As we return to our everyday lives, it's the perfect time to reflect on the incredible journey we shared through the sun-drenched lands of Italy in October of 2024. 
Our adventure began with a warm welcome at a hotel in Naples. We were greeted with Prosecco and a brief tour of the city’s historic center, where we explored its colorful streets, nativity miniatures, and stunning cathedral before heading to our first shared meal. z
The next morning, we set off toward Mount Vesuvius, the towering active volcano that has dramatically shaped the region. We hiked up the mountain to witness the smoking fumaroles and learned about their historical eruptions. Afterward, we explored Pompeii, the ancient city frozen in time by a catastrophic eruption in 79 AD, offering us a fascinating glimpse into Roman life. Our day concluded with a scenic drive over the Lattari Mountains, where a rainbow appeared in the sky before we arrived at our base in Maiori. 
Our next adventure took us to Bomerano, where we began our hike on the famous Path of the Gods. The clear skies offered breathtaking views of the rugged Amalfi coastline. After an invigorating trek, we enjoyed a delicious pumpkin ravioli lunch in Montepertuso before continuing on to Positano, where we took a ferry to Amalfi. There, we had time to explore the charming coastal town before returning to Maiori for a much-needed rest. 
Later in the week, we embarked on a stair-intensive climb up to the town of Ravello, a quaint village known for its stunning villas and panoramic views. For those who preferred a gentler pace, there was ample time to explore the town's historic sites. For the hikers, we passed through the Valley of the Mills, a picturesque route with remnants of ancient paper mills and iron foundries. After a rewarding climb, we reunited for a delicious pizza lunch, limoncello, and some free time to explore Ravello before returning to Naples for an overnight ferry to Sicily. 
The following morning, we disembarked the ferry and made our way to the ancient ruins of Segesta, where we hiked around Mount Pipista and enjoyed views of the iconic temple. A tasty lunch awaited us at an agriturismo, and afterward, we visited the temple itself for a closer look before continuing to our seaside hotel in Trapani. 
On Levanzo, we took a hydrofoil from Trapani to this remote island, home to ancient Neolithic and Paleolithic cave paintings. We explored the Cave of the Genovese and marveled at these remarkable artworks from 7,000 to 12,000 years ago. Afterward, we enjoyed a picnic lunch before returning to town via the coastal path, with an optional swim in the crystal-clear waters. In the evening, we visited the medieval town of Erice, known for its charming streets, castles, and stunning sunset views. 
A welcome break came on our day off in Trapani, where we explored the salt pans and watched windsurfers take advantage of the strong winds. A tour of the town of Marsala was followed by a visit to the Pellegrino Winery, where we enjoyed a tour, tasting, and a delicious lunch. The afternoon was free for relaxation, shopping, or exploring. In the evening, we shared a final dinner together at Cantina Siciliana, a quaint restaurant known for its traditional Sicilian dishes. 
As the trip neared its end, we bid farewell to Louise, who continued on her own journey, before heading to the Zingaro Nature Reserve. Here, we hiked along the coastline, learning about its historical watchtowers and the local tuna fishing industry. After the hike, we visited the Grotto Mangipane caves and enjoyed a charcuterie lunch before touring the historical village. Our final stop was Scopello, where we checked into the charming Baglio dello Zingaro for a peaceful evening. 
Our final day took us back to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, where we explored the local movement to protect the area from overdevelopment. After a beautiful (though hot!) hike, we enjoyed a picnic by a hidden cave and beach before transferring to Palermo for our last night. We wrapped up the journey with a celebratory dinner at Il Mirto e la Rosa, sharing stories and reflecting on the trip's many memorable moments.
This journey through southern Italy and Sicily was truly special. From the awe-inspiring landscapes to the rich history and unforgettable meals, it was an experience that will remain with us for years to come. We highly recommend joining us on this scenic journey through Sicily and the Amalfi Coast, where breathtaking hikes, historical sites, and stunning coastal views await.
