Italy - Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre form a national park on the shores of the Mediterranean in northern western Italy (in Liguria) named World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1997 and attract millions of tourists a year. The main attractions of the region are the five villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore colored and connected to each other by multiple hiking trails, as well as an efficient train system. It is difficult to access the villages by car because the coast is very mountainous and hilly. It is therefore recommended to leave your car in La Spezia and take the train to reach the villages or to stay in Monterosso, the most western village that can be reached by car. We chose to stay in Monterosso in a nice little hotel with amazing views, as well as a super nice breakfast service. The hotel is located on the side of the old town and a short walk from the Azzuro trail from Monterosso to Vernazza. This village is the largest of the Cinque Terre and therefore offers a very interesting choice of restaurants, as well as a more lively nightlife.

Accomodation: Hotel Pasquale, 4 via Fegina, www.hotelpasquale.it

Activities:

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For us, the most important attraction of this region is undoubtedly the park and its many hiking trails. It is possible to find all the necessary information to prepare on the site www.parconazionale5terre.it. Thus, a trekking card for one day costs 7.5E per person, 16E if we choose the option trekking + train. This last option is very interesting since it is then possible to hike between some villages and return by train. As our accommodation was in Monterosso, we hiked on the Azzuro trail no 2 linking Monterosso to Vernazza and Corniglia. This hike is relatively demanding but offers breathtaking views, especially when arriving in Vernazza.

It is also possible, in season, to visit villages by boat with the exception of Corniglia which has no port. An unlimited ticket for the day costs 35E for an adult and must be bought the same day on the spot. You will thus be able to benefit from the exceptional sight of the villages from the sea.

Finally, each village has its own characteristics, which is why it deserves a visit. We loved Vernazza with its castle and its beautiful Belforte tower. Corniglia is the highest but the smallest village, it offers exceptional views.