Cetara adventures

Cetara: nature to breathe, walk… and fall in love with

Cetara is sea, fishing, and tradition, yes, but those who truly know it understand that its trails are scented with resin, lemons, and silence.
Just a few steps away from the village are unexpected natural paths, where every step offers a view and every climb tells a story.

To help you choose the one that’s right for you, and your legs, we’ve selected three nature-filled itineraries, each with a different level of difficulty.
Whether you're up for a scenic stroll, a walk through fragrant lemon groves, or a full-on trekking adventure in Cetara, you’ll find the trail that fits.

From Cetara to Punta Fuenti Trail

Easy Trail
Duration about 1 hour
Suitable for everyone

Looking for a light walk without giving up the views and wonder? This trail is perfect for exploring the promontory of Cetara.

The walk begins from Via Salvo d’Acquisto, near the small square beside the cemetery. From there, a peaceful path runs parallel to the coastal road toward Vietri sul Mare, immersed in greenery: lemon groves, vineyards, olive trees… it feels like stepping into a secret garden. The trail is simple and relaxing, winding through the area known as “Pietrachiatta”, and ends with a breathtaking view of Punta Fuenti, a small hamlet of Cetara, and the shimmering blue line of the sea. At the end, the path rejoins the main coastal road (SS 163). Also ideal for a mini family hike (not for to small babies), perhaps with a seaside snack break.

Extra Tip:

Bring a small bottle of fresh lemon juice (easy to find in town)… sipping it here, under the shade of a carob tree, tastes like sunshine.

From Cetara through Viesco Plateau to Erchie Trail

Moderate Trail
Duration is about 5 hours

A panoramic and cultural trek, for those who love walking through nature and history.

If you're looking for an immersive experience, one that leads you step by step through landscapes and layers of the past. this trail is for you. It starts in the upper part of Cetara, along Via Turillo, where a staircase leads you upward… and onward. The climb offers ever-changing scenery: you leave the town behind and soon find yourself among lemon terraces, shaded stone walls, and pergolas, before entering a dense forest that smells of pine, moss, and fresh mountain air.

Then the Viesco Plateau opens up: lush Mediterranean scrub surrounds you, and the ruins scattered along the way whisper tales of ancient labor and life, remnants of a time when Cetara lived not only from the sea, but also from the land. The trail continues toward the San Nicola Valley, where you’ll cross a small stream. From there begins the descent toward Erchie.

And here's the surprise: along the final stretch, you’ll stumble upon the ruins of the ancient convent of San Nicola Carbonario, a solemn, timeless place, and the remains of an old aqueduct, once used to channel rainwater to the valley below. Arriving in Erchie feels like a reward: small, quiet, and charming, the beach here is the perfect spot to take off your shoes, cool off, and, why not, enjoy a snack with your feet in the sand.

Practical advice:

The trail is long but manageable: great for motivated beginner hikers.

Bring water, a snack, and a camera, the way light filters through the trees deserves a photo.

To return to Cetara, you can walk along the coast (about 30–40 minutes) or arrange a local transfer.

From Cetara through Avvocata to Viesco Plateau Trail

Expert Trail
Duration is about 6 hours
A mountain trail, for those who seek adventure and breathtakin

This is a trail you won’t forget. For its wild beauty, for the rewarding effort… and for that feeling, once at the top, of having taken a journey not just through nature, but within yourself.

The hike begins in Cetara, following the same path that leads to the Viesco Plateau. But once you reach the old chapel, you turn right: from there, the trail narrows and follows the ridge overlooking Capo d’Orso. After a good hour of walking through Mediterranean brush, you'll reach the highlight of the trek: the Sanctuary of the Avvocata, a centuries-old pilgrimage site, embraced by a view that truly takes your breath away. From Punta Licosa to Capri, the gulf stretches out like a painted canvas.

Below the sanctuary, two caves open in the rock as if from a legend: the Cave of the Apparitions, holding a small altar carved into the stone, and the evocative Cave of the Soppressate, with stalactites shaped so peculiarly they give the cave its colorful name.

The return path is just as fascinating: following the ridge above Capo d’Orso, crossing the San Nicola Valley, and passing through the peaceful, open Viesco Plateau. A long stone staircase gently brings you back to Cetara, legs tired, heart full.

Useful tips:

Bring plenty of water, a packed lunch, and a sun hat.

Hiking boots are a must.

This trail is not suitable for small children, but perfect for those seeking a deep spiritual and scenic experience.

Here, nature is not just a backdrop; it's part of the experience.

It’s the star of the show, your travel companion, a pure source of energy.
Whether you have an hour or a whole day, there’s a trail waiting for you.
Try one of these paths and discover Cetara through the eyes of those who walk it.