Is Lerici Worth a Visit?

Actually you will be better off Vs Cinque Terre.

When tourists think about visiting the Italian Coast, their minds almost automatically wander to the Cinque Terre. While the towns in this national park definitely have a certain charm to them, the question arises whether other Italian places aren’t worth visiting as well. For example, what about Lerici? Is this picturesque coast-side village worth your time?

Well, the answer is a resounding yes! Even more so, Lerici has certain qualities that make it the better option in comparison to the Cinque Terre. If you’re not yet convinced, now follows a quick, concise overview of the most prominent reasons why you should absolutely visit Lerici if you have the time.

1. Better Location

First and foremost, Lerici has the better strategic location. It’s located near the south of La Spezia on the Ligurian coast. Lerici sometimes gets called “La Perla del Golfo”, which roughly translates into the pearl of the Golf. This reputation is due to Lerici’s breathtaking views and beauty. Additionally, even though Lerici isn’t significantly big, it’s still larger than towns of the Cinque Terre and most importantly, there’s more to do. Nowadays, Lerici is a very charming coast side village with a gorgeous harbor. The village has a lot to offer for culture lovers as well, such as the very impressive Lerici Castle. Besides that, there are relaxing beaches as well, not to mention the countless facilities for tourists, ranging from restaurants and cafés to beautiful piazzas.

2. Secluded, Yet Connected

Secondly, one of the greatest things about Lerici is that it isn’t too crowded with tourists yet. Hence, if you decide to pay this gorgeous town a village, you can just take your time to discover everything it has to offer at leisure. Nevertheless, even though it’s relatively remote, it’s still connected. That is to say, as of right now, Lerici doesn’t have a train station, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t other means of transport. Specifically, there are daily ferry boats that can take you to the Cinque Terre villages. Also, as regards reaching Lerici from La Spezia, you can simply take the bus or go by car.

Boats from and to Cinque Terre.

3. Great Culinary Experience for Fish Lovers

Another aspect where Lerici undoubtedly triumphs over the Cinque Terre is the food. More specifically, if you’re looking for great fish restaurants that can offer you an amazing price-quality ratio, Lerici positively is the place for you. That is, the villages in the Cinque Terre can offer great culinary experiences as well, but the restaurants there often are too crowded and this has a definite impact on the high prices there. Hence, this is a problem that you don’t have in Lerici. Now, if you’re looking for a very concrete tip, you should absolutely try out the food at “Ristorante Jeri“. You won’t regret it!

4. The Astounding Secluded Beaches

Last, but certainly not least, nothing beats the feeling of walking around a secluded beach where you can just immerse yourself in the wind and views at your own pace. Well, if you decide to pay Lerici a visit, you’ll find that you will have countless opportunities to experience this feeling. At first glance, you might think that you won’t find any decent sunbathing spots there because of the nature of the Ligurian coast. Namely, there’s actually not a lot of sand to be found on the entire Ligurian coast because the nature there predominantly consists of cliffs and rocks. However, if you do your research, you can definitely stumble upon some adorable, secluded beaches with enough sand to lie comfortably. While some of these beaches are free to access, you’ll have to keep in mind that other beaches can get quite expensive. Finally, if you’re looking for the ultimate beach experience, please don’t hesitate to consider Eco del Mare. This resort will provide you with everything that you need for a peaceful, satisfying day!

If you are looking for a beach day that is more wallet friendly you should try Baia Blu in Lerici.

Verdict: Lerici All the Way!

All in all, Lerici has many other advantages to offer besides the above-mentioned ones. However, these advantages hopefully have already given you a clear picture of Lerici’s charm and versatility. So, if you ever find yourself with the opportunity to travel and you’re interested in discovering the Italian Coast, please remember that Lerici is precisely what you need!

How to Reach and Hike to Riomaggiore (Cinque Terre).

Hiking around Cinque Terre is for sure THE major attraction in the area. Walking paths are literally everywhere but finding them it is not that straight forward as it might seem. In this case, you are reaching Riomaggiore by car there is an easy and nice walking track from the Strada Provinciale Cinque Terre. Simply park the car along the car park at coordinates 44.10210336570574, 9.743113807166992, just add them to google maps. Then keep walking another 100 meters direction Manarola. On the left you will find a paths that lead to Riomaggiore.

Besides the stunning pastel color buildings, Riomaggiore offers its visitors a wide variety of hiking trails. Walking is the best way to get to know this vibrant village in Cinque Terre, and why not do so by taking one of the exciting hiking trails to explore the surroundings? In this concise but complete guide, we put together what you should know about the most stunning trails in Riomaggiore. So, are you ready to learn all about them and plan your visit accordingly?

