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Sicily and the Amalfi Coast
Naples Bay, Amalfi Coast, and Sicily
10 Days
From $5395
Hiking and Culture
Sicily and the Amalfi Coast
Naples Bay, Amalfi Coast, and Sicily
10 Days
From $5395
Hiking and Culture
Trip Overview
The Amalfi Coast is simply stunning: rugged mountains, craggy seashore, and azure blue ocean serve as a backdrop to tiny villages perched on steep hills. The hiking is delightful hiking, the history is fascinating, and the cuisine is exquisite. The island of Sicily shares all this and yet is different in every way with its own distinctive feel. The southern coast of Italy has other delights too: we'll visit the ruins of Pompeii, climb Vesuvius, eat pizza in Naples, learn Sicilian cooking, visit the ancient town of Erice, see sea salt being produced, visit an island off the coast and hike to caves to see ancient art, visit ancient Roman and Greek ruins, taste local wine. Add all this to friendly people and it's little wonder that this area is widely regarded as the perfect vacation spot. Maximum group size: 14.
Highlights
- Experiencing the best of southern Italy, from the bay of Naples to the island of Sicily
- Exploring charming towns and ancient ruins, including Pompeii and Segesta in Sicily
- Exploring the the stunning Amalfi Coast on foot
- Visiting beautiful Sicily to see how sea salt is produced and sample local Marsala wine
- Taking a boat to Levanzo, the smallest of the Aegadian Islands and hiking to see ancient art etched into caves
- Hiking in the Natural Reserves of Zingaro, the oldest in Italy
- Savoring regional cuisine, local wines, and fruits and vegetables fresh from the market
Inclusions
- An Italian guide and an Adventures in Good Company trip leader (If there are fewer than 8 on the trip there will not be an AGC guide)
- Nine nights double occupancy lodging
- All meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 10, unless otherwise noted
- Ground transportation in Italy once you've reached the hotel on Day 1, including boat, bus, ferry, and airport transfer on the last day
- All activities on the itinerary, including guided tours of Pompeii, wine tasting and a cooking class
What's not included: Transportation to Naples or from Palermo, transportation to the hotel on Day 1, guide gratuities, beverages (other than water) and travel insurance.
Trip Info
This trip is for women who have some experience hiking and want to combine hiking with immersion in the history and culture of the area. We spend 3-6 hours hiking on most days at elevations ranging from sea level to over 2,000 feet. Some hikes are on well-maintained trails; others involve walking over loose dirt, rocks, ash and many stone stairs, and include stretches with some steep ascents and descents. The trip is rated 3. Prior to beginning the trip, participants should be engaging in aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for 30 - 45 minutes at least 3 - 4 times a week.
Rating: 1 2 [3] 4 5.
This trip combines hiking with visiting archeological sites, sampling local wines and cuisine, and learning about the natural and human history of the area. Note: Dinners are both larger and later in Italy than most Americans are used to, and while we usually try to have dinner between 7:30 and 8:00 PM, it may occasionally be later.
Most of our accommodations are locally owned small 3 star hotels in double rooms with private bathrooms, as specified in the itinerary. We'll also spend one night in double-cabins on the overnight ferry from Naples to Sicily. Our trip cost is based on double occupancy. We will pair you with another traveler unless you request a specific roommate. There are also 2 single supplements available for an extra cost. Availability of rooming options will be on the registration form. Be sure to note your choice.
Trip Resources
Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
Our trip officially starts today at our hotel in Naples, Italy at 4 PM. You can either fly directly into Naples or fly into Rome (always a fun city in which to spend time) and take the train from there. Vibrant Naples is steeped in history with atmospheric neighborhoods and many world-class museums. We'll gather at the hotel Alabardieri to meet our guide at 4 pm, then we will be transferred to the Amalfi Coast, at our hotel located in Agerola, a peaceful hamlet in the Lattari Mountain, immersed in nature and far from the tourist crowds. Southern Italy is known for its fabulous cuisine and tonight we'll enjoy the first of many delicious meals.
