Biking Tours of Italy: The Amalfi Coast

Fantastic trip. This was our first guided group cycling trip and our first trip to Italy. Loved the mix of cycling and culture. We enjoyed interacting with our fellow travellers very much as we shared the journey. There is a great variety of cycling with beautiful views throughout: from steady climbs, fun descents, undulating rolling and winding roads, long stretches in the quiet countryside, and exciting sections of busy but good flowing coastal traffic, Besides cycling, we also got to do some swimming and to boat into a lovely blue grotto. The food and scenery on this trip is really wonderful. We had amazing lunches in beautiful spots every day. Our bikes worked very well and were well cared for. On our final free day, Paulo led a (steep) hike up to Ravello and down to Amalfi. This hike into the orchards and quiet areas above the tourist-heavy centers was a beautiful trek that deepened our appreciation for the region's culture and history. Others in our group enjoyed their free day in Pompeii or Capri.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Riding up to the temples in Pasteum at sunset was a wonderful moment after a ~60km day. It capped a day filled with rolling on quiet roads, through small towns, swimming in the Mediterranean, and enjoying lovely food and drink.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader, Paulo, made the trip a pleasure with well-thought out routing and pacing of the day. Paulo was very knowledgeable and passionate about the region. We also very much appreciated Raffaele, who followed the group with the van, provided water and the bike mechanic support, and gave a lift on the few occassions someone in the group needed it. Often he helped guide us through busy intersections.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Be prepared for some climbing and descending. The trip notes are very accurate regarding the elevation gain/loss, distance and type of terrain for each day. Be ready to encounter the heavier scooter and car traffic on Amalfi coast so you are comfortable in this busier section.

A lovely ride, some challenges but never daunting. Suitable for all levels..e bikes, leisure riders and more competitive people. Stunning scenery but also great places of interest to visit...eg paestum, mozzarella farm, . Great food. Excellent, caring staff. Good to see cliento...less known than the amalfi Coast so less crowded but a beautiful bit of Italy. Good to have time on the last day to see the amalfi Coast by boat...very different view of the landscape.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Lots...paestum was surprising. Maybe also the gorge....where was it?
What did you think of your group leader?
Brilliant. Knowledgable, friendly, caring, kept the group together...not always easy. Went beyond his duties. Dealt well with a group member who needed to be hospitalised.....good feedback to group.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Go for it...whatever your age. And if you are worried...E bikes are an option. ....though not for everyone.

This trip offers the chance to experience both a quiet rural part of Italy (Cilento) and then the hustle and excitement of the Amalfi coast. The trip was very well planned and executed throughout. It is physically tough in places with some long climbs and could be classed as a '4' rather than '3' but this makes it all the more rewarding. The scenery is breathtaking - especially in Amalfi. This, along with the exceptional Italian cuisine, and a couple of espressos keeps motivation and morale high and the miles effortlessly tick away.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Reaching the highest point along the Amalfi Coastal road and stopping to look back along the coast where we had cycled from.
What did you think of your group leader?
Alessandro was extremely attentive, a fountain of knowledge and had a great sense of humour. He had some unique insights into Cilento - his local region where he also farms. He effortlessly managed to knit together a group with mixed levels of fittness.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
The support van is never that far away and there is a small bag on the bike so there is no need to take a rucksack, pump tools etc. Just a water bottle (refilled from the van whenever required), small camera and wallet. I took SPDs and shoes which are great if you use them.

This trip exceeded my expectations. The scenery was breathtakingly beautiful everywhere. The food was amazing, and the cycling was varied and fun.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Visiting the home of the Mediterranean diet was inspirational. Not only was it interesting information, but Pioppi is pretty much paradise, and we had some of the most delicious food I have ever eaten for lunch with one of the best views on the entire planet. The picnic on the beach of fresh bread, mozzarella, tomatoes and strawberries was pretty special too.
What did you think of your group leader?
Paolo was an excellent leader, so well organised he made it look easy. He managed the different abilities of the group well, picked the perfect places to eat and was always full of local knowledge.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
As long as you can ride 30 miles or so and go up a decent hill, the cycling is fine. Going in April is lovely as it is much quieter (although the Amalfi coast was still very busy) and there are wildflowers everywhere. However, it's a bit cold for swimming, and you need clothing for variable weather. Most days were warm and sunny though.