Walkings of Riomaggiore: The Ring

The Ring is a circular trail (that starts and ends in Riomaggiore) that

won’t take too much effort but will be worth the time spent walking. The route only takes about 1 hour and a half for a distance of slightly over two miles. The path is mainly flat, meaning that you won’t have to worry about steep tracts and can instead focus on the view. The trail starts at the main parking lot of the village, from where all you have to do is follow the main road up. In less than one hour, you’ll get to the Sanctuary, the main attraction of the route. Inside this ancient (and rich in history) church, you can admire the frescos in the ceiling. About 10 minutes from the church, you’ll get to Montenero, which will offer your a breathtaking view of the coast. After taking your pictures and admiring the panorama, you’ll get to Riomaggiore in about 20 minutes. The descent is easy, but there are many steps: take it with patience, and don’t forget to look at the stunning views surrounding you!

Riomaggiore Trail to Monterosso al Mare

The track from Riomaggiore to Manarola (also called the Lover’s Lane, Via dell’Amore in Italian) is part of a longer trail that connects the village to Monterosso al Mare. This section is only about 1 mile long and will probably take you around 30 minutes to cover. However, both that and the trail connecting Manarola to Corniglia are currently closed due to a landslide and will reopen only in 2024.

The longer track takes about 5 hours in total without counting the time you’d spend exploring each town you reach. The views are spectacular and worth the effort of walking 7 miles. However, if you want to take it slow, don’t worry. You can divide the route into smaller parts and take one trail at a time.

To take part in this hike, you’ll have to purchase a ticket, which you can buy at the station or tourist points. If you plan to travel by train and hop on a hike wherever possible, we recommend purchasing the Cinque Terre Treno Card. Select the combination that suits you better to have a couple of days of trekking and unlimited train trips.

Since Via dell’ Amore is currently closed, you have two options to get to Manarola from Riomaggiore: you can either take the train or hike a more difficult path that includes stone stairs and steep climbs. Breathtaking views of the vineyards and the coastline will reward your efforts.

Riomaggiore to Portovenere: The Longest

If you like a good sweat with stunning views, you’ll fall in love with the trail connecting Riomaggiore to Portovenere. This route will let you explore villages without ever leaving sight of the sea. The beauty of the views you’ll get to admire during this trail will enchant you. However, you’ll have to be ready for a 6-hour walk to complete the eight-miles track. For the length of the route, we recommend you take it during the spring or autumn to avoid the hot temperatures of the summer months. The trail is not particularly difficult but is quite long. The good news is that you can take time to rest in the villages through which it passes.

The trail starts from Riomaggiore’s station and goes through the panoramic track of the Sanctuary. Passing through forests, villages, and vineyards, you’ll get to Campiglia, from which you’ll be able to admire a stunning view of the gulf and the Palmaria island. From there, the trail keeps unrolling through the mountains of the regions until reaching the Muzzerone, where you’ll get to see one of the most beautiful views of the coast. The trail ends at Portovenere, where you’ll be able to take a good rest or keep visiting the village (if you have enough energy left).

As you can see, there are trails for all difficulty levels and preferences around Riomaggiore. If you want to get a real sense of the village and get the chance to explore the surroundings on your own while enjoying stunning views, you recommend you choose the trail that best suits your time constraints or your expertise. Have fun!

A Day in Manarola Best Gelateria in Town and (almost) Vertical Wine Making.

Manarola is the second smallest of the Cinque Terre towns that attract visitors from all corners of the world. It’s famous for the pastel-hued buildings, calm aquamarine waters, and rugged vineyard cliffs. But one thing that makes this place somewhat heroic is winemaking. Here is everything you should know about this magical place.

Best Way to get to Manarola is by train.

Regardless of how long you plan to visit Manarola, the best way to get there is by train. On average, there are 15 trains a day from Florence to Manarola. But because the town is tiny, you won’t find direct trains. All trains to Manarola must pass through La Sprezia. Other trains have two changes – usually the first in Pisa, the next one is Campo di Marte and then La Spezia. And depending on the route you take, the trip can take up to 3.5 hours.

For instance, you can start from Genoa to Spezia and then towards your destination. You should note how many changes you need to make. As you transverse the five villages in Cinque Terre, you can also choose the express train. It runs every 20 minutes from March to November.

