In Italy´s region of Cinque Terre you can do easy, moderate and even challenging hikes. However, you want to. The best part of it is you can enjoy the ocean, the awakening nature and sometimes boats parked in the middle of an alley. Discover the best of hiking Cinque Terre.

TRAILS AROUND THE WORLD presents

Hiking Cinque Terre, Italy

By: Christina & Thomas

Sentiero Azzuro – Blue Trail

The Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzuro) means hiking Cinque Terre along the Mediterranean Sea and through picturesque villages. It connects the 5 villages Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore along the sea and is also called #2. If you really want to enjoy the Cinque Terre you should spend about two days or more. You could probably hike the Blue Trail in one day but I guess you want to enjoy the nature, the views and sometime in the small, colorful villages.

Via dell´Amore (Lover´s Walk)

Especially for the last day the Via dell´ Amore is a good choice. It is a 1.2 miles easy and short walk. The Via dell´Amore connects Riomaggiore with Manarola. Famous for its kissing statue and several love locks as well as its path next to the ocean.

Best View

The best view while hiking Cinque Terre is close to Portovenere. Although Portovenere does not really belong to the Cinque Terre many hikers walk this part of the trail for a good reason. You will hike along high cliffs and see exactly why the trail is called Blue Trail.

Most Beautiful Village

This is definitely Vernazza. If you come from the south you will see Vernazza from above. The colorful houses are built close together. This is a perfect place to take some pictures before walking down the steps to the center of Vernazza. You find restaurants at the little harbour, tiny shops and the train station close by.

Best Time For Hiking

April is one of the best times to enjoy hiking Cinque Terre. The flowers and trees are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant. Not too cold or hot.

Tips For Hiking Cinque Terre

• Use well-worn shoes. The hiking time can take up to 5 hours or more and you don´t want to suffer from blisters.
• Use the train getting to your starting point. It is a comfortable way and sometimes the only one to reach your destination. The train will take you along tunnels and you get a good overview of the region and some glimpses of the sea.
• Take enough to drink with you. Depending on your choice of path it can take some time until you reach the next village or any place to buy something to drink and eat.

Note: Recently some of the paths are closed due to maintenance or other reasons. Before you go there be sure to check out if your favorite path is open.

Christina & Thomas

Christina and Thomas from City Sea Country enjoy hiking at their home base Austria and other special places like the Cinque Terre. They constantly look for adventures, unique places and good vegetarian food around the world.

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