The Sorrento Peninsula - Embracing La Dolce Vita

This Grade 4 moderate holiday includes full and half day walks at a moderate pace over hilly terrain, however there are some days that are very heavy on sightseeing as well. Half day walking will probably include about 3 hours of walking, with full days having around 5 hours. Expect ascents and descents of up to about 600m over the course of a day.

The terrain all along the Sorrento Peninsula is steep and, whilst many of our path's contour around the hills, inevitably some walking will involve steepish ascents and descents.

Paths are generally good underfoot and the pace of our walks will be gentle. The highest point we might reach on a walk is 1226m. We use local transport to gain most of this height.

Why simply visit a country as a tourist when you can truly experience it? In addition to great walking, on all these holidays, we'll visit the local sites of interest, absorb the natural beauty of our surroundings, and enjoy local customs and history.

These experience-rich itineraries are designed to suit those whose interests have a focus on sightseeing and history on their holiday. You'll see spectacular landscapes, while visiting the classic sites as well as discovering the quirky and lesser known along the trail.

On this holiday, we visit Herculaneum and Pompeii, Vesuvius, the towns of Sorrento and Amalfi. Whilst at Pompeii or Herculaneum we will be joined by a local guide to bring these wonderful sites to life.

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Vico Equense offers great transport links from Naples all the way down to Sorrento at the end of the peninsula for very little cost.

While in the area you may wish to go off program and visit other sites or return for more time in ones you have visited, that is fine, it is your holiday after all:

Vesuvius - Great when paired with Herculaneum but is a full day. Take the ‘Circumvesuviana’ train to Ercolano (€2.80 p/p €2.60 p/p one way).  Take a ‘Vesuvio Express’ shuttle bus from outside Ercolano station (€25 p/p return) to the coach park on Vesuvius.  The fare includes the entrance ticket.  

Herculaneum - Use the same train network to get to Herculaneum (€14 p/p).

Pompeii - Take the train from Vico Equense in the direction of Naples leaving from platform 1. Buy two tickets one for the outward journey and one for the return. The journey to ‘Pompeii Scavi’ ‘Circumvesuviana’ station takes 20 minutes.  Exit the train station and turn right to reach the ‘Porta Marina’ entrance to the site.

Isle of Capri - This is very popular on a free day as the island is famous the world over for its natural beauty allowing for lots of free exploration. During the summer there is a ferry service from Seiano (the marina below the Hotel Mary). The hotel staff will assist with the booking of tickets, and they have a shuttle service down to the local harbour. In 2019 the cost of the return ferry from to Capri €50.00 p/p. The return ferry is at approximately 17.10 and the loudspeaker may announce SEIANO rather than Vico Equense!  

Entrance fees are correct at time of writing.

The currency in Italy is the Euro.

Should you need more cash whilst on the Sorrento Peninsula, there are ATMs and banks in Vico Equense, just a short 10-minute stroll from the hotel. On most days you will find yourself in a big enough town to take more cash out should you need to.  Many vendors now take card payments.

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

To enhance your experience, as well as your tour leader, each holiday will be accompanied in some centres by a well qualified and knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.

Return flights from London to Naples. 

Transfers between Naples Airport and the hotel are by road and take approximately 50 minutes.

During your stay we will use a mix of public and hired transportation. The Italian rail system is busy and an experience. However, you can easily travel to Naples and all the way down to Sorrento from Vico Equense station, bypassing its busy roads.

If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.

If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.

Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.

Please ensure your personal details, including your passport information and date of birth, are accurate and up to date, and that we have all the information needed to arrange your holiday. If you have any dietary allergies or intolerances, please let us know.

You can view and update your details using Manage My Booking on our website or by contacting our Sales & Reservations team on +44 (0)1707 331133. Please check your booking confirmation carefully and notify us of any changes as soon as possible.

For the latest passport requirements and entry guidance for your destination,  please check the GOV.UK Foreign Travel Advice website before you travel.

If you are travelling on a non-British passport, please check entry requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate.

What can you expect to eat?

For breakfast, you'll find a selection of fruits, fruit juices, tea, coffee, yogurt, toast, eggs, ham, cheese, bread, croissants, and jams, as well as a hearty selection of hot items, bacon, eggs, tomatoes and potatoes to name a few. The hotel terrace offers sublime sunrise views of Vico Equense's beauty, setting the tone each morning for a memorable day on the Amalfi Coast.

Since you'll likely be out in the countryside at midday, it’s a good idea to stop by a local bakery or supermarket in the morning to make yourself a packed lunch for the day’s walk. On sightseeing days a local café or bar makes for a light tapas lunch or snack. Your leader will be able to advise where this is possible.

For dinner at the hotel, you’ll enjoy a set menu with a choice of three starters, three main courses, followed by a dessert. The menu changes daily, offering variety throughout the week. A typical dinner might start with pasta and sauce, followed by a meat or fish dish with sides like potatoes or vegetables, and finish with a tasty dessert. On two nights during the week, your leader will take you to local restaurants for a change of scenery and to experience the regional flavours. A welcome glass of wine goes down well whilst soaking up the sunset on your first night.

In Italy, traditional meals may include primo, il secondo, and dolce, depending on the individual restaurant. Primo can be served as an appetiser and usually consists of rich pasta, soup or risotto. The main course is called il secondo and usually includes meat, fish or vegetarian. The dolce refers to the dessert and ends a traditional Italian meal.

Please note that in Italy it is customary to pay for water consumed at the dinner table estimating around €2-3 per 0.75cl bottle.

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

• Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
• Lightweight quick-drying trousers
• Walking T-shirt/shirts
• Walking socks
• Fleece or jumper
• Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
• Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
• Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
• Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
• Day sack liner
• Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
• Basic first aid kit
• Lunchbox
• Walking poles (should you find them useful)
• Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

When you visit attractions such as Pompeii, Herculaneum, or Paestum for example you must have a small bag or entry maybe refused. In the past some officials have deemed that 25ltr bags are too large. Some attractions do have lockers free of charge you can use. It is best to check with your leader before setting off for the day.

Under Italian law, police can stop you at any time to carry out an identity check or your date of entry into the country. Carry photo ID with you at all times. The police will normally ask for your full passport.

Electricity in Italy is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

For the latest health advice and entry requirements for Italy, please visit the GOV.UK travel advice for Italy and NaTHNaC.

For further advice please visit:

• The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) travel health website at www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
• The NHS 'Fit for travel' website at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk
• The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
• Or a local travel health clinic

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses, mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.

It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

In some Italian towns and cities, you may be fined for dropping litter and in some towns or cities it’s an offence to sit on monument steps or to eat and drink in the immediate vicinity of main churches, historic monuments and public buildings. It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains.

In May 2019, the Municipality of Capri introduced a law forbidding the use of any disposable plastic objects such as bags, cutlery, plates, cups, food packaging, trays, straws on the island of Capri. Violations can incur a fine of up to 500 euros.

Illegal traders operate on the streets of all major Italian cities, particularly tourist cities like Florence, Venice and Rome. Don’t buy from illegal street traders. You could be stopped by the local police and fined.

It is illegal to remove sand, shells or pebbles from coastal areas in Italy. Doing so may result in heavy fines. It’s also forbidden to collect various species of flowers, plants and herbs from mountain and wooded areas. For more information, check with the regional authorities of the area you’re visiting.