Current as of: December 21, 2024 - 00:21
Cycle Cilento & the Amalfi Coast Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group
- Destination: Italy
- Programmes: Cycling
-
Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: MWO
- Carbon Footprint: 14kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Cycle from unspoiled Cilento to the Amalfi Coast
Cycling is a great way to explore the stunning natural and cultural treasures of Campania. This tour takes us through the best routes and contrasts of the region, from the relatively unknown and unspoiled Cilento to the lively Amalfi Coast. The Cilento National Park is largely undisturbed by modern life and as we cycle through quaint fishing villages, the traditions of the area are still evident. We also visit the Greco-Roman city of Paestum, with its three major doric temples, before heading to the lovely town of Minori on the Amalfi Coast. Here, we cycle on some of the most scenic routes in the world, while visiting beautiful towns including Positano and, of course, Amalfi itself. All the cycling will help to build our appetite for the fine food for which the area is renowned.
At a Glance
- Six nights three- and four-star hotels and one night agriturismo
- Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (6 hotel, 1 agriturismo/farmhouse)
- Five days cycling with partial vehicle support (limited seats)
- Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
- Mainly undulating with a few steady climbs; 100 percent paved roads
-
E-bikes available for an additional cost
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Discover the two faces of Campania by bike: peaceful Cilento and the lively Amalfi Coast
- Explore Cilento National Park, riding along South Italy’s best-preserved coastline
- Hop back 2,500 years with a stay near the ancient Greek city of Paestum
- Cycle to Minori past sheer cliffs and lemon terraces: one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads
- Visit classic Amalfi Coast towns and villages, including Positano and Amalfi itself
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is classified Road and Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Riding is all on paved roads (some sections may be pot-holed). The route is undulating with a few steady hills and some steeper, more challenging uphill sections of 2.5mi-4.3mi (4km-7km). We cycle mainly on quiet roads, although they get much busier around Amalfi and Positano. A moderately good level of fitness and some training are required prior to the trip.
Group
The group will generally be between five and 16 people. There will be a local cycling leader and an assistant leader driving the support vehicle.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 5
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Palinuro
- End City: Minori
Land Only Itinerary
Fly to Naples and transfer in Palinuro, on the southern coast of Cilento National Park
The trip starts at our hotel in Palinuro, a lively picturesque village on the southern coast of Cilento (approx. 3 hours from Naples) named after the mythical Palinuros, Aeneas’ helmsman, who is supposedly buried here. Capo Palinuro is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and impressive underwater caves.
Start in Palinuro, on the southern coast of Cilento National Park
Welcome to Palinuro, a lively and picturesque village on the southern coast of Cilento (approximately three hours’ drive from Naples). Capo Palinuro is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and impressive underwater caves. We gather at the hotel today for our first meeting; a great chance to get to know the group and tour leader.
Accommodation: Hotel Santa Caterina (or similar)
Cycle along the most unspoilt stretch of coastline in southern Italy, then inland to the Mingardo Canyon and abandoned village of San Severino
We start early in the morning with a scenic circular ride along the southern coast of Cilento National Park, the most unspoilt stretch of coastline in southern Italy, offering spectacular views of the Gulf of Policastro. We arrive in the lovely coastal town of Marina di Camerota for a short break and then climb inland to the village of San Giovanni a Piro. We cycle around the impressive Mount Bulgheria and to the Mingardo Canyon before making our way back to Palinuro.
Ride to Capo Palinuro then to the medieval village of Pisciotta; descend to the coast and Casalvelino
From Marina di Camerota, we follow the beautiful coastline to the peninsula of Capo Palinuro to the medieval village of Pisciotta, known for producing delicious olive oil, which we will taste. From here we climb gently to the town of Ascea. En route back to the coast, we cycle past the ancient Greek settlement of Velia, which has an impressive arch from the fourth century BCE, before heading to the plain of Casalvelino, where we stay in a lovely agriturismo.
Undulating ride through coastal villages; stop for lunch and optional swim; continue to Paestum with its ancient Greek ruins
Today we enjoy one of the finest rides in Italy as we leave the Casalvelino plain behind and cycle through picturesque coastal villages to Acciaroli, a favourite of Ernest Hemingway. We stop for lunch in Santa Maria di Castellabate, where there is the opportunity for a swim in the sea. In the afternoon we enjoy the final section of our route to Agropoli, a charming town overlooking the sea, and ride to our hotel, just a stone’s throw from the ancient Greek temples of Paestum.
Train to Salerno; scenic ride to Minori, our base for the next three nights
This morning we have time to visit the well-preserved temples and amphitheatre of Paestum. We will also taste the celebrated buffalo mozzarella at lunch, before taking a train to Salerno, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. In the afternoon, we ride to Minori, one the most scenic coastal roads in the world. Along the way we stop in the fishing village of Cetara, known for delicious tuna and anchovies. We then continue to Capo d’Orso, offering breathtaking views over the Amalfi Coast and Capri. From here it’s mainly downhill as we cycle past dramatic cliffs and lemon terraces to the coastal villages of Maiori and finally Minori, our base for the last three nights.
