Cinqueterre

Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Monterosso and Vernazza are the villages suspended between sea and land that give life to the Cinque Terre . These villages are part of a National Park. Furthermore, since 1997 they have been a World Heritage Site protected by Unesco . Not just sea for the Cinque Terre. In fact, the hinterland hides beautiful medieval villages, characteristic sanctuaries, artisan shops and typical dishes to be tasted.

• The Way of the Sanctuaries:

Each village of the Cinque Terre has its own sanctuary suspended between the sea and the sky . These are places that draw a kind of natural Via Crucis . These are performed every year on the occasion of sacred rites. There are five main sanctuaries that dominate the Cinque Terre villages. The road that leads and connects these places of worship is ideal for trekking enthusiasts with its somewhat winding avenues.

• Manarola:

it is a truly suggestive village. Here are the typical Genoese colored houses with the roof terrace that become one with the landscape. There is also a rocky spur overlooking the sea. The entire coastal area is characterized by hills of olive trees and grape plantations . Manarola is also famous for its wine. It is one of the finest in Liguria, called Sciacchetrà .

• Monterosso:

defined by Eugenio Montale as a ” rocky and austere town, asylum for fishermen and farmers “, Monterosso still maintains its long tradition of fishermen intact today. In the historic center of the city, the church of San Giovanni Battista stands out. Unlike the other villages that make up the Cinque Terre, there are beaches in Monterosso . The most famous is the Fegina beach. Here it is possible to admire the Art Nouveau villa of the Montale family , as well as take wonderful baths.

• Vernazza:

considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy . Vernazza preserves its long maritime tradition intact. The latter has seen important leaders and sailors pass by. There are numerous monuments: the church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia, the 11th century watchtower, the Doria Castle, the Tower of the Convent of the Reformed Fathers of San Francesco and the Belforte. A territory that has always inspired artists and writers, the Cinque Terre still have a lot to offer:

• The Way of Love :

the Via dell’Amore is part of the Blue Path. This path links all the villages of the Cinque Terre. In particular, this path of about 1 kilometer is very suggestive and romantic . It takes its name from the writing that an anonymous local resident wrote on a wall at the beginning of the path on the side of Riomaggiore. The Way of Love represents one of the most important tourist attractions of Liguria. It is also an integral part of the area declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO . (click here to discover a splendid itinerary)

• Campiglia :

is a fraction of the municipality of La Spezia. Close to the territory forming part of the Cinque Terre National Park. It offers panoramic views that go beyond the eastern area of the gulf, up to the Apuan Alps . It preserves archaeological remains in the neighboring town of Castellana. An element of artistic value in the village is the church of Santa Caterina, patron saint of the town, located in the main square.

• Red Path :

also known as the Alta Via of the Cinque Terre. The path starts from Porto Venere and arrives in Levanto in 40 km of ups and downs in the mountains, but always looking at the sea. (click here to reveal a fantastic tour)

• Portovenere :

the entrance to the heart of the historic center is marked by the Tower or the Porta del Borgo. Once through the door, it is possible to walk along a series of streets that lead up steeply to the Doria castle. Famous is the beautiful church of San Pietro which impresses not only for the unusual architecture , but also for the position. In fact, it is built on the rock and also has a small terrace from which you can look at the sea and the end of the Palmaria island. You can admire the beauties just described, in our GO IN ITALY programming – click here to discover it