Cinque Terre refers to a stretch of Ligurian coastline, about 18 kilometers long, where five villages perch dramatically on the sea cliffs: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. The Cinque Terre National Park has existed since 1999 and is the ideal destination for those who want to spend time in nature and admire enchanting landscapes. The walks in Cinque Terre will amaze you, making you feel suspended between reality and fantasy.
In this postcard-perfect area, sea and hills blend to create a dreamlike setting. That’s why it’s a very popular area for walking and trekking. Typical of the Cinque Terre are the terraces, strips of land that host cultivations
of olives and vines. The peculiarity is that they are carved into steep hillsides and supported by an intricate and ancient system of stone walls. The vegetation is typical Mediterranean scrub,and while walking you can encounter caper plants, sea fennel, and broom bushes. We are not far from the Apennines, so you’ll also find maritime pines, chestnuts, myrtle, and junipers.
Cinque Terre Walks: Our Tips
There are many options to choose from regarding excursions in this area, and it’s not always easy to figure out which route is best. If you’re thinking of visiting this enchanting place, we suggest some of the most beautiful routes to help you plan your trip to the Cinque Terre.
1. Blue Trail
The Blue Trail is the most famous path in the Cinque Terre Park. It connects Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare along the coast, passing through the other three villages: Manarola, Corniglia, and Vernazza. Those who are really fit can hike it in a single day, but usually it’s done in stages. Some sections are very easy, while others are a bit steeper. Along the way, you’ll encounter terraces rich with crops, Mediterranean vegetation, and, of course, the sea right beside you.
2. Sanctuary Trail
The Sanctuary Trail links the five sanctuaries in the area, all located high up. These are Our Lady of Health in Manarola, Our Lady of Grace in San Bernardino, Our Lady of Montenero in Riomaggiore, Our Lady of Regio in Vernazza, and Our Lady of Soviore in Monterosso.
This route is more challenging than the Blue Trail; if you don’t feel up to it, you can visit the sanctuaries separately, starting directly from each of the five seaside villages. Certainly, the Sanctuary Trail is unique and beautiful, crossing terraces, small villages and gardens, never losing sight of the sea.
3. Red Trail
The Red Trail, or High Route of the Cinque Terre (AV5T), runs throughout the Park and connects Portovenere to Levanto. It’s a very long trail, about 40 kilometers, so it will take at least a couple of days to complete. It starts in Portovenere where you’ll see the Albana cliffs, a natural wonder not to be missed. Continuing, you’ll descend 2,000 steps to reach the fabulous little beach of Punta del Persico and maybe, since you’re there, take a dip to cool off. Climbing back up and continuing the path, you’ll reach the highest point, Mount Malpertuso, about 800 meters.
4. Monesteroli
There are only two ways to reach the village of Monesteroli: by boat or by descending the Great Staircase for about half an hour. It’s more than 1,000 stone steps that open onto the little village with its red brick roofs and almost reach the sea. This is an enchanted place, almost forgotten by time, and not a very popular destination. The remaining houses have become holiday homes, others are abandoned; once they were cellars where wine was made. Yet it’s described as the most picturesque village in the entire region. You’ll walk through vineyards and woods, hear only the sounds of nature around you, always guided by the blue sea. 5. Beccara Way This trail was restored not too long ago, but in truth it’s a very old path. In the past, it was the only land route connecting Manarola and Riomaggiore. The
views
you’ll see walking along this path are breathtaking. Starting from Manarola, near the church, you climb a steep staircase and reach Costa del Corniolo. From here you’ll have an incredible view to admire and, naturally, photograph, before continuing down through the vineyards to Riomaggiore. Cinque Terre Walks: A Magical Experience The views you'll see walking along this route are breathtaking. Starting from Manarola, near the church, you climb a steep staircase and reach Costa del Corniolo. From here, you'll have an amazing view to admire and, of course, photograph, before continuing down through the vineyards to Riomaggiore.
enchanted
setting of the Cinque Terre. And after the walk? Just head to one of the colorful villages and enjoy an aperitif
by the sea at sunset. Each of the Cinque Terre villages definitely deserves a visit. Join a group of travelers and share the experience of walking together through this beautiful area. At the Welcome Centers, besides finding maps of the trails, you can purchase typical food and wine products and souvenirs as a memento of the By the sea at sunset. Each of the Cinque Terre villages definitely deserves a visit. Join a group of travelers and share the experience of walking together through this beautiful area.
you just had. Sometimes some trail sections may be closed; check the news on the Cinque Terre National Park website.experience fantastic just experienced. Sometimes some sections of the trails may be closed; check the news on the Cinque Terre National Park website.