If you’re passing through La Spezia, you may want to sit on the left side of the train to explore the magical views. Keep in mind that the train service is offered a few times during the weekends and holidays. So, be sure to check the schedules in advance. Once you get to Manarola, you can use the eco-friendly buses on the walking paths.

More info about getting to Cinque Terra please see here.

Manarola walking down from the car park

Best Gelato in Manarola Gelateria Cinque Terre.

Best gelateria in Manarola

A tour to the wineries works up an appetite for gelato. But all Gelateria in Manarola is not equal. If you want to enjoy the ice cream joint, then the Gelateria 5Terre will exceed your expectations. This is the most famous Gelateria that makes amazing pastries and popsicles for the delight of locals and visitors alike.

The main characterisct of their gelato is that everything edible, It is served in a biscuit container with an edible spoon. The standout flavor here is Loveria. It consists of a mixture of chocolate, vanilla, and pistachio. If you have some dietary restrictions, you’ll find some lactose and gluten-free options. If you want to put your taste buds to the test, you can try the refreshing combination of lemon and licorice.

Gelateria 5Terre is a delight for people with food intolerances all their icecreams are gluten free. No wonder this place appears as an icon to many tourists’ pictures, especially those that come to Manarola. It also offers a real welcome break during those sweltering summer days.

Since Manarola is a small charming town, this is a must-stop on your next visit. You’ll love the great service and friendly staff. Most visitors find it a generous spot, and that’s why they give a good rating. While the Gelateria can be busy at times, it’s certainly worth the wait.

Please see here the reviews of this gelateria.

Sciachetrà and acrobaitc winemaking.

Manarola is known for making the signature Sciacchetrà wine. It comes from special grapes carefully chosen to bring out the unique taste. Plus, you can pair it with cheese and desserts.

Given the topography of the area, grapes are the only crop of choice. It’s primarily a white grape territory. Some of the varieties you’ll see are albarola, Bosco, and Vermentino – you’ve probably heard of the latter.

The Bosco variety accounts for 40% of the blend, while the other percentage contains other varieties permitted. To bring out the sweet taste, the grapes are not pressed and fermented immediately after harvest. After the grapes arrive at the winery, they are allowed to dry naturally until the sugar content reaches higher level, it can be considered a passito wine such as the tuscan vinsanto.

Sciacchetrà wines feature golden-yellow colors that turn to amber over the years. In addition, they offer aromas of white blossoms, honey, and hints of citrus. The secret with this unique wine is that it must be aged before commercial release.

One signature wine is the Sciacchetrà from Cantina Cinque Terre. It’s a white wine produced by a company that pays attention to the manufacturing process. It comes in a 37.5 cl bottle and is distinguished from the rest by the hint of apricot and honey.

Sciacchetrà wine can be the perfect accompaniment to substantial and spicy cheeses. Being a rare wine, it’s best served at 16 degrees centigrade in transparent crystal goblets. One feature that makes this wine unique is its excellent capacity to improve with age. If you preserve it well, it has an average conservation period of 25 years. To preserve the taste, the bottles should be placed horizontally in a cool, dry place.

For more info about the production area please see here.

More information about how sciachetrà is made please see here.

The lanscape of wines yard in Manarola

winemaking in Manarola the old way.

Manarola from far

Cinque Terre: Is The Via dell’Amore Open?

Bad news first – no, the Sentiero dell’Amore is not currently open. And according to locals it doesn’t seem like a lot of effort is being put into securing the trail for public access.
But now that you know, let’s take a step back and see what we’re talking about and what alternatives you have.

First of all, if you found yourself looking for exciting and stunning trails and footpaths to walk down during your trip to Liguria, the Cinque Terre area is exactly what you need.
It is a portion of the coastal area of Liguria and it spans the Italian Riviera from just West of La Spezia and across five villages. The towns, coastline and surrounding hills are part of the Cinque Terre National Park and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the incredible landscape made of steep cliffs and terraced zones is subject to the elements and is affected by seasonal torrential rains and the consequent floods and mudslides. These events have caused several problems when it comes to the trails that line the Cinque Terre (the most notable example being the subject of this article, the Sentiero dell’Amore), so be careful to check weather alerts (“allerta meteo” in Italian) for dangerous weather conditions, and double check online or with local guides to make sure the trail and footpaths of your choice are currently safe and open to the public.
Of course, while you’re visiting the Cinque Terre, you can’t miss out on the other opportunities unique of this territory, such as local cuisine. You can enjoy great seafood dishes and wines made from locally sourced and produced grapes, and many other dishes and snacks. Try out authentic pesto pasta, focaccia and farinata!