Cycle along the Strada Amalfitana to Amalfi, Praiano and Positano; climb inland to the Colli di San Pietro for great views over the Bay of Naples; return to Minori via Amalfi
This morning we ride along the scenic coastal road to Amalfi, where we have time for a short stroll. The town has been popular with the British since Edwardian times, when the upper classes viewed the town as a pleasant place to spend their winters. The large cathedral dominates the town with its bright coloured tiles so typical of the region. We then continue to Furore, Praiano and on to Positano, a near-vertical town of colourful buildings. The route offers fantastic views of the whole peninsula, including the island of Capri. We then make a beautiful climb to the Colli di San Pietro, on the ridge between the Bay of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno. Time permitting, your leader may decide to extend this ride to Sorrento. There are several options for lunch, before we cycle back to Positano, Amalfi and finally Minori in time for the sunset.
Free day to relax on the beach at Minori, visit Ravello and Amalfi, take a boat trip to Capri or visit Pompeii and Vesuvius.
A day off the bike to relax in Minori. Alternatively, you could take a guided walk to glorious Ravello, enjoy a boat trip to the island of Capri or visit the Unesco World Heritage sites of Pompeii and Vesuvius.
Transfer to Naples; fly to London.
The trip finishes in Minori after breakfast.
End Minori
You’ve cycled the Amalfi Coast, tasted delicious regional cuisine and clocked an impressive number of miles on the saddle. This morning, however, there’s time for a final breakfast of the holiday before beginning your return journey home.
Accommodation
Hotels and agriturismo
Stay in three- and four-star hotels and spend one night in an agriturismo – a beautifully converted farmhouse. All have either a swimming pool or beach nearby, which will be greatly appreciated in summer.
Palinuro: Hotel Santa Caterina or Hotel La Conchiglia (nights 1-2)
Our first two nights are spent in either Santa Caterina (Above) or La Conchiglia. The former is a family-owned hotel that’s home to the oldest ice cream shop in Palinuro. There’s also a restaurant serving regional dishes with fresh produce. The latter has a Mediterranean restaurant with a terrace offering sea and cliff views. Head there for drinks from the lounge bar – sunset is the ideal time to enjoy a national cocktail while gazing over Capo Palinuro.
Casal Velino: Agriturismo Zio Cristoforo (night 3)
Within Cilento National Park, this farmstay is a peaceful retreat in the Italian countryside. Take a dip in the palm-shaded swimming pool, which is built from local stone, or pull up a lounger to soak in the sun. In the evening, head to the restaurant for typical local produce and perhaps try the red or white wine made on site.
Paestum: Hotel Villa Rita (night 4)
The family-run Villa Rita occupies a converted farm, with the manor house, stables and barns all enjoying a new life in hospitality. Now the property has pine-scented gardens with a sun lounger-lined pool. There’s also a traditional bistro where dishes are created with local ingredients from local producers.
Minori: Hotel Santa Lucia (nights 5-7)
The Sammarco family has owned this 25-room, Mediterranean-style hotel for more than 50 years. It has an ideal location, just moments from a sandy beach, plus a seasonal solarium with a bar. Elsewhere, there’s the Garum restaurant, which serves traditional dishes from the Amalfi Coast.
Single supplement from £ 355
Accommodation - Pre Trip
Take the opportunity to ease into the trip, adjusting to the time zone and atmosphere at a more leisurely pace before the official tour begins. The following options are usually available on this trip:
- Comfort Rome City Extension at three-star Hotel Nord Nuova Roma (or similar) – includes two nights and a small group guided tour
- Deluxe Rome City Extension at four-star Hotel Diana Roof Garden (or similar) – includes two nights and a small group guided tour
Speak to your sales representative for a tailor-made quote and to confirm availability of your chosen package.
Accommodation - Post Trip
Take the opportunity to ease into the trip, adjusting to the time zone and atmosphere at a more leisurely pace before the official tour begins. The following options are usually available on this trip:
- Comfort Rome City Extension at three-star Hotel Nord Nuova Roma (or similar) – includes two nights and a small group guided tour
- Deluxe Rome City Extension at four-star Hotel Diana Roof Garden (or similar) – includes two nights and a small group guided tour
Speak to your sales representative for a tailor-made quote and to confirm availability of your chosen package.
Food & Drink
All breakfasts and one dinner included.
Breakfast is normally continental style with a choice of cereal, bread, pastries, yoghurt, orange juice and milk with an array of teas/coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light meal, such as a sandwich or a mix of delicious appetisers, in small traditional cafes along the route. The evening meals will be taken in a variety of local restaurants or at the hotels, where the standard is excellent. Most of the regional specialities in this area are prepared with delicious fresh produce such as tomatoes, olives, peppers and cheese. The Amalfi Coast also has some of the finest fish in the world; scialatielli ai frutti di mare (fresh ribbon-shaped pasta with seafood) is one of the staple dishes worth trying. The a la carte menus in most restaurants recommended by your local leader will give you an opportunity to sample a great range of local specialities.
