Welcome to the Ligurian Coast