To get back to the topic at hand, let’s see what options are available along the Cinque Terre as far as hiking goes. Don’t worry, there’s plenty to do and see for walkers and hikers both travelling solo, in groups, or with their significant other.

What Exactly Is The Sentiero dell’Amore?

The Sentiero has been closed off to the public ever since a landslide back in 2012. Before the rockfall hit, this particular trail was famous for being the most romantic hike one could possibly do in the Cinque Terre area.
The trail is more of a paved path, like a long terrace overlooking the sea, and easy access for the disabled was available to allow everyone to enjoy the Sentiero. The landslide made it impossible to gain access to the trail, save for a short section that can be reached from Manarola, so anyone looking to walk along the Cinque Terre will have to look for alternatives.

Is It Currently Open?

As mentioned, no. The Sentiero dell’Amore is closed off, and any access to the other trails and footpaths depends on weather conditions, due to the region’s periodic floods and landslides that can always block passage to walkers and tourists. The National Park and local authorities will block access and close paths (most often only for a few days) for safety reasons when heavy rains are expected.

The Problems The Trail Is Facing

Since the region has to face periodical heavy rains, due to the area’s climate and the peculiar shape of the territory, with cliffs and rocky formations, the authorities have to face several occurrences of accidents and damage to the paths along the Cinque Terre. The copious amount of tourists visiting the area and enjoying the activities and establishments in the villages along the area’s trails ensure a steady income that is used to maintain the structures and footpaths, but the severe damage caused in 2012 to the Sentiero dell’Amore still hasn’t been repaired.
One of the main problems in the area remains the landslide between Manarola and Corniglia, that has already caused the trail’s closure during the past year. Local accommodation and business owners maintain some of the trails, as volunteers.
You can easily by-pass the problematic section by enjoying a beautiful walk leading through the hamlet of Volastra.

Here Are Some Alternatives

There are plenty of beautiful, picturesque and romantic trails that you can walk for a fantastically immersive experience in the Cinque Terre, so be sure to check the Park’s official website for info. Some trails are recommended for expert hikers, as they can be quite steep and challenging, but if you’re being accompanied by a tour guide most of the alternative paths to the Sentiero dell’Amore will be completely manageable.
Before the inauguration of the Sentiero dell’Amore, directly coasting the sea with a paved path, locals had been walking the upper path from Riomaggiore to Manarola. This is a trekking trail with steep steps that can pose some challenge when wet because of recent rains, so caution is advised and proper gear is recommended.

Cinque Terre Hiking Tours with Stunning Seascape.

Please note that currently some of the paths might be closed until further notice, your guide will offer alternatives.

The Cinque Terre paths are popular for locals and visitors alike. If you love hiking, these amazing paths guarantee a unique experience. We specialize in guided walking tours of some of the most breathtaking paths in Italy. Surrounded by scenic backdrops and captivating imagery, you will learn about the history of Cinque Terre and experience Mother Nature at her finest. From stunning hills to picturesque scenery, our tours are designed to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit.

The Paths of Cinque Terre

Sentiero dell’ Amore – Known as the “Way of Love”, this is an ancient mule track, which emanates from Riomaggiore and cultivates into a renowned romantic walkway. Surrounded by seaside cliffs, the path is not always fit for hiking and strolls. While it does depend on the conditions of the sea, this unique walk offers compelling imagery and overviews of exotic wildlife that inhabit the coastline. Its sandstone geometry also lends to the overall aesthetics and geography. Your walk includes a view of the popular Manarola homes, which overlook the sea and are adjacent to Groppo. This site was once famous for its bridges, and surrounded by residential establishments that are embedded in the rock structures.

Sentiero Azzurro – Known as the “Blue Trail”, this is one of the most popular paths that span the peninsula. The trails are not hard to walk, and the panoramic views are simply breathtaking. As a haven for thousands of hikers and walkers, the historic trail dates back to the middle Ages. The part of the walk that connects the Way of Love, however, was structured in the 20th century. These amazing paths were the only form of communication between coastal inhabitants for centuries. The Blue Trail also entails several mule tracks, and winds through small residential settlements, sanctuaries, and stone walls. While it is possible to walk the entire trail in one day, experiencing the magic of Cinque Terre is best when spread out over a few days.

