Amalfi Coast suggested itineraries

Above the terraces and precipitous seacliffs of the Amalfi coast, the Sorrentine peninsula rises to a high valley of ravines and dramatic crags, culminating in the Monti Lattari. Here is a wilderness haven where kestrels, buzzards and peregrines circle over the rocky heights and within which unique microclimates support rare wild flowers and amphibians.

Leading away from the coastal towns, stone paths which have been used for centuries lead you along trails through forests and across high mountainsides offering breathtaking panoramas. Four of the most spectacular walks are along the Sentiero dei Dei, into the Valle delle Ferriere, the Valle dei Mulini and around Punta Campanella. These walks are not difficult, but can be strenuous as you ascend or descend the mountain paths and old stairways. Walking boots are recommended.

One of the most spectacular of these walks is along the Sentiero degli Dei- the path of the Gods- so named after the many Roman temples built here - or perhaps because, as you traverse this ancient route, you feel as if you are on top of the world, looking down upon the rapturous seascapes. You can begin at Praiano or Vettica Maggiore and end in picturesque Nocelle. This fabulous four-hour hike leads through groves of cypress and fields of flowers, past caves and across precipitous hillsides above the sea. There are breathtaking views as far as Capri. En route, a diversion will take you to visit the San Domenico Complex with its church and convent.

You can experience more great views of perched villages and shimmering sea along the route to the Valle delle Ferriere Reserve. Beginning in the costal village of Atrani, the path leads past views of the gardens and villas of Ravello to the Valle Dragone and then on into the Valle delle Ferriere - a mysterious lush valley with waterfalls and springs, in which rare spectacled salamanders, red woodpeckers and carnivorous Pinguicola plants can be found.

Another ancient mountain track leads from the 12th century defensive stronghold of Pontone to the Valle dei Mulini - the valley of the mills. In the fascinating ruins here the fine paper for which Amalfi is famed was once made, using Egyptian cotton shipped to Amalfi from the beginning of the 10th century.

An amazing view of the peninsula's most Western point - Punta Campanella is the goal of a fabulous climb, with panoramas which are breathtaking, particularly at sunset. The walk begins at Termini and takes you past Nerano, Marina di Cantone, Marina Recomone and Torca to Massa Lubrense. Along the way you can see a whole series of defensive forts and towers and, in the settlements, churches and chapels. You climb on upwards to Monte San Costanzo, 497m, to be rewarded with unforgettable seascapes - views of Capri, and the Gulfs of Salerno and of Naples. Below you, the shimmering peacock waters around Punta Campanella are now protected as a marine reserve.