This was my first cycling holiday and what a way to start. Firstly let me start by talking about the guide & driver/mechanic These guys made the holiday always went above & beyond nothing was too much trouble holiday was amazing disagree with the rating of 3 was hard but you need to push yourself. Thanks again guys great job ??
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Getting to the top of those bloody hills!!!
What did you think of your group leader?
Alessandro was amazing he was like one of the group
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Train before you book at least 6 weeks

This was the first Exodus trip I've done and I can honestly say it's one of the best holidays I've ever had. Our tour guide, Alessandro, was EXCELLENT, so helpful, hard working, knowledgable and friendly. Nothing was too much bother, he really did go the extra mile to ensure we all had a great holiday sharing all his local knowledge and taking us to some fantastic places. If you like mountainous national parks, stunning coast lines, amazing food and some golden sun then this is the tour for you! The only thing I would say is that there are definitely some steep ascents involved so if you're not feeling 100% energetic an e-bike might be a good option for you (as I opted for & highly appreciated - although all the others in my group who opted for a normal bike seemed fine with this option too so just a personal preference at the end of the day). I should also say, Raffaele, our driver was GREAT too. A fantastic trip - highly recommend and a big thank you to Alessandro, Raffaele and all at Exodus!!!!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Cilento national park Amalfi coastline Ravello Amazing food!!

Excellent trip ; the food and the scenery were the highlights !
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
cycling along the coast...sea, sunshine, laid back atmosphere.
What did you think of your group leader?
Excellent. Very calm & quiet, and had everything under control.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
If you enjoy Italy, good food, amazing views of the sea with Italian villages and lemon groves you will enjoy this trip. On the last day do the walk to Revalo, the views from the Villa's are incredible.

This is a fairly challenging trip though extraordinarily gorgeous country. The hotels were much better than I expected, This was my second week with Exodus as I had just finished the Florence to Luca ride. This tour was a perfect compliment to the former. The food and dining was, squisito! You have not t lived until you have drunk a cappuccino with buffalo milk.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Surviving the Amalfi coast on a bicycle.
What did you think of your group leader?
Alessandro was superb. He is organised, informative, helpful. He is also a very strong cyclist and kept constant watch over everyone's safety and abilities. I would do another tour with him in a heartbeat.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Prepare to eat yourself silly and go through pasta withdrawal when you come home. If you think you might be too challenged by the climbs, feel that it is okay to hire an ebike.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Make sure you pack a swimsuit.

This was the first cycling trip I've ever taken and while it was tough (I did zero training which was my own fault), I really enjoyed it. It made me want to explore more of southern Italy. I thought the itinerary was nicely laid out with the first, third and last days featuring long (but stunning) rides and the days in between featuring more sight-seeing (which I hadn't expected based on the trip notes). Cilento was lovely and a nice counterpoint to the craziness of the Amalfi coast. Paolo was an excellent guide and we had a great group of people who were a lot of fun to hang out with.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
I was really happy on that final descent into Minori.
What did you think of your group leader?
Paolo and the support van driver Rafaele were great--super nice, well organised, patient. Paolo really tried to give us a sense of southern Italy-the history, the people, the places, the food. The food! While you were free to go off on your own, Paolo arranged most of the meals for us and encouraged us to sample the local specialties--olive oil, mozzarella di bufala, various aperitifs and the best antipasti. One person commented that it was like being on a gastronomy tour.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Prepare for lots of up and down. There's almost no flat terrain. Bring enough cash. We were running low and it took us a while to find an ATM that took our card. The weather could go from hot to cold to windy to rainy all within an afternoon. Bring everything and store it in the van. The trip notes said the last day was 50K, but Paolo wanted us to see Sorrento which added another ~20K (and the steepest climb of the trip-I joined Rafaele in the van part way up that hill). Word of warning on bus service on the Amalfi coast. On our last day, we took the bus to Vietri to do a little shopping-since Paolo was taking the same bus to Salerno, he made sure that we got there with no problems. Coming back, the buses were so crowded that we either couldn't get on or they didn't bother stopping. We ended up splitting a cab with a German woman who was trying to get back to Maori.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I don't know if the excursions are at the discretion of the guide, but Paolo took us on a bunch that weren't mentioned in the trip notes. On our second morning out, we took a boat to the Blue Grotto which was a highlight of the trip. In Paestum, we had the option of visiting a buffalo farm where they make mozzarella (and excellent ice cream). Paolo gave us a tour of the cathedral in Salerno. And, on the free day he led a group of us up the 1000 steps to Ravello and on a tour of Villa Cimbrone, which was another highlight.