Cinque Terre Hiking Tours

The classic tour takes places at the National Park of Cinque Terre. Whether for hiking or walking, you should be physical fit and able to enjoy the tour at its fullest. The tour covers the Vernazza-Riomaggiore and continues via train to Monterosso. Participants will also have plenty of time to visit local villages for shopping and souvenirs. The tour departs from Riomaggiore and goes through Via Dell’ Amore on the way to Manarola. We then continue along Sentiero Azzurro on our way to Corniglia for a mouthwatering picnic. The tour then moves onto Vernazza, where you can reach Monterosso via train or other destinations.

What to Wear for Hiking in the Cinque Terre.

Sentierio dell’Amore and Sentiero Azzurro are fairly easy to walk and you can do so with normal comfortable walking shoes. While the paths between the villages in the national park are fairly steep and will require a certain level of fitness and we suggest to wear proper hiking shoes for these paths.

Are the Sentierio dell’Amore and Sentiero Azzurro open?

This pretty much depends on conditions of the weather and sometimes it is necessary to close them due to landslides and other geological conditions as the surrounding are very fragile.

The Beauty of the Five Lands: Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre which means five lands is on the brink of Italian Riviera. It is named after the five small towns of Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, Monterosso and Riomaggiore. It has out of the ordinary scenes that are very architectural and filled with lively colors. These villages are connected by old steps and different hiking trails. Accommodation booking should done early especially during summer.

Monterosso the largest of them all is among the most scenic towns in Italy. It is located on the Ligurian Sea and is the point of departure for 12km hiking path used by adventurers that runs down the Coast of Cinque Terre. This village features various tourist attractions like a cathedral, castle and a sandy beach with a magnificent footpath. One can board a ferry that connects this town to the other four towns.

Corniglia, the smallest of Cinque Terre villages is located in the center of the five villages. It is not adjacent to the sea like the others but is about 100metres high on a cape. Three sides of this town are surrounded by terraces and vineyards while the part that goes down sharply to the sea is the fourth side. You can reach this village by climbing the Lardarina if you love climbing. It has the narrow roads and a terrace through which the other four villages can be seen with two on one side and the other two on the other.

Manarola built at the mouth of river Volastra has very steep narrow alleyways that lead you to the waterfront. It is considered to be the quietest village of all the five and is known for producing olive oil and wine. The distinctive terraces with vines can be viewed from the hilltop. Wine lovers can make a stop at the small museum that is devoted to wine. It has a tiny harbor with blue water formed by a terraced boardwalk. Sit at the piazza if you want to enjoy the atmosphere and have some great seafood.

Riomaggiore the first of the Five Lands lies between two steep hills is characterized by constricted tower-houses. If you want to go to the little beach of Fossola then you can use a set stairs on the south side. Bird watching can be done at botanical gardens of Torre Guardiola. On the lower part is the old castle of Riomaggiore where one can enjoy stunning sights over the sea. The Lovers’ Walk path is a well covered shoreline trail that has stone benches set on the side of the cliff along the way.

Among all the five towns Vernazza is the only one that has a port. It is considered to be the most beautiful Cinque Terre village. It is surrounded by sharp terraced olive groves and a complex layout. While here you can visit Belforte Castle, the cylindrical tower, go hiking through the north-west trail that is 3.5km and you will have to purchase a Cinque Terre Card to access it. At the end of the paths is the open space of haven with a flowing spring. This town can be accessed by local commuter trains. This will enable you to ride alongside cliffs which overlook olive trees and turquoise waters.

Food Experiences near the Cinque Terre.

If you are interested in a food experience around the Cinque Terre you should also check this page about fishing tours in Camogli. For hiking tours in Cinque Terre you can also check out sister site.

Easy Beach-hopping from Cinque Terre

I am sure that everyone has heard of the lovely Italian Riviera, a more commonly-known term used to describe the coast of Liguria, between the Cote d’Azur in France and Tuscany in Italy. This almost crescent-shaped stretch of coastline is possibly the most beautiful in Italy and has been attracting visitors for many years; it is often referred to as the Golfo dei Poeti (gulf of poets) in honour of the many famous poets who have lived here for some part of their lives, such as Byron, Shelley, Hemingway and DH Lawrence. The stretch of coast is backed by the Maritime Alps and the shelter provided by this mountain range means that the Riviera has a very mild micro-climate; in short, it is just perfect for a beach holiday and today I am going to let you into a well-kept secret and tell you about 3 wonderful beaches to visit which are little known to anyone except the locals.