Overnight: Agerola-Amalfi Coast (D)
Overnight: Agerola-Amalfi Coast (D)
DAY 2
A private transfer this morning takes us to Amalfi, the start of today's trail. Today we visit Valle Mulini (Valley of the Mills), a delightful valley that was once the center of Amalfi's important paper industry. In late morning we'll reach the enchanting town of Ravello. Ravello is called the balcony of the "Costiera" because of the amazing views we can enjoy from here. This small, somewhat sleepy village is a lovely oasis of quiet in the sometimes overly busy Amalfi coast, with lush gardens, nice little squares, and cobbled back alleys. We will continue our hiking until the town of Amalfi. We have some free time to explore the town of Amalfi and enjoy magnificent views of colourful houses cascading down from the steep hill into a dark blue sea. In Amalfi we'll visit some of the town's famous sites, including the Piazza Duomo and the ornate 11th century cathedral of Saint Andrew. The Amalfi Coast is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, a liqueur made from lemons, and we'll finish with a visit to a local producer before returning to the hotel for dinner and the night. (B/L/D)
Overnight: Agerola- Amalfi Coast. Hiking: 4 hours. Elevation: +/-1150 feet
Overnight: Agerola- Amalfi Coast. Hiking: 4 hours. Elevation: +/-1150 feet
DAY 3
Today, we set our sights on Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. Early in the morning, we will visit the ruins of Pompei, which offer a fantastic glimpse into Roman life as it was 2,000 years ago. Considered to be one of the world's premier archaeological sites, Pompei is one of the most significant proofs of Roman civilization. After this excursion, we'll have a wine and local product tasting in a small family run winery located in the Vesuvius area.
In the afternoon, we will reach the top of Mount Vesuvius, the destination of our walk. We'll climb the top of this active volcano, the Bay of Naples serving as our backdrop, while our guide shares their knowledge of the mountain's geological and natural history. After the walk, we will return to Agerola, where we will dine and spend the night. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Agerola- Amalfi coast. Hiking: Mt Vesuvius 1.5-2 hours. Elevation +/- 650 feet, Pompeii 3 hours
In the afternoon, we will reach the top of Mount Vesuvius, the destination of our walk. We'll climb the top of this active volcano, the Bay of Naples serving as our backdrop, while our guide shares their knowledge of the mountain's geological and natural history. After the walk, we will return to Agerola, where we will dine and spend the night. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Agerola- Amalfi coast. Hiking: Mt Vesuvius 1.5-2 hours. Elevation +/- 650 feet, Pompeii 3 hours
DAY 4
A short private transfer this morning takes us to the start of today's trail. Our trail is rightly called the "Sentiero Degli Dei", or "The Path of the Gods". This route lives up to its name with dramatic views of a rugged coastline, and distant sightings as far as the island of Capri! We will reach the shore close to Positano and spend some time in this world-famous little town that clings precariously to a high cliff. We have some free time to explore the town, before returning to Naples in the afternoon. It would be a shame to leave Naples without sampling its world-famous Neapolitan pizza and that is what we'll do for dinner. We then head to the port where we board the overnight ferry to Sicily, in a cabin with twin beds and private facilities. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Ferry. Hiking: 4 hours. Elevation - 1,900 feet
Overnight: Ferry. Hiking: 4 hours. Elevation - 1,900 feet
DAY 5
Once we arrive at Palermo Harbor, we'll have breakfast then take a private transfer to Segesta. We will walk in the gentle and lovely countryside of the Val d'Erice, exploring one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Sicily: Segesta. The ancient city founded in the fourth century BC preserves the Doric Temple and the theatre which opens onto the surrounding hills. Climb up to the summit of Mount Pispisa and enjoy the view of the archaeological area. It will give us an appreciation for its size and the amazing preservation. Afterwards, we will transfer to Trapani to check-in at our hotel.