As the oldest member of our group I was slightly apprehensive about cycling the Amalfi coast before we started but Paolo, our guide, put us all at ease straight away. Every day was hugely enjoyable and Paolo was very informative about the local area and the Mediterranean diet. Breathtaking views around every corner!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Completing the last day's cycling from Minori to Sorrento and back was my longest and hardest day to date - 86km and 1,335m of elevation, but it was so satisfying to complete it.
What did you think of your group leader?
Paolo was great! He worked tirelessly to keep us all more or less together, was very knowledgeable about the local area and managed to get some good discounts at various restaurants.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
If I can do it so can you! I am a 'social' rider with my local club riding once or twice a week usually around 30-40 k and a few local hills. Before the holiday I made sure I could ride several consecutive days and upped my distance/elevation a little. Every ride was split into manageable sections with breaks for coffee, lunch, photo opportunities etc. so plenty of recovery time after a challenging climb.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Our group was a mix of 4 Brits, 4 Aussies and 3 Canadians and the group gelled very well. We spent most of our free time together and all the evening meals which were organised by Paolo.

Really good trip with just the right mix of cycling & sightseeing.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Cilento region was my favourite for cycling, just as picturesque as Amalfi coast but MUCH less crowded & touristy, with safer roads!
What did you think of your group leader?
Paolo was very friendly & efficient, well organised & with good local knowledge. Special mention also to Rafael, our backup driver & mechanic who would magically appear whenever needed, always on hand with water or bike sorting skills.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Bring good waterproofs! I only had a light jacket with me thinking Italy doesn't get rain like at home, but a couple of downpours convinced me otherwise (although this trip was quite late in the year).
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Cycling Amalfi coast is not for the faint hearted! Was a bit scary even as a fairly confident cyclist. Cilento region was much better for cycling in my opinion, Amalfi coast much better suited to travelling by boat. But still v scenic.

A great holiday that pushed us to achieve more than we expected
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Completing a 75k trip to Sorrento - way beyond any distance attempted before. Completed due to the inspiring leadership of Paolo !
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader Paolo Longo is an exceptional guy - able to lead a mixed age/ability group so everyone felt challenged and ready to literally go the extra mile. Really genuine enthusiasm for showing us something different everywhere we went. Equally we were supported by Raphaelo throughout with instant technical help and always there to ensure we made safe passage along busy routes. A team that were fun and professional throughout.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Do prepare to get up to at least 30k days so you can enjoy every minute of this spectacular hilly route.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Just try it !

A fantastic adventure with a superb guide, delightful scenery, meeting new friends all in on a hybrid bike! Fuelled by wonderful local produce, coffees and wines.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Cycling to the top of the climbs and taking in the breathtaking views.
What did you think of your group leader?
Absolutely first class, Alessandro was our guide, host, coach, cashier, restaurant Booker and friend. Exceptional attention to every detail.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Padded cycle shorts. Get as cycle fit as you can, that way you can enjoy the very best of the scenery.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I wish I'd been on one of these adventures much sooner. Whilst my washing machine deals with my kit, I'm looking to book the next trip.

