Nocelle, a Mountain Village of Positano with the Views That are Out of This World

Nocelle, a tiny, still relatively isolated mountain village, sits around 443 meters above Positano. It is the highest and oldest village of Positano. Nocelle is not only known for the mountain Lattari but also the Path of the Gods. The scenic Path of the Gods (a trail between Bomerano and Nocelle) starts and ends there.

Besides, the small mountain village provides stunning vistas of the coastline. As our family always likes to explore the hidden corners without all the touristic hustle and bustle, Nocelle became the must-see place during our Amalfi Coast trip.

Driving up to Nocelle from Positano

The road to Nocelle is narrow with sharp curves. In several places, due to the repair work, the driving turned out to be a nightmare. From Positano, followed by Via Monsignor Vito Talamo, and passed another mountain village Montepertuso, we drove further up and arrived at the small parking lot of Nocelle. The parking lot wasn’t full.

Start the Nocelle round walk

Start at the parking area

At the parking lot, we tried to orient ourselves. The big map shows several hiking trails (including the Path of the Gods) around the Nocelle. And, two big information boards display the hotel information. A sign “Croce di Nocelle” on the wall shows the way to the village centre. After a few stone steps up the hill, we turned left and continued to follow the Via Cercola.

Passing the Bus stop

Soon we reached a small flat area where an information board shows the bus stop and the directions to several hotels. It also indicates the direction of the famous hiking trail Path of the Gods. That was the first place to observe panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast area. The morning mist that obscured the views of the sea was moving away. The white clouds drifted in from the Lattari mountain area. And, the winding Amalfi Coast came into sight. Beneath the mountain, we could see Positano.

Stony ways to all directions

Many rustic stone ways lead to all directions. We just followed the same road and walked towards the centre and coast direction. In some areas, farmers grew vines on terraces carved into the hillside. Others grew colourful wildflowers and long grass. This part of the village has only a few houses around. It was so peaceful and silent.

We took our time to wander around the stone ways and immerse ourselves in the heavenly beauty of this remote mountain village. The street Via Cercola goes on and ends in the village centre, where we saw the restaurant Rifugio Dei Mele (Via Cercole 1, Nocelle Positano 84017). Being thirsty and tired, we rushed in for a break.

The restaurant Rifugio Dei Mele with spectacular views

The restaurant looked new and has a modern ambient. The drinks weren’t so expensive, but the food does. It wasn’t dinner time yet, so we just ordered a few drinks. Surprisingly, the restaurant has spectacular views over the Amalfi Coast.

Large parasols partially covered the terrace outside. Some people, dress up elegantly, were still having their late lunch. The terrace towards the coastal side features white cast-iron railings with simple architectural details.

I leaned against the white railings. Before me, it was the spectacular coastal view of the endless ocean. The sky was already clear, and I took full advantage of the healthy ocean air. The panoramic terrace has such a fabulous ocean view.

The white open-air bar is at the edge of the terrace. Its position gave us the impression that it merged into the ocean and sky with no boundary. Could I call it an infinity bar?

Complete the round walk

The village centre

The restaurant is in the village centre. Occasionally, we saw several locals walked by. More restaurants and bars are nearby. Several hotels are also in this area, such as Casa Cuccaro and Villa La Quercia. The most attractive villa we have discovered is a Villa Degli Dei Luxury House, which has 3 floors, 5 rooms, 1 kitchen, an infinity swimming pool, and a dominant landscape!

A lonely mini-market

It is not difficult to find those hotels because an information board clearly indicates their directions. Followed the Via Capella and after a leisurely stroll through the main part of the town, we saw a lonely mini market. It is so small like someone’s garden house and only sells some basic daily stuff. Near the mini market, there is a sign showing the path to the village Montepertuso. But we decided to be back in the parking lot instead.

End of the round walk

The elevated mountain village has unbelievable scenery. It is a world apart from touristy Positano, but a silent place where we hope it always keeps it that way. Being part of Positano, the village is one of our absolute highlights during our time on the Amalfi Coast. Nocelle commands some of the most spectacular views on the entire coast.

Travel tips

Where to stay

Nocelle features some Bed & Breakfast accommodations. Most hotels in Nocelle have gorgeous views over the Amalfi Coast. Some views there are out of the world!

• The most attractive villa we have discovered is a Villa Degli Dei Luxury House, which has 3 floors, 5 rooms, 1 kitchen, an infinity swimming pool, and a dominant landscape!
• Maison Rosa is an apartment featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, pool view and a balcony. Restaurants nearby have equally magic views.

How to get there

Mobility Amalfi Coast Bus departs for Nocelle from the center of Positano every hour. Due to the traffic and other situations, the bus schedule doesn’t promise you the exact time, when the bus will arrive. The time table just tells you that a bus will arrive around that time.

Or, follow a massive 1,500-step staircase that starts from the village Arienzo (around one kilometer away from Positano) and ascend up to Nocelle.

Alternatively, you can hike from Bomerano (Agerola) to Nocelle  by joining a group tour in Ravello.