Cinque Terre Walking Adventure

Commence your delightful walking adventure at the tranquil Camogli village, located on the western edge of the Portofino Peninsula, just an hour’s train ride from Genoa Airport.

Camogli, located on the Riviera di Levante, is a breathtaking seafront village that is not widely known, making it a hidden gem. Visitors will be captivated by the stunning views, delicious Italian cuisine, and proximity to Portofino. Take some time to explore the local shops or enjoy a stroll along the oceanfront promenade, where you can admire the sight of fishing boats swaying gently on the rocky coastline.

Begin your day with an exhilarating climb up to the Church of San Rocco, marking the start of a scenic walking holiday along mountain paths and through pine forests with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Rest at the picturesque Port of San Fruttuoso, where you can either continue the hike or take a ferry (at an additional cost) to the charming fishing village of Portofino on the other side of the bay.

Along the way to Portofino, discover Il Faro, a lighthouse perched on the headland of Portofino, or the 16th-century fortress and art museum of Castello Brown. Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the iconic town of Portofino. Then, catch a ferry back to Camogli, bidding farewell to the vibrant scenery of Portofino and returning to the tranquil coastal retreat.

Start your day with a transfer to Deiva Marina, a serene seaside town surrounded by sandy beaches and lush hillsides. Embark on a walk through the scenic east riviera, taking in breathtaking views of Bonassola and the northern Ligurian coast.

Take a break in Framura for a leisurely lunch or continue the hike to Bonassola, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean. Treat yourself to a glass of wine or a spritz at a seafront restaurant before catching the train to Monterosso, the first of Cinque Terre’s five villages.

This morning, journey back to Bonassola by train and begin your walk along the old railway tracks. Enjoy the changing terrain as you traverse the rugged coastline, passing through tunnels and over bridges. Admire the Levanto valley‘s verdant interior, with its charming village dotted with church spires and towers, and take a train back to Monterosso to shorten the walk.

After leaving the railway path, continue on mountain paths towards Colla Bagari, basking in the panoramic views of the rolling mountains that encircle the “Gulf of Paradise.” Descend through olive groves and vineyards to Punta Mesco before returning to Monterosso for another night.

After a train transfer, start your exploration of Cinque Terre with a scenic walk from the charming village of Manarola, with its colorful houses clinging to the cliff edge and the azure blue waters below. Take your time to explore the village, indulge in local cuisine, and marvel at the breathtaking views.

The Via Beccara follows the original path between Manarola and Riomaggiore, with a steep ascent and descent along the mountain path that offers breathtaking views of the Cinque Terre coastline and terraced vineyards. Visit Riomaggiore before taking the train back to Monterosso, where you can enjoy a relaxing evening.

Start the day with a scenic train ride to Corniglia, the most peaceful of the Cinque Terre villages. Embark on a steep, but rewarding, hike back to Monterosso with a stop at Vernazza to admire its breathtaking natural harbor and colorful buildings. Explore the village’s rich history, including its original walls, the watchtower of Doria Castle, and religious sites.

Those looking to shorten the walk can take the train back to Monterosso from Vernazza. Alternatively, continue on the panoramic path for more stunning coastal views before ending the day in the familiar surroundings of Monterosso.

Board the train to Riomaggiore to commence the final walk of your journey. As you exit Cinque Terre, follow the path leading into the hills bordering Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has inspired many artists and writers, including Lord Byron.

Follow the ridgeline to Campiglia, then descend towards Portovenere, taking in the sight of the brightly colored houses that once served as a united wall against pirate attacks. You’ll notice marks and holes that scar them from those days. Visit the Gothic Church of St. Peter, renowned for its black-and-white stripes, the adjacent cemetery, and the stone fortress overlooking the Gulf of Poets.

After enjoying your last evening in the charming Portovenere, it will be time to say goodbye to Liguria. Before you leave, take some time to explore the town and soak in the beautiful surroundings. You can catch a bus to La Spezia and from there, choose your preferred mode of public transportation to your next destination or nearby airport.