Overnight: Trapani. Hiking: 3.5 hours. Elevation +950 feet/-950 feet (B, L, D)
Overnight: Trapani. Hiking: 3.5 hours. Elevation +950 feet/-950 feet (B, L, D)
DAY 6
Today, we will take a hydrofoil to explore Levanzo, the smallest of the Aegadian Islands. Levanzo will show us a jewel from the ancient past: The Cave of Genovese. Dated back to between 11,000 and 12,000 years ago, we'll see remnants of history from the final phase of the Paleolithic period. Here we will view primitive human messages etched into the cave, a prehistoric sanctuary where religion and culture joined together. Engravings, graffiti, and paintings depict deer, cows, horses, fish and humans in daily life, including scenes of hunting and fishing. While on our trek, enjoy views of the Mediterranean countryside and soaring gulls. We'll board our hydrofoil and head back to Trapani. We will have time for a shower at our hotel and then head out to dinner in the wonderful town of Erice, overlooking the city of Trapani. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Trapani. Hiking: 3.5 hours. Elevation + 650 feet/- 600 feet
Overnight: Trapani. Hiking: 3.5 hours. Elevation + 650 feet/- 600 feet
DAY 7
This morning, we will visit the town of Marsala. We'll see some of the amazing windmills and salt pans area, one of the only still working in Italy and the main income of the region for centuries. Afterwards, we'll have free time to visit the elegant historic center of the city and its Phoenician museum. In the afternoon, we will visit the world class cellars producing the famous Marsala wine taking its name after the town. We will transfer back to Trapani to rest our heads. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Trapani.
Overnight: Trapani.
DAY 8
Our private transfer will take us to San Vito Lo Capo, a lovely town located between spectacular mountains and famous for its idyllic beaches. Climb up to Mount Monaco, which owes its name to the particular shape that reminds one of a kneeling monk with hands clasped in prayer, easily seen from the antique tonnara (tuna fishing plant) of San Vito Lo Capo. At the end of our hike, we will transfer to Castellammare del Golfo, a lovely seaside town. Dinner and overnight stay at Castellammare del Golfo. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Castellammare del Golfo. Hiking: 2.5 hours. Elevation +1500 feet/-1,100 feet
Overnight: Castellammare del Golfo. Hiking: 2.5 hours. Elevation +1500 feet/-1,100 feet
DAY 9
A short private transfer this morning takes us to the hamlet of Scopello, the start of today's trail. From Scopello, we will walk to Sicily's first nature reserve, Zingaro. Established in 1976, it is home to towering limestone mountains interspersed by spectacular caves. It also has a coastline dotted with coves and cliffs overlooking the sea - all very impressive and beautiful. There will be a chance to swim at one of the various coves of the Reserve. This evening, we will take time to enjoy a glass of wine at our farewell dinner and will spend our final night in Castellammare del Golfo. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Castellammare del Golfo. Hiking: 5 hours. Elevation +1,600 feet/ -1,600 feet.
Overnight: Castellammare del Golfo. Hiking: 5 hours. Elevation +1,600 feet/ -1,600 feet.
DAY 10
Sadly, our trip officially ends this morning. Continue on to other explorations or, if you must, fly home from the Palermo airport. Your AGC guide will help coordinate taxis from the hotel to the airport based on similar flight times. (B)
Reviews
4.4
(21 reviews)
5
(11)
4
(7)
3
(3)
2
(0)
1
(0)
*These are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "What made this trip special for you?". We take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you have.
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Deb D.
6 months ago
Federica & Tali were exceptional guides!! Very interactive & attention to details was so appreciated :)
Mary M.
6 months ago
Beautiful places and wonderful women who were great companions! Caring, helpful guides…..,, I loved it!
Virginia S.
6 months ago
Fabulous guides, vigorous hikes, beautiful views, great companions!
Janine L.
1 year ago
GREAT VIEWS, GOOD HIKES AND LOTS OF CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Dawn O.
1 year ago
The trip was wonderful, I enjoyed traveling this beautiful country with the lovely ladies and visiting the small coastal towns along the way. The hiking was amazing, the views just kept getting better each day.
Kathleen M.
1 year ago
Seeing new places and meeting new people.
Katherine L.
1 year ago
We saw many amazing sights! It would be very challenging to plan a trip like this on my own, and I appreciated the opportunity to do this with a wonderful group.