Transport
Transfers to and from the airport will be by private vehicle (normally minibus). On Day 5 we take a train from Paestum to Salerno. While cycling, the vehicle will carry your baggage and be on hand to assist. A guide cycles with the group.
Weather & Seasonality
Southern Italy is hot and dry in summer, with cooler but slightly damper spring and autumn periods; expect mild, damp winters at coastal levels. Rainfall is more common in the winter months with an average of one day in three affected. Unseasonable cold spells are possible at any time of year, during which time you will need warm clothes. It is very important to be equipped for cooler weather in early- and late-season departures.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time on the first day of this trip. The tour leader will provide a welcome briefing in the morning of Day 2.
Airport: Naples International Airport (NAP)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is in Palinuro, approximately a 2hr 30min drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but we recommend joining the group transfer where possible. However, you can take a bus to Naples train station from the airport and then get the train to Pisciotta-Palinuro. The journey takes about two hours and should cost around €15. Once you arrive at Pisciotta-Palinuro, you can get a taxi to the hotel. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport that’s scheduled to align with a flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Palinuro
Location end: Minori
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Spare inner tube (unless hiring a bike)
- Waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen and lip salve
- Sunglasses/eye protection
- Warm jacket for evenings
- Energy snacks
Optional Equipment
- Swimming costume
Equipment provided
- Mudguards
- Rear pannier
- Pumps
- Puncture kit and tools
- Spare inner tubes
Equipment Hire
Included standard bike
The standard bikes for this trip are Giant Roam 2 Disc.
We will take your height at the time of booking to reserve equipment. If you have a preferred bike size, please request when booking.
E-bike upgrade
Electric bikes are available on this trip; prices from £115/US$160/210 Canadian dollars. Speak to your sales representative for more information.
Bringing your own bike
If you’d prefer to bring your own bike, please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the trip. However, you will be responsible for any extra baggage charges; assembling and disassembling your bike; and bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. You should also ensure you have adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or theft.
Accessories and clothing
Bringing equipment from home
You’re welcome to bring your own equipment, such as SPD pedals or clipless pedals, your own saddle (excluding the seat post), or gel saddle cover for the hire bikes. Your leader will help you fit these when bikes are distributed.
Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for everyone on a guided Exodus cycling trip. You must bring your own as, following best safety practice, they are not available for hire.
Cycling clothing
For all cycling trips we recommend:
- Padded cycling shorts: For destinations with more modest cultures, we also recommend loose ‘over-shorts’ for riding or rest stops
- Eyewear: Either sunglasses or eye protection with clear lenses to protect the eyes while riding
- Cycling gloves: Especially for riding off-road or on rugged surfaces
- Cycling shoes: Cycling is more efficient with stiff-soled shoes. We don’t recommend open-toed shoes or sandals
- Small close-fitting rucksack or bum bag (fanny pack): To keep spare clothing or essential items to hand during the ride
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Italy
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/italy
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Italy.html
Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.
Vaccinations and Health
Italy
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Italy's time zone: Europe/Rome (UTC +01:00)
Electricity
Italy's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), F (two round pins), and L (three round pins in a row) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Italy's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
Cash points are available in Naples and all major towns visited. Major credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, although cash is usually easier.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Budget between €10 and €15 for lunches, depending on whether you choose a set menu in a cafe or restaurant. Approximately €20-€30 should be enough for an evening meal including drinks.
Optional trips
- Full-day trip to Vesuvio and Pompeii: Private transfer cost €280-€500 per vehicle depending on group size.
- Half-day trip to Vesuvio or Pompeii: Private transfer cost €180-€380 per vehicle depending on group size.
- Entrance ticket to Pompeii: €15 per person
- Entrance ticket to Vesuvio: €10 per person
- Optional two-hour guided tour in Pompeii €100/150
Local taxes: Many Italian cities have introduced a tourist tax for non-residents. The local administration oversees the tax, which will be collected by the accommodation provider at check-in or check-out. This fee varies depending on the hotel category, the season and number of days of stay. It is usually between €0.50 and €1.50 per person per night. For this trip, please allow between €5 and €10, depending on the season, for the week.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus, however most of our clients wish to give a tip to their guides and in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This, of course, is in no way compulsory and depends on the service received. If you feel you would like to leave a tip, as a guide we would suggest approximately €20 for the leader and €10-€15 shared between other staff, such as private bus drivers, where appropriate.
Sustainability and Impact
At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.
As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.
-
Learn more about our Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan, including our commitment to rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller
-
Read about the work of the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation.
-
Find out how you can travel more sustainably here.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by Exodus should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by Exodus based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.