Ravello lacks the beaches enjoyed by many of the other villages along this coast, but in compensation, it offers great opportunities for walks and serious hikes. The walks we suggest below are quite easy, allowing you to return by bus or taxi, but if you are more ambitious, you might undertake a complete loop of the two hikes below.
The Monastero di San Nicola makes for a pleasant and easy hike, since it only has a few small stretches of hillside but is very scenic. From the center of Ravello, take the road for Chiunzi for 1km (1/2 mile) toward the hamlet of Sambuco, 320m (1,050 ft.) above sea level (you can also get to this point by car). Descending from here a few steps to your right, you can reach the trail that climbs to the Monastery of Saint Nicholas at an altitude of 486m (1,594 ft.). Plan on about 2 hours for the 9km (5 3/4-mile) hike. The monastery is currently under restoration, but you can still enjoy the great views. From the monastery, it is then possible to descend to Minori -- or to Maiori if you prefer -- in about a half-hour. Hiking the reverse route (starting from Minori or Maiori) is more demanding, but you can do it by taking the small road that connects Maiori with Minori and passes behind the Collegiata to reach the path that climbs gently toward the monastery. The trail becomes progressively steeper and more scenic until you reach the top. Figure on spending about 1 hour for the ascent from Maiori or Minori to the monastery.
Another scenic hike in the area is the one to Minori. From the center of Ravello, take another footpath -- a charming mix of steps and hidden alleys -- which descends all the way to Minori and the sea. Start from the alley to the left of Villa Rufolo, marked by a small fountain, at an altitude of 350m (1,148 ft.), and begin the descent. You will pass by the small 13th-century Annunziata church and by San Pietro church. You will then reach the hamlet of Torello, with its church of the Addolorata and graceful bell tower in Arab-Sicilian style. The picturesque walk will continue among olive trees all the way down to the sea and the village of Minori. The whole hike should take you only a half-hour; however, allow at least double that for the ascent.
