The hillside district of Giovi, extending for approximately 10 km along the eastern side of Salerno, offers stunning views over the city, the Piana del Sele and the Golfo di Salerno. Brignano can be reached by bus line 14 and Giovi by bus line 13, allowing hikers to complete the crossing independently.
The route starts from Lago di Brignano, a small lake fed by a natural spring, following the CAI 173 trail. After climbing ancient stone steps, the path crosses the Borgo dei Pazzi, where the ruins of the Lombard church of Sant’Eustachio (10th century) can be found. The trail continues towards Casa Gallo di Giovi, passing through holm oak and chestnut woods. At the drinking fountain with potable water, hikers can take a break; from here, a short detour leads to the viewpoint of Pietra di Santo Stefano. The route continues towards Giovi Piegolelle, the village of Casa Vicinanza with its ancient public oven and the church of Santa Croce, whose panoramic churchyard offers one of the widest views over the Golfo di Salerno. Crossing Casa Casale and Giovi Casa D’Amato, the trail reaches Giovi Montena. From here, a local road follows the ridges of the plateau; a short detour allows visitors to explore the ruins of the Casino di Caccia del Principe Arechi.
The final section crosses a natural environment rich in biodiversity until reaching the Bosco dei Dodici Apostoli, the final destination of the excursion. Just beyond the woodland, an exceptional viewpoint opens up, embracing the Costiera Amalfitana, Cilento, the Piana del Sele, the Alburni mountains with Monte Cervati, the Valle del Picentino and the Monti Picentini.