Cinque Terre, Italy

Experience Cinque Terre

People often don’t realize the Cinque Terre (meaning five lands) is comprised of 5 (really six, but we won’t quibble) separate coastal villages connected by hiking trails and a local train. The towns are Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso, Riomaggiore, and Vernazza. Each town has its own old world charms and offers different points of view. The northernmost village of Monterosso is slightly more modern with beaches and a boardwalk.

 

Monterosso and Vernazza were the first two villages, and the imposing towers perched upon the hillsides were built in defense of the Turks in the 16th century. The towns are supported in large part by fishing and it is said that the large array of house colors is for the benefit of the fishermen to be able to spot their houses from out at sea.

 

Most people opt for taking the train in from La Spezia or Genova as the towns are not easily accessible by car.

  • The population of averages around 1000 per city, with Corniglia being the smallest at 560
  • The Cinque Terre boasts some of the best coastline hiking trails in the world
  • The coastline, the five villages, and the surrounding hillsides are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • The villages, trails, and hillsides were severely affected by torrential rains,  floods and mudslides in 2011, the trails have only now been opened back up.
  • During summer there are swimming competitions in Open Water and non-competitive events, with the purpose of promoting the sport activity in the water of the natural park
  • Given its location, seafood is plentiful, while they are known for their fresh anchovies
  • The Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grapes of the Cinque Terre are used to produce two locally made wines, Cinque Terre and Sciachetrà

There are a multitude of hotel options in the city.  There is something to meet every financial, cultural and historical need. VoomaGo has worked with our network of Locals and partnered with a few vetted accommodations and options. When we’re building your trip with you, we can discuss the availability and right fit for your needs.

A day in Cinque Terre…

Whatever city you find yourself in, you must savor the old world feel and take your time to stroll through the cities from the the top all the way down the coast and appreciate all the little nuances of Italian life that make these cities so popular with tourists. Hop on the intercity train to easily segway into a new city with all it’s own natural charms. And if you’re able (weather is not always cooperative) to take a hike between the cities (Manarola to Riomaggiore is the shortest at 20 minutes) you will be rewarded with stunning views of some of the best coastal hiking in the world.

Find a nice hole in the wall trattoria and make sure you try Trofie con Pesto, a local pasta topped with the regional sauce of Liguria. Take a stroll down to the waterfront to watch the amazing sunset while listening to the waves beat against the rocks.

Experiences in Cinque Terre

Sailing the Rock-Perched Towns of the Cinque Terre view