Lerici

If you are holidaying in the area, choose Cinque Terre as your base – a stretch of about 18km of rugged coastline and home to five most beautiful and characteristic pastel villages that just seem to pop out of the sea, tightly hugging the rocky coast. From Cinque Terre, it is easy to reach the wonderful beach at Lerici, just a few kilometres south. Here you will find a long stretch of protected beach, crystal-clear water and a new promenade for enjoyable strolling along the coast line. You can drive to Lerici from Cinque Terre, but in season the parking fills up very quickly; you can also take a ferry from Cinque Terre to Lerici.

Baia Blu

After you have enjoyed the attractions of Lerici, drive North around another impossibly beautiful section of coastline to Blue Bay (Baia Blu) beach “club”. This is a great place to spend a day in the sea and sun, (or in the shade if you prefer – umbrellas available!) There is plenty of parking and although you have to pay an entrance fee and extra for hiring an umbrella or deck chair, you do get access to two lovely rim-flow pools (one for children), the beach, solarium (tanning area off the beach) and there is the opportunity to take swimming, diving and aqua-aerobics classes. There are 300 “sites” with umbrellas and sun beds just waiting for you!

Palmaria Island

For a very different beach experience, be sure to visit Palmaria Island, situated just off the coast and accessed by ferry from Porto Venere. Palmaria Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and although most visitors come to hike around the island, (which you can do in about 2.5hrs) there are some good beaches on the island where you can relax and enjoy the fabulously clear water and the sun and scenery; the most popular beach is Gabbiano Beach where you can enjoy surfing and jet-skiing, in addition to lazing away the day! When you tire of the beach (is that possible?) you can go on a boat trip to see some of the caves on the island or visit some of the many WWII military relics.

Beach hopping tour for your group

We would love to organise your days our around Cinque Terre and pack them with activities such as hiking to the best beaches, beach hopping, gourmet tours and cooking classes along with fishing day out on the boat, just email us and we will have the best itinerary ready for you.

Hidden Secret Spots of The Cinque Terre.

This year go on a holiday of a lifetime and visit the beautiful region of Cinque Terre in Italy. Just to the west of the city of La Spezia, this region of the Italian Rivera is ideal for all; from those looking for a quiet romantic getaway or a luxurious family retreat, this rugged portion of coast has it all.

Lying on the many perfect beaches you can be rest assured that it will be quiet and without the spoils of more populated and well known areas of Europe. There are many spectacular sunbathing and swimming spots dotting along the coast, take time to explore the different hiking and coastal paths and you are sure to find the perfect spot of golden sand and crystal clear sea.

Walking and Hiking.

Hiring a car can be a great option when holidaying in the Cinque Terre as it allows you to see each and every one of the villages and the coastal beauty that lies between them. But also you should considering taking the train as it is a stress free option, a local tourist train takes you to all villages.

One of the most popular routes for those on a romantic break is the aptly named Lovers’ Walk or Via dell’Amore, but there is more if you are up for exploring. Head into Riomaggiore and look for the start of the Blue Trail, or Sentiero Azzurro. A five hour long Cinque Terre hiking route that connects each village, between Riomaggiore and Manarola there is a simple stretch of trial that requires just a leisurely stroll rather than a hard hike. In between the romantic nooks and awe inspiring views you will find some of the best swimming and sunbathing spots, perfect to show off your designer swimwear. If you are interested in walking and hiking experiences in Cinque Terre check our our site dedicated to the area.

The Guvano beach – only if you dare.

Looking for the ultimate in relaxation and sunbathing heaven? Then head to the secret beach. The beach of Guvano, is host to a little known secret amongst the locals – Guvano is a secluded beach between Corniglia and Vernazza. This one is certainly for the more adventurous couples looking for something a bit different – the beach is described as ‘clothing optional’.

Access to this secluded location is gained through a secretive tunnel – you’ll know you are in the right place when you see a crudely painted naked figure above the entrance.

Almost as if you test your resolve to reach then beach you’ll then have to edge your way through a darkened tunnel for about a kilometre – be careful it can get slippery – while the noise of a train going through a nearby tunnel is enough to think the end might be nigh.

Keep on pressing ahead into the darkness despite the impending feeling you may be about to walk straight into a pole, eventually it will open up and you will realise that it has all been worth it as you are greeted by beams of light and leafy green trees.

Be warned a gatekeeper will be sitting nearby and may try and charge you but the beach is free to use but you will have to pay to use the tunnel, so you might want to hand him a tip for letting you through.

After all your troubles you will be greeted by the most idyllic spot for sunbathing (swimwear or not…) and taking in the surroundings. The piercing blue seas lap a pebble grey shore and the water is beautifully warm for a late afternoon swim. The trek down is treacherous so be careful, but you will certainly be rewarded for all your efforts.

