Cinque Terre - A Must Visit

Do you have a travel wish-list for 2020? If not, why not consider adding Cinque Terre to one of your must visit locations this year?

Nestled in the coastline of the Italian Riviera Cinque Terre encompasses a set of five villages from the North to the South: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore all protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the main reasons Cinque Terre is such a popular destination is its steep landscape and terraced vineyards right up to the rugged cliffs that overlook the sea. The views are stunning!

For those of you looking to escape the over crowded main cities in Italy, these panoramic villages are ideal for walkers and hikers alike with some of the villages limiting car access.

If you are still not certain Cinque Terre should be added to your travel list for 2020, check out the individual villages encompassing such an iconic location. I am certain this is one place you do not want to miss out on visiting!

Monterosso al Mare located in the northern most part of the island, is the biggest of the villages in the province of La Spezia and one of the most visited in Cinque Terre. Although not one of the most charming of the villages it does boast an amazing pebble beach. Just beware, it gets crowded during the summertime.

Vernazza is the steepest and one of the most beautiful villages in Cinque Terre. This small fishing village has a population of just under 900 inhabitants. Located in the province of La Spezia, Liguria, the colorful houses are enchanting, all leading down below to a sandy beach and the only natural harbor on the island. The cobblestone streets are lined with small cafes and the side-treets lead you to the well-known Genoa-style caruggii. These narrow streets provide you with amazing views of the sea.

Corniglia located in the middle of the five villages, is the only one not built directly on the sea, but on a cliff. Corniglia known for it’s rich agricultural customs, is surrounded on three sides by vineyards and terraces. Also located in the province of La Spezia, Liguria it is one of the most visited attraction village, especially the Parish of San Pietro built in 1334. If you arrive by train and don’t want to walk to the city center there are bus services available.

Manarola the next village you find in Cinque Terre is surrounded by grapevines. The village is lined with fishing boats and multicolored homes making for a picturesque scene as you make your way to Riomaggiore. Some believe this is one of the most romantic of the villages in Cinque Terre as it sits 70 meters above sea level. If visit, don’t forget to check out the Church of San Lorenzo which dates back to 1338.

Riomaggiore the first village and located in the southern most point of the island is considered one of the most romantic locations in Cinque Terre. Boasting a botanical garden and bird watching center located on a rocky promontory, this is definitely a must visit location.

The five villages of Cinque Terre are connected by footpaths, rail, and local trains. If you decide to visit ensure you are wearing comfortable shoes with tracking, hiking boots highly suggested. There are warning flyers and posters about wearing improper footwear and if you purchase a Cinque Terre card online there is also a warning listed there so you have no excuse.

You can access the villages by train, a five minute ride, but avoid the end of the word day as they become overly crowded. Purchasing the train card is suggested as it provides service from La Spezia to Levanto with stops in Riomaggiore, Manarola, Comigilia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare.

Just remember that each village is different, so take it slow and enjoy everything Cinque Terre has to offer, you will not be disappointed.

UPDATE:

Good News! Out of the 120 kilometers of trails throughout the area, one of the most well-known “Lover’s Lane” Villa dell’ Amore connecting villages Riomaggiore and Manarola which has been closed for more than a decade is now slated to re-open. The trail initially closed following a landslide in 2012 in which four tourists were injured is expected to be open to the public sometime in 2023.