Cinque Terre Glimpse
Visit the five illustrious villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Cornilia, Manarola and Riomaggiore while enjoying breathtaking views of the sapphire blue Mediterranean Sea. Walk along steep terraced hills of olive groves, vineyards and lemon trees and experience outstandingly delicious sea food and the famous Trofie al Pesto
Enter the magical land of the Cinque Terre, five unique fishing villages along the Ligurian coast, known as Italy's "Flower-Riviera". These secluded villages are best reached by train or foot, as car access is limited. Walking along the coastal footpaths offers striking views of lush Mediterranean vineyards and wild flowers abloom; while further inland there are tantalizing pine and chestnut forests. Travel by train of boat from Monterosso to picturesque villages where you can savor the delicious local cuisine and relax with a glass of white wine in an outdoor café overlooking the sea. The Cinque Terre are sure to please the palette of every visitor.
Day 1: Arrive in Monterosso
As soon as you get settled in your accommodation, step outside and breathe in the incredibly fresh, crisp air of the Mediterranean Sea. In the afternoon you can visit the historic center, and in the evening, let all your senses be delighted as you prepare for your phenomenal walking adventure ahead. Accommodation is in Monterosso al Mare.
Day 2: La Via dell'Amore walk
This classic Cinque Terre walk offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and terraced hills of vineyards. Marvel at the multicolored mosaic of these five picturesque villages overlooking the sea. Though the path gets crowded from Riomaggiore to Corniglia, the tourists subside as you climb and reach serene beauty up high. The day's walk can be divided into four separate stretches as you can catch the train at any of the villages. Return to Monterosso and overnight.(B) Today's challenge: 13.9 km, 940m climb, 950m descent, 7 hours Villages along the way: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore
Day 3: From Monterosso to Levanto & Bonassola
Follow the coastline from Monterosso to the idyllic painter's paradise of Levanto, located in the center of a charming valley surrounded by green hills and uncontaminated nature. Along the way, pass the Promontory of Mesco, a lookout point where you can visit the ruins of the Chapel of San Antonio Semaforo. Glance out over the crystal clean waters and take in the essence of Liguria. Continue to Bonassola for check-in and overnight accommodation. (B) Today's challenge: 7 km, 400m climb, 400m descent, 3 hours Villages along the way: Monterosso, Levanto and Bonassola
Day 4: Framura & Bonassola
Today's walk begins in Framura, an old village inhabited for over 1000 years. Continue along the lush vegetation of olive groves and lemon trees as you greet the sea with your ecstatic smile. Take a rest at one of the local cafe's in Bonassola, where you can enjoy a glass of Sciacchetra', the renowned local dessert wine and admire the impressive "red marble" rock. Overnight in Bonasolla.(B) Today's challenge: 11.1 km, 550m climb, 550m descent, 5 hours Villages along the way: Framura, Levanto & Bonassola
Day 5: Arrivederci Cinque Terre!
The trip ends after breakfast. You can depart Bonassola by train and easily reach Pisa, Genoa, Florence or Milan airports. (B)
Getting there:
The nearest airports to the Cinque Terra are in Genoa and Pisa. Florence airport also has good connections. Nearly all trains from Genoa go directly to Monterosso, without having to change trains (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours). From Pisa airport, you have to change at Pisa Centrale, and again at La Spezia for a local train that stops at Monterosso (approximately 2.15 hours). The last train from La Spezia to Monterosso leaves around 10pm. If you come by car, there are 2 large, open-air, private parking areas in Monterosso.
Optional Services:
Additional nights may be booked at any of the accommodations along the way. Airport arrival and/or departure transfers.
Also available as an 7 day tour!
The Challenge: These walks, though not very long, are moderate to demanding because of the steep hills. The walks follow well marked footpaths & mule tracks, yet it can be tiring to walk along the stone steps of diverse sizes. Several walks can be shortened and you can take the local train to get to and from the walks. Lodging: Small comfortable 3 star hotels with a friendly, family run atmosphere. All the rooms have private bathrooms, TV & mini bar. Tour Departure: Daily from March 01 to November 07. The trip can be inverted depending on hotel availability