Nancy S.
3 years ago
Loved the itinerary, awesome hiking 😎 cultural aspects, history-Pompeii, Vesuvius- food, it was amazing!!!! Cooking lesson with Patrizia was the icing on the cake!! Being in a native Sicilians home, sharing wine and cheese, helping to prepare the multi-course meal felt SO special to me and I will always remember that experience.
Laurie B.
3 years ago
The itinerary was great! Carrie is a wonderful trip leader and the group was fun, interesting and they were all fun to be with.
Margaret B.
3 years ago
Wow, as I review the days in my head, I am not sure I can name any one thing. From Vesuvius, Pompeii, Limoncello, grotto art, 'swimming' in the Med, Zingaro, fantastic and diverse scenery, traffic jams and switchback roads.... it was all wonderful! Big thanks to Carrie and Federica!!!
Teri S.
3 years ago
Megan S.
3 years ago
Overall, this was an excellent trip for me. Federica was AMAZING. She worked her tail off to make this trip a success -- and issues with the weather in particular made this very challenging. Her attitude and energy helped to set the tone. Carrie was very supportive and provided another calming presence. The hikes were terrific. The cooking class was a great way to end the trip. And the women on the trip were all lovely.
Jannan T.
6 years ago
My highlights were hiking on the amalfi coast and Pompeii. I also really enjoyed the food and the agroturismo we stayed at the end of the trip.
Patti F.
6 years ago
Wonderfully planned, action packed days and diversity of activity
Maria P.
6 years ago
Pompeii, hiking along the Amalfi Coast, Mt. Etna, staying at the family vila in Sicily and our cooking class in Catania
Susan P.
6 years ago
Pompeii was a highlight, as was all time spent in Sicily.
Crystal M.
7 years ago
Our Sicilian/Italian guide Kiara was fantastic. This is not to say that Lisa and Sateva were not Stella as well. The women hikers were marvelous as well. Not a ringer in the bunch. The group/guide community spirit was the best I've ever experienced. (AGC should offer the group a tour together again to someplace equally wonderful and I think they'd take the opportunity.)
Debra R.
7 years ago
Yes, I wanted to introduce my daughter to Italy and this type of adventure traveling with women - this trip was perfect.
Lori C.
7 years ago
Loved the variety of sites and activities, the activity level wa perfect for me. The group of women participants on this trip was truly exceptional. Lisa did a great job, as did Chiara. Enjoyed most the vistas and hiking on Path of the Gods, Mt Vesuvius and Mt Etna. Pompeii was fascinating - exceeded expectations. I was disappointed to miss Taormina, I know there we're good reasons but seeing it one of the main reasons I chose this trip 😥 My experience on Mt Etna would have been much better if the itinerary and packing list had accurately portrayed the activity and likely temperature.
Claudia P.
7 years ago
Mt Etna excursion was the major highlight I love ships and boats so ferry ride to Sicily and short boat hops along Amalfi coast were also higjkughts. Syracusa is a fascinating historical city so that was highlight too
Barbara P.
7 years ago
The hikes were very active and gave me a good work out. Meeting all the women and making friends. Loved always having meals together. gave us some free time to explore.
Dates & Prices
| Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
October 03 to October 12, 2025 |
Available |
$5395.00 |
|
|
April 09 to April 18, 2026 |
Available |
$5595.00 |
|
|
October 02 to October 11, 2026 |
Available |
$5595.00 |
Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
Your breakfasts will be buffets at the hotels where you are staying. Dinners are in restaurants with typically a choice of two courses. On some nights, dinners will be at the restaurant located in your hotel to help accommodate our busy schedule. The first course is typically pasta and the second is fish or meat. Lunches may either be picnics or in local restaurants.
If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian and lactose-free. Gluten-sensitive diets can be a challenge when traveling to Italy. You choices for the first course will be limited. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot guarantee that restaurants are free of cross-contamination. You will want to bring gluten-free snacks and perhaps gluten-free bread as this may not be available in Italy. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars. aIf you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we'll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
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