Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most recognisable roads, but its appeal to motorcycle riders goes far beyond its postcard reputation. The SS163 follows a spectacular section of coastline between the Sorrento Peninsula and Salerno, threading between steep mountainsides, historic villages and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The road itself is narrow, constantly changing direction and closely connected to the landscape around it.

From Sorrento, the route gradually moves towards the more dramatic coastline around Positano and Praiano. Corners arrive almost continuously, with short straights connecting one bend to the next as the road climbs and drops along the cliffs. The views constantly change between open sea, sheer rock faces and tightly packed coastal villages, making the scenery an integral part of the ride rather than something that simply surrounds it.

For riders, the challenge comes less from speed or elevation and more from precision and awareness. The road is narrow, sightlines can be limited and traffic can include cars, buses, scooters, cyclists and pedestrians. When the road opens up, however, the combination of flowing bends and dramatic coastal views creates an unmistakable riding rhythm.

The Amalfi Coast demands patience as much as it rewards skill. Ride it slowly enough to appreciate the road, the villages and the sea, and the coast becomes the experience itself.

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s busiest tourist areas, and traffic can be heavy during the summer months, particularly around Positano and Amalfi. The SS163 is narrow in places, with limited visibility around corners and frequent buses, scooters, cyclists and pedestrians. Parking can also be difficult in the coastal towns. Early morning is generally the best time for a motorcycle ride, when traffic is lighter and the road is easier to enjoy. Check local traffic restrictions before riding, as access rules can vary seasonally.

The Ride Beyond route begins in Sorrento and follows the peninsula towards Positano. The road gradually becomes more dramatic as it approaches the coast, with increasingly frequent bends and elevated views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. Positano marks the beginning of the most famous section of the route.

From Positano, the road continues through Praiano towards Amalfi, following the contours of the cliffs above the water. The road repeatedly rises and falls while passing through tunnels, bends and densely built coastal villages. Around Amalfi, the route briefly moves inland towards Ravello, providing a different perspective over the coastline before returning towards the coast.

The route then continues east through Maiori and along the coastline towards Vietri sul Mare. The character gradually becomes less enclosed as the mountains open towards the Gulf of Salerno, while the road remains consistently winding. The final section leads into Salerno, marking the end of the Ride Beyond crossing.

The Amalfi Coast is not a road to conquer. It is a road to savour. Ride early, keep the pace relaxed and let the combination of corners, cliffs and sea define the journey.