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Valle delle Ferriere, Campania Travel Guide

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Discover a hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast: Hike through lush forests, explore historic ruins, and encounter rare plant species in Valle delle Ferriere.

Hike through the Valle delle Ferriere, a protected nature reserve near Scala, Italy, and step back in time. This lush valley boasts rare plant species, waterfalls, and the ruins of medieval paper mills and ironworks, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

A brief summary to Valle delle Ferriere

  • Sunday 10 am-2 pm
Eve
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Valle delle Ferriere.

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the trails can be uneven and involve some stair climbing.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months, though you can refill your water bottle at the fountains along the way.
  • Consider visiting the Paper Mill Museum in Amalfi before your hike to learn about the valley's history of paper production.
  • Check the opening times and entrance fee for the Riserva Naturale Orientata if you wish to visit the heart of the valley.
  • Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Consider visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for a more peaceful experience.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza Duomo in Amalfi, walk along Via Capuano, following signs for Valle delle Ferriere. Continue past the Paper Mill Museum. Ascend the staircase on the right for approximately 300 meters, then take the left staircase, following the CAI 325 trail. The hike to the Riserva Naturale Orientata takes approximately 1.5-2 hours. Note that the route consists mostly of stairways.

  • Public Transport

    From Amalfi, take a SITA bus towards Scala/Ravello and disembark at Pontone. From Piazza San Giovanni in Pontone, follow the path behind the fountain, keeping the steep stairs to your right. Follow the mule track, which will lead you into the valley. The hike to the Riserva Naturale Orientata takes approximately 1.5-2 hours. SITA bus tickets cost around €1-3.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available in Amalfi near the start of the trail in blue-striped parking lots for approximately €2.50/hour, but spots are limited. In Pontone, white-striped parking is available before entering the village. Blue-striped parking within the village costs €1.50/hour.

Discover more about Valle delle Ferriere

The Valle delle Ferriere, nestled in the Lattari Mountains near Scala, is a captivating nature reserve offering a unique journey through both natural beauty and local history. The valley's name derives from the ironworks that once thrived here, supplying iron to the ancient Maritime Republic of Amalfi.The valley's unique microclimate, shielded from cold northern winds yet open to warm, humid southern currents, fosters a rich biodiversity. Abundant rainfall sustains a vibrant ecosystem, home to rare plant species dating back to the Tertiary period, including the giant fern Woodwardia radicans, a living fossil. Keep an eye out for the spectacled salamander, another symbol of this unique environment.As you hike along the Rio Canneto, you'll encounter the remnants of Amalfi's pre-industrial past. The valley was once a hub of paper production, with water-powered mills producing the renowned Amalfi paper. Explore the ruins of these mills, now embraced by nature, and imagine the valley's bustling past.The main hiking trail from Pontone to Amalfi is considered easy to moderate, taking around 3-4 hours. For a more immersive experience, visit the heart of the valley, the Riserva Naturale Orientata, which safeguards the most interesting species.
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