11 of us arrived on Day 1 for what would be an amazing cycling tour, not easy for all, especially me...but lots of fun, and pinch me moments as we travelled through such a beautiful part of the world. Together with the scenery came the food....ITALIANs do food so well, and this Exodus trip did not fail to disappoint! We enjoyed a wonderful mix of traditional foods from a variety of restaurants with the most amazing views and people. Both Paulo and Raphael led our trip with professionalism and with humour and friendliness. Nothing was too much trouble. History lessons on the go interspersed with swimming in the ocean( which when the temps soared were much loved), Macciato coffees, and Saints days all added to the colour of Southern Italy. Yes the cycling was hard...but it was well worth it. Grazie to everybody concerned.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Achieving the final day of riding...the longest day from Minori to Sorrento and back...luckily the temperatures had dropped.
What did you think of your group leader?
Awesome leader Paulo, well assisted by mechanic, water boy and driver Rapha. He did a fantastic job, leading the group, who varied in cycling ability, but Paulo was able to make sure everybody was safe on the busy, roads of the Amalfi but still achieve their cycling goals. A great source of knowledge and history.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Accept the challenge, book the trip then train harder than you think you need! If you can find a 12km hill to train on all the better!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The group members also play a major part in the success of the trip...so be prepared to get on , help each other out, and have fun....our group were excellent...from 4 countries, different cycling abilities and across the age spectrum.

Great week of cycling. Our guide was excellent - his knowledge of the area was extensive and it was interesting to hear the history of sites we were visiting. The scenery was unbelievable.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Climbing endless hills and being rewarded with outstanding views at the top!
What did you think of your group leader?
Paolo was absolutely wonderful. He has the patience of a saint! He was great at keeping his group together, stopping at just the right times, explaining the historical sites we visited ... he was fantastic! Rafael, our bike mechanic/van driver, was equally wonderful. The few problems we had with the bikes were rectified in minutes and it was always comforting knowing he was behind us. They are both very personable and we enjoyed their company.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
I will say that it was hillier than I expected. If you think you've done enough hill training ... do some more.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
All in all a great experience for our first trip to Italy. We will definitely be doing another Exodus trip!

Excellent staff and support. Fantastic views, riding and lunches!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The ride is in parts challenging which suited me. My wife is not such a strong rider and the support was excellent. From Salerno she was offer an electric bike which greatly assisted for the ride to Sorrento and back to Minori.
What did you think of your group leader?
Parlo was obliging and very well informed with points of interest en route.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
This is a must do ride!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Some meals could be improved. Breakfast in particular could have been better, Kings and the Farm house were fairly basic. Some dinners were a bit ordinary. This would not stop me from doing another ride with Exodus....we had a great time.

It was a good week. The grading for the cycling was spot on. The uphills were long but not to sharp, mostly 3-5 K with a 10K throw in for good measure. The bikes were good quality with low enough gears to enable you to manage. Some prior training would be helpful. The food was delicious and varied.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The boat trip to the blue lagoon and empty beach was delightful.
What did you think of your group leader?
Alessandro was a fantastic guide. His passion for that part of Italy clearly showed in his knowledge and love for the area. He was a thoughtful, kind leader where nothing was too much trouble.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Take more money than you think you might need as drinks more costly. There are very few flat parts to this cycle holiday. I do not feel the trip notes accurately reflected the hill.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The coast road past Amalfi was very busy with buses, coaches, cars and scooters. It was virtually impossible to appreciate the fabulous views as you needed to concentrate fully on both the uphills and downs. The quieter coast roads were much more enjoyable.

Loved it, great organisation and attention to detail !Our guide's enthusiasm for the area was inspirational.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Getting to the top of the climb and looking at the beautiful landscapes!
What did you think of your group leader?
Lovely chap!enthusiastic and informative.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Italy more expensive than expected for meals and alcohol .
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Bikes were fab , any ( although only small ) problems with bikes fixed straight away!