The best way to navigate this beautifully diverse area is to talk amongst your fellow travellers so don’t be backwards in coming forwards to converse with your fellow travellers and swap tips when you get there – beforehand, TripAdvisor has an excellent section on the Cinque Terre as well as an informative forum which should help you find out everything you need to know before you leave.

But, you only need one tip – Keep your sunglasses and sun cream at the ready for a holiday to the Cinque Terre in Italy, as the sun sea and sand will be beckoning you wherever you stay in this Mediterranean paradise.

You can also consider to do a day tour from Cinque Terre to Florence, or take a gourmet tour in Parma.

Beautiful alternative to the Cinque Terre: Camogli, santa margherita ligure, Portofino

Come and see with eyes wide open the dramatic natural beauty of this corner of the Italian Riviera overlooking the Ligurian Sea.

The three villages are part of the Natural Marine Reserve of Portofino and the Regional Natural Park of Portofino, an area protected by the region to preserve the extraordinary Promontory and seabed wildlife. Gourmet travellers will enjoy typical products – such as Pesto alla Genovese and Focaccia di Recco – and great Italian wines.

Camogli, in the Paradise Gulf

Camogli is a quaint village by the seaside that you will keep in mind for the first impression you’ll have at your arrival from the sea is about an infinite line of colourful houses built along the port. At a closer look you will find out the meticulous work of trompe-l’oeil and the drawings formed by countless shells on the houses façades.

The holiday resort is known for its old fishing tradition dating back to many centuries ago. If you love seafood, better travel to Camogli on May on the occasion of the Sagra del Pesce (Fish Festival), but you can always dinner at one of the typical restaurants surrounding the harbour to taste local specialities.

If you’re eager for thrilling itineraries, reach the Abbey of San Fruttuoso through the hiking path. Not only you will be rewarded by enchanting views of the sea, but you will also experience a great adventure, walking the trail perched in the mountain.

From Camogli, the village of Recco – where the PGI Focaccia di Recco col formaggio has been producing for years – is not far. You can visit the village or just order this typical Ligurian product in a few shops in Camogli where it is served. Among the basic ingredients there is extra virgin olive oil – the key element of the healthy Mediterranean gastronomy – and no yeast. The result is of a crunchy dough with a mouthwatering filling of cheese.

Pescaturimo – fishing tourism in Italy.

Pescaturismo might be a novel concept for many, but it can be a fun and a very interesting experience for everyone. The activity entails in going out on boats with the local fishermen in Camogli. Sailing at 8 am you will witness how the nets are lifted and help the fishermen to collect their catch. It is an interesting experience to learn where our food comes from. The experience includes a fish meal cooked directly on the boat wit the freshest fish you can ever taste.

Portofino, la Dolce Vita ideal setting

The view of the creek which hosts the fishing village of Portofino and its picturesque harbour is familiar to many for it has become the ideal holiday resort framed in postcards.

Take a stroll in Portofino waterfront to feel its relaxing lifestyle which attracts tourists and celebrities each year, since this is the right place to enjoy “la Dolce Vita”. In Portofino you may have the chance to meet international Jet Set, spot luxury villas and million dollar yachts as this is the destination preferred by VIPs from the fifties to nowadays.

To capture great views of the Tigullio Gulf and the Promontory, have a trip to the Castle Brown – a 16th century fort – and to the St Giorgio church, both situated on the hill.

Santa Margherita Ligure, in the Tigullio Gulf.

Santa Margherita Ligure is the first destination that you can visit if you travel through the highway A12 coming from La Spezia or the last one if you start your journey from Genova.

Anyway, if you wish to get the most out of your holidays in the Italian Riviera, reach Santa Margherita Ligure through a walking path from Portofino. You will have the chance to take scenic photos of the crystalline Ligurian Sea, coves, luxury villas.

It’s the biggest town among the three and offers many opportunities to enjoy its landscape and the seaside. Here you can either do water sports such as diving and windsurf or cruise in the Mediterrnean Sea to do dolphin and whale watching. Apart from excursions in the beautiful surroundings, nature enthusiasts should visit botanical gardens in Santa Margherita Ligure to explore the lush vegetation of hydrangea, camellia and other flower varieties.

Explore the stunning Riviera di Levante characterized by wonderful marina dotted with boats moored to their nice harbour and coloured by the houses reflecting in the water surface. This is the nicest place on heart tucked in between the green mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.

Parma to Cinque Terre – A Day Trip Itinerary

If you are planning your itinerary for your next holiday in north west Italy you should read this short article to get more insight about getting to Cinque Terre from Parma and vice versa.

What to see in Parma.

On the Emilia Delizia’s website there are many articles about the beauty of Parma. You can explore the churches and the theaters of the city in a couple of days and of course you can also plan to take a Parma ham tour or a culatello ham tour around the country side.

How to get to the Cinque Terre from Parma.

The best way it is to take the regional train from Parma main station to La Spezia centrale. Unfortunately these trains are not very fast and it will take a couple of hours to get there, however the service runs at least once per hour. When you are arrive in La Spezia you will need to get the local train to the Cinque Terre. At the station you can buy a cheap ticket that will serve as a day pass and you can visit all the five lands with the same fare. From La Spezia the first of the Cinque Terre is Riomaggiore.
Alternatively you could easily drive from Parma to La Spezia in just one hour by taking the A15 and head south. In busy periods it is not recommended to try to park as close as possible to the Cinque Terre, but leave your car in La Spezia and take the local train instead.

La Spezia – The forgotten gem of Liguria.

Do not leave La Spezia too quickly, often tourists do so just to regret it later. For lunch or dinner time you should not miss a meal at I Pescatori. Head to the port of La Spezia and look for for the Italians queueing in front a kiosk. I Pescatori is the unpretentious restaurant of the local cooperative of fishermen. The food is simply amazing for a ridiculous price and of course the fish just came out of their nets. It is a self service, so do not expect a posh dining experience, but what is served is very good.

Get a Ferry to the Cinque Terre and other stunning locations (Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso).

It makes sense to make La Spezia your home base, there is a lot to see around and you do not need to pay premium prices. The food is good and the town is pretty. From the port you can get ferries to almost any location in the area. If are heading to the Five Lands you can get a panoramic ferry tour from La Spezia port. The boats run regularly and some fares allow you to hop on and off to the desired location.

Portovenere. It should not be missed. The small sea town is included in the UNESCO world heritage. Revellers should take the short hike to Chiesa di San Pietro. A typical religious building with black and white stripes overlooking the steep cliffs of the Gulf of the Poets. The views are simply stunning here.

Riomaggiore to Manarola, The Route of Love.

Riomaggiore is the first of the five lands coming from La Spezia. The initial settlement is built in the XIII century and mostly composed of the Case Torri. Tower houses built by the Genoans. The clever constructions had a military purpose. In fact they were build to protect difficult areas and have a proper view of the sea. With time these buildings become small urban agglomerates and they were made pretty by plastering the stone with cheerful colours.

It is very popular to hike from Riomaggiore to Manarola by using the Via dell’ Amore, of course you can use the train instead. The ticket for the picturesque trail costs at the time of writing 5 euros. Via dell’Amore is part of a longer hike that connects all 5 lands. The Route of Love is well maintained and it is very easy to walk, making a favourite for the tourists and visitors alike. Don’t forget to add some beaches and sunbathing in the area.

The Food of the Cinque Terre.

The food in Liguria is based on the Mediterranean diet. So a lot of pasta, chickpeas, fish, fresh vegetable, olive oil and good wine. The most iconic dishes of the area are: focaccia, pesto, sfarinata, and a long array of fish dishes. Sfarinata is made using chickpeas and oilve oil. The chickpea flour is mixed with water and turned into a runny compound, then poured into a metal dish which has been previously oiled. The whole preparation is then baked in the oven. The result is a moist and tasty omelette like consistency that can be eaten on its own or even inside the focaccia.
Another dish that you will repeatedly see in the area are the muscoli (mussels) that are cooked in so many way. another one is frittura mista, a mixture of white fishes, prawns, and squids that are lightly floured and then fried in olive oil.

Food tours and gourmet holidays in the Cinque Terre.

Emilia Delizia organises gourmet holidays for you and your group in the area. Activities would include cookery classes, wine tastings, accommodation packages, chauffeured transfers from and to Parma. We also would be happy to organise hiking and boat tours from La Spezia or from any of the Cinque terre, including Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso.

Food and Wine Tours in Cinque Terre.

It is possible to visit olive oil and wine farms in the area, as well as fish canneries can explored nearby. For parties interested in olive oil farming is best to come in the late autumn as it is the olive harvest times. We would be glad to organise olive picking and grape picking activities for you. And do not forget that hiking the trails is one of the main activities to do around the Cinque Terre.