Monti Lattari: panoramic hiking on the backbone of the Sorrento Peninsula
The Monti Lattari are the backbone of the Sorrento Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast — a mountain range roughly 50 kilometres long that divides the Gulf of Naples from the Gulf of Salerno and offers some of the most extraordinary landscapes in Italy. The name is thought to derive from the abundance of pastures and dairy production in Roman times. Today the Monti Lattari are a paradise for hikers: the Alta Via dei Monti Lattari is a long-distance trail that traverses the entire range from Punta Campanella (the tip of the peninsula) towards Nocera, with constant views over both gulfs. The slopes are blanketed in dense forests of chestnuts, oaks and holm oaks, interspersed with terraced lemon groves and vineyards. The medieval villages perched on the ridges — Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi, Montepertuso, Nocelle — are unmissable stopping points. Numerous side trails descend towards the Amalfi Coast or the Sorrentine Peninsula, making loop hikes and point-to-point traverses possible. O'Vesuvio B&B in Torre del Greco is the ideal base for exploring this mountain system, with access to the main trailheads just 45 minutes away.
How to Get There
From Torre del Greco by car towards Meta di Sorrento or Agerola (approximately 45 minutes) to access the Alta Via trails. For Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi: SS18 and SS145. For Agerola (northern access): SS366. IGM maps or apps such as Komoot are essential for navigation.
Highlights
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Alta Via dei Monti Lattari: long-distance trail connecting Punta Campanella to Nocera
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Unique dual-gulf panoramas: Naples and Salerno visible simultaneously from the ridgeline
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Chestnut and oak forests interspersed with terraced lemon groves and vineyards
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Medieval ridge villages: Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi, Montepertuso, Nocelle
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Connections with the Path of the Gods and numerous routes down to the Amalfi Coast
💡 Practical Tip
The full Alta Via takes multiple stages over 1-3 days. For a single-day hike, the Sant'Agata-Torca section with a descent to Nerano is one of the most scenic and accessible stretches.
Stay at O'Vesuvio B&B
Just 20 minutes from the main attractions of the Bay of Naples. Book directly and save on commissions.