Trekking Monte Cerreto: between Vesuvius and Amalfi Coast

There is a precise moment during the ascent of Monte Cerreto where you almost feel your balance waver. It’s not just because of the steepness (which definitely makes itself felt!), but because a simple 180-degree turn of your head completely changes the world around you.

On one side, you have Mount Vesuvius, a giant dominating the Sarno plain and the Vesuvian towns, with the island of Ischia appearing on the horizon like a mirage. Turn around, and you are thrust into the deep green of the Lattari Mountains, with the hamlets of Tramonti (a unique "scattered" town of the Amalfi Coast) looking like a nativity scene nestled in the valleys. Yesterday, March 29th, I was right there, suspended between the two great gulfs of Campania.

Hard work rewarded (even by the snow!)

We started from Valico di Chiunzi. The first section flows smoothly, almost tricking you into thinking it’s just a scenic stroll. But once you pass Monte Cravalcito, the mountain starts asking for payment. The climb toward the summit becomes "mean" and rugged—the kind of trail that forces you to watch exactly where you put your feet with every single step.

At the summit, a surprise awaited us. Despite being late March, there was still snow in the shaded areas. Reaching the summit cross and finding the small mountain hut was a true relief. And let me tell you: having a fireplace available at 1,300 meters makes all the difference. We met other hikers who had already lit a fire; we warmed up while exchanging stories and impressions, changed out of our sweat-soaked clothes, and then ate outdoors. Looking down at the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno stretched out like blue carpets beneath our feet gives you a sensation of absolute command over the geography of our region.

The Ascent

Start of the trek from Valico di Chiunzi — The journey begins.

Panoramic view of the Sarno valley and Mount Vesuvius — View of Mount Vesuvius and the Sarno plain.

The trail enters the chestnut groves — Following the trail.

View of Tramonti on the Amalfi Coast — View over the town of Tramonti.

The trail starts to get more difficult — The path begins to get more challenging.

Passing under the rocks — The trail passes beneath the rocky spur.

Shepherd's shelter — Large table for a break and a quick snack.

The path covered — Looking back to see how far we've come.

The trail becomes difficult — One of the most complicated spots on the route.

Climbing over rocks — Less difficult than it looks, but proceed with caution.

A final effort for the Cerreto summit — Pressing on toward the summit of Monte Cerreto.

Snow on the Cerreto summit — Snow still remains near the peak.

The Summit

View of the Amalfi Coast from the summit of Monte Cerreto — View of the Lattari Mountains (Amalfi Coast) with Ravello in the distance.

The Lattari Mountains — Another view over the Lattari Mountains.

View of Castellammare — View overlooking Castellammare.

The Descent

Path leading towards Sambuco di Ravello — Taking the path down. We are not turning back, but heading toward Sambuco di Ravello.

View of the coast and Ravello in the distance — View of the Amalfi Coast with Ravello in the distance.

Walking through the chestnut trees — Walking among the chestnut trees.

Continuing through the chestnut groves — Continuing the descent.

My honest advice: Which way should you climb?

I want to be honest with those of you reading who aren't exactly "mountain goats."
The route I took from Valico di Chiunzi is spectacular but highly technical. If you aren't used to moving on narrow, steep, and somewhat "unrefined" trails, stay away from that side.

Do you want to enjoy the summit without the technical stress? Start from Sambuco di Ravello (Monte Brusara area). This is the path we used for the descent.

Is it exhausting? Yes, the 700-meter elevation gain is real, and your legs will feel every meter of it.

Is it dangerous? Not particularly; it is a much simpler trail, mostly wide and manageable.

If you have the lungs and the legs but aren't an expert at scrambling over rocks, climb up and down from Sambuco. The physical effort will be the same, but your mind will be much lighter. And the final prize,the close-up view of Ravello and Scala appearing suddenly during the descent, is something that will stay in your heart.

My experience in a nutshell:

The Highlight: The panoramic shift between Vesuvius and the Amalfi Coast; plus, the view of the Lattari Mountains is reason enough to climb Cerreto.

The Top Moment: Arriving at the summit and taking photos.

The Difficulty: If you aren't an expert, avoid the ridge from Chiunzi and head for Sambuco.