The five beautiful villages of Cinque Terre, Italy

Walking across the Italian Riviera & Mediterranean Sea

Last spring I spent a week in Tuscany, Italy. From there I went to La Spezia to visit five amazing villages. Famous for their coloured houses, these five Italian villages make “Cinque Terre”: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Cinque Terre including the coastline, the villages and the surrounding hillsides are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Paths, trains and boats connect the villages, and cars cannot reach them from the outside. The idea was to take the train to the last village (Moterosso) and walk back to the first (Riomaggiore).  Unfortunately some of the paths were closed due to maintenance.
 
 

Wine and dine: local products

During the walk you have some truly amazing views from the steep cliffs. Close to the shore of the Mediterranean Sea you pass vineyards, olive trees and have some amazing panoramic views. Obviously, seafood is plentiful in the local cuisine as well as some great wines. If you have the chance try one of the local ones, called Cinque Terre or Sciachetrà.

Tip: good walking shoes are necessary (and also obligatory since you can be checked).
 
 

Sunset in Manarola

So after a great day, a tasty local meal the day ended with an Espresso. Watching the sun set, hearing the waves and seagulls you couldn’t find a happier person. Of course one day is too short to let all your senses enjoy these wonderful surroundings, a good excuse to come back for a second time.

Gallery Cinque Terre, Italy