Vallone dei Mulini Sorrento
A hidden canyon in Sorrento's heart, featuring 13th-century mill ruins reclaimed by nature. A unique historical and visual spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Vallone dei Mulini Sorrento
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden canyon in Sorrento's heart, featuring 13th-century mill ruins reclaimed by nature. A unique historical and visual spectacle.
"The lost world in the bowels of Sorrento, a 30-metre-deep canyon with ancient ruins. 
🎯 Best Viewpoints
Look for viewpoints from bridges and streets above the canyon for the most dramatic perspectives.
🚶♀️ Explore Sorrento
The valley is centrally located; combine your visit with exploring Piazza Tasso and the historic center.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Mill Ruins
Vallone dei Mulini
Explore the hauntingly beautiful 13th-century stone mills, reclaimed by nature in a deep canyon.
Panoramic Overlooks
Bridges and streets surrounding the canyon
Gaze down into the 'lost world' of the valley from various vantage points in the heart of Sorrento.
Greenery and Nature
Vallone dei Mulini
Witness how lush vegetation has enveloped the abandoned mills, creating a dramatic and picturesque scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Viewpoint Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Viewpoints
Look for viewpoints from bridges and streets above the canyon for the most dramatic perspectives.
🚶♀️ Explore Sorrento
The valley is centrally located; combine your visit with exploring Piazza Tasso and the historic center.
🚫 No Entry Allowed
Remember, you can only view the mills from above; direct access to the valley is not permitted.
🍋 Local Flavors Nearby
Enjoy lemon-themed treats or pizza after your visit, as many eateries are close by.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Viewpoints
Look for viewpoints from bridges and streets above the canyon for the most dramatic perspectives.
🚶♀️ Explore Sorrento
The valley is centrally located; combine your visit with exploring Piazza Tasso and the historic center.
🚫 No Entry Allowed
Remember, you can only view the mills from above; direct access to the valley is not permitted.
🍋 Local Flavors Nearby
Enjoy lemon-themed treats or pizza after your visit, as many eateries are close by.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Vallone dei Mulini to be a surprisingly picturesque and unique sight, especially given its central location in Sorrento. The ancient ruins overgrown with greenery create a captivating 'lost world' atmosphere. While direct access is not possible, the views from above are widely appreciated.
"E bellisimo"
Oksana Sudak
"It's really strange, up and down by the old Mill"
Paolo Saccone (Touristic GUIDE)
"Very picturesque, people very friendly"
Ted Lawrence
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vallone dei Mulini is conveniently located right in the heart of Sorrento, near Piazza Tasso. You can easily walk to it from most parts of the town center.
Parking in Sorrento can be challenging. The closest public parking garages are often near Piazza Tasso, but it's best to check current availability and rates.
No, direct access to the valley floor and the mills is not permitted for safety and preservation reasons. You can only view it from above.
The best way to see it is from the bridges and streets that overlook the canyon. Look for designated viewpoints for the clearest sights.
Yes, it's an ideal spot for a brief stop as part of a larger Sorrento exploration, as it's so centrally located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the Vallone dei Mulini from the surrounding streets and bridges is free of charge.
Since it's viewed from public areas, there are no official opening hours. You can see it at any time, though daylight hours are best.
There is no entrance fee as you are viewing the site from public vantage points above the canyon.
Many general Sorrento walking tours will include a stop or mention of Vallone dei Mulini due to its central location.
The main restriction is that you cannot enter the valley itself. Please respect any signage and stay within designated viewing areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the views. If you have a camera with a good zoom, it can help capture details of the ruins.
Experiment with different bridges and street corners. The key is finding unobstructed views into the canyon.
Drone usage is generally restricted in populated areas like Sorrento. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
The contrast between the ancient stone ruins and the vibrant green overgrowth, set within a deep canyon, creates a unique and dramatic photographic subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great spot for a quick, educational stop during a family day out in Sorrento. Encourage kids to spot the different parts of the mills and imagine what life was like centuries ago. Combine this with a gelato stop nearby for a sweet reward!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for golden hour light to enhance the textures and atmosphere. Experiment with different angles from the surrounding streets and bridges to capture the full scope of this 'lost world.' Remember to be mindful of other visitors and respect any viewing area boundaries.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Valley of the Mills
However, the construction of Piazza Tasso in 1866 significantly altered the valley's landscape, cutting off its access to the sea and changing the water flow. By the 1940s, the mills were largely abandoned, leading to their gradual reclamation by nature.
Today, the valley is a striking testament to the passage of time, with lush vegetation, including ferns and trees, growing over and around the stone structures, creating a 'lost world' atmosphere that captivates visitors.
Experiencing the Views
Visitors often describe the sight as surreal and picturesque, with the ancient stone ruins peeking through the dense greenery. It's a stark contrast to the bustling town of Sorrento just meters away.
Many travelers recommend taking your time to find different vantage points to appreciate the scale and unique beauty of the valley. Look for spots along Via Fuorimura or near the main squares. The visual impact is significant, offering a glimpse into Sorrento's past and the power of nature to reclaim man-made structures.
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