Barwon Health: Amalfi Challenge 2026

Join us on a spectacular walk through Pompeii, Herculaneum, Mt Vesuvius, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast, raising vital funds for medical equipment, compassionate care, and improved health services in regional Victoria

Challenge Highlights

  • Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Amalfi coast
  • Mt Vesuvius and the fascinating Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum
  • History, culture, a volcano and the Italian dolce vita – all in one week
  • Enjoy delicious culinary specialties of the region
  • Travel with a Barwon Health representative

Overview

Explore one of the most captivating regions of Italy in support of the Barwon Health Foundation and vital healthcare services in our community.

This inspiring journey blends natural beauty, history, and purpose, from the spectacular Amalfi Coast and the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, to the vibrant heart of Naples and the enchanting island of Capri. Based in the charming town of Sorrento, you’ll discover the region on foot, walking ancient paths that wind through lemon groves, dramatic coastlines, and picturesque villages.

A private transfer takes you high above the sea to Agerola, your base for scenic walks to Positano, the lush Ferriere Valley, and the clifftop village of Ravello. You’ll even have the chance to ascend the legendary Mt Vesuvius for panoramic views over the Bay of Naples.

Between walks, you’ll enjoy authentic Italian hospitality, regional cuisine, and time to relax and connect with fellow fundraisers, all united in support of Barwon Health’s mission to deliver exceptional care.

This is an opportunity to challenge yourself, make a difference, and experience the magic of Italy.

Challenge Grade

GRADE 3 - The walking is graded moderate with 2 to 5 hours walking each day over hilly to steep terrain. There are numerous steps in any hike on the Amalfi coast and your preparation should include climbing and descending steps. A reasonable level of fitness is required. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, stair walking and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure.

Itinerary

Arrival in Naples. On arrival at Naples Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred by minibus to your hotel in Sorrento. Please note: For guests not arriving on the group flight, the transfer will be at your own expense. After checking in, the rest of the day and evening are yours to relax and explore this charming coastal town. Take a stroll through Piazza Tasso, lined with lively cafés, or wander the historic centre — a maze of narrow alleys filled with traditional marquetry workshops, artisan stores, and gourmet delights like limoncello, the region’s famous lemon aperitivo. Don’t miss the peaceful 14th-century Church of San Francesco and its beautifully cloistered courtyard. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner and overnight stay in Sorrento.

Meals:  D

Boat trip to Capri (30 mins.). Our island walk will wind us through the vibrant streets, teeming with boutiques and cafes, via grand houses and kitchen gardens to the coast. Along a picturesque path past villas and flower gardens, we visit the Natural Arch, the Matromania grotto and the Terrace of Tragara. There is time to enjoy swimming in the sea and to discover the romantic alleys of Capri village. In the afternoon, take the hydrofoil back to Sorrento. Dinner is not included tonight, but you’ll have a wide selection of restaurants and pizzerias to choose from. Your guide will be happy to give you recommendations so you can enjoy dinner either with the group or on your own. Overnight stay in Sorrento.

Meals:  B,L

Early in the morning, we will visit the ruins of Pompei, which offer a fantastic glimpse into Roman life as it was 2.000 years ago. Considered to be one of the world’s premier archaeological sites, Pompei is one of the most significant proofs of Roman civilization. After this excursion, wine and local product tasting in a little family run winery located on the Vesuvius area. In the afternoon, we will get to the top of Mt.Vesuvius, destination of our walk. We'll climb the top of our first active volcano, the Bay of Naples serving as our backdrop, while our guide shares their knowledge of the mountain's geological and natural history. After the walk, transfer to Agerola, located 650 metres above sea level, from where you can get a feeling for slow-paced village life and a beautiful view on the Amalfi coast. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Agerola.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we enjoy a beautiful walk along the Monti Lattari ridge, taking in breathtaking views over the entire Sorrento Peninsula. From Agerola, we begin our descent toward Amalfi, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and sweeping coastal panoramas. Once in Amalfi, there will be time to explore some of the town’s cultural highlights, including Piazza Duomo and the stunning 11th-century Cathedral of Saint Andrew, known for its impressive façade and rich history. To round off the day, we’ll visit a local limoncello factory, where you'll have the chance to taste a traditional homemade Neapolitan lemon liqueur, a refreshing treat after the day’s walk. We then return to Agerola by bus, followed by dinner and and at the hotel.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today begins with a bus transfer to Amalfi, where we set off on a scenic hike through the magnificent Ferriere Valley. This route immerses us in a lush natural landscape of cascading streams, waterfalls, and a unique subtropical microclimate — a surprising contrast to the coastal surroundings. Our trail leads us to Ravello, a beautiful hilltop town perched high above the coastline, renowned for its Moorish architecture, elegant villas, and rich artistic heritage. Over the years, Ravello has captivated countless artists and writers with its peaceful ambiance and charming streets. You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch (not included) — with plenty of restaurants and pizzerias to choose from — and the option to visit the town’s famous gardens, such as Villa Rufolo or Villa Cimbrone, before we return to Agerola by minibus. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Agerola.

Meals:  B,D

After breakfast, we set out to explore the legendary "Path of the Gods" — a spectacular trail perched high above the coastline with panoramic views across the entire Amalfi Coast. Starting from Agerola, we follow this scenic route toward the charming cliffside town of Positano. On arrival in Positano, you'll have time to wander its enchanting streets, climbing the stairways that connect the town’s terraced levels, lined with boutiques, cafés, and postcard-perfect vistas. After enjoying lunch in town, we transfer by boat to Amalfi (weather permitting), then return to Agerola by minibus. Dinner and overnight stay in Agerola.

Meals:  B,L,D

In the morning according to the group flight, transfer by minibus to Naples’ airport to meet the group flights where arrangements conclude.

Meals:  B

What's Included

  • Barwon Health representative
  • 6 breakfasts, 4 picnic lunches, 5 dinners
  • 6 nights’ accommodation on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • All transfers as per the itinerary using a private minibus
  • Hydrofoil to/from Capri, boat / public bus from Positano to Amalfi
  • Experienced English speaking guide with local knowledge
  • All activities as per the itinerary (pizza making, Limoncello producer visit etc)
  • Entrance tickets for Vesuvius and Pompeii
  • Hotel taxes

What's Not Included

  • Travel to and from Naples
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Excess Luggage

What You Carry

  • You only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements on the walks including wet weather gear, lunch supplies, water bottle, warm top, phone, walking poles etc

Italy Challenge Reviews

Travel Dates

Other Challenge Costs

Fundraising target:USD$1330 

Fast Facts

Trip Dates: DepartReturn
Duration:7 Days
Grade:moderate  Click for more information
Trip Code:BAC
Registration Fee:USD$130
Travel Cost:USD$130
Fundraising target:USD$1330