things make it more than a stroll. First, the surface — you’re always on uneven, rocky ground, sometimes loose underfoot, and footing requires attention. Second, the exposed sections. The trail hugs the cliff and in several places there are no railings between you and a serious drop. If you are comfortable with exposure and keep your footing, it’s fine; if you have a fear of heights, these passages matter. Third, the 1,500-odd steps down to Positano at the end — after three hours of walking, knees feel it.
Who it suits
The Path of the Gods is right for anyone with active fitness who doesn’t mind rocky footing and can handle a bit of exposure. Hikers with no experience find it doable if they take it slowly and wear grip trainers or hiking shoes. Parents often bring teenagers; families with small children should think twice because of the exposure and the steps at the end. If you have a genuine fear of heights, the cliff sections will make you uncomfortable.
Fitness: what does moderate mean?
You don’t need to be training for a marathon. A moderate hike means you should be able to walk for 3–4 hours on uneven ground with one or two breaks. If you walk to work or exercise regularly, you’re probably fine. If you haven’t walked for more than 30 minutes in a year, start with shorter walks first or consider a private guide who can set a slower pace and stop often.
The exposure and railings
There are sections of the path where the cliff drops away beside the trail and the path is only a metre or two wide, with no fence or railing. These passages are secure if you stay on the path and watch your step, but they are exposed. If you have a phobia of heights or young children prone to wandering, be aware. A guide can also help by pointing out where to step and reassuring nervous hikers.
The 1,500 steps
At Nocelle, the trail ends high above Positano. To reach the town you can either walk roughly 1,500 stone steps down (some sources say up to 1,700) or catch a small local bus Nocelle→Positano. The steps are steep and relentless; after a 3-hour walk, they hit your knees hard. Most people take 30–45 minutes on the steps. You can break whenever you like and sit on the steps to rest.
More details: see how many steps down to Positano and where the trail starts and ends.
What works
- The path is free to walk — no entrance fee or permits needed
- No technical climbing or scrambling; it is straightforward to navigate
- The scenery more than justifies the effort
- Best direction (Bomerano to Nocelle) is net downhill
Worth knowing
- Uneven, rocky underfoot — you need focus and good footwear
- Exposed sections with no railings — matters if you fear heights
- No shade; you need water, sun hat and sunscreen
- The 1,500 steps at the end hit your knees; allow 30–45 minutes
If you are nervous about the exposure, book a guided hike with transfers. A guide on the spot can reassure you through the exposed passages, and you won’t worry about getting lost or missing your bus.
Book a guided Path of the Gods hike
The most straightforward way to hike the Path of the Gods is with transfers from Sorrento or another hub — no bus timetables, a live guide, and lunch at the shepherd’s hut. Round-trip transfer and guide included, with free cancellation if your plans change.
Next: see where the trail starts and ends, what to wear on the hike, or all available tours.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Path of the Gods an easy hike?
No. It is moderate — doable for most active people, but uneven rocky ground, exposed drop-offs with no railings, and 1,500+ steps at the end make it more than a casual stroll. Comfortable shoes and a head for heights help.
Can beginners do the Path of the Gods?
Yes, if they are fit and move slowly. You don’t need technical skill or climbing experience. Wear grip trainers or hiking shoes, bring water and sunscreen, and take breaks. If you are nervous, hire a guide for reassurance.
How hard are the 1,500 steps down to Positano?
They are steep and relentless, especially on tired legs. Most people take 30–45 minutes. You can rest whenever you like, and a small bus (Nocelle to Positano) is also available if your knees have had enough.
Is there any exposure or heights to worry about?
Yes. In several places the path has no railings and drops away beside the trail. If you keep to the path and watch your step you are safe, but if you have a fear of heights, these sections matter. A guide can help.
What fitness level do I need?
Reasonable fitness — you should be able to walk for 3–4 hours on uneven ground. If you exercise regularly or walk to work, you’re likely fine. If you haven’t walked more than 30 minutes in a year, consider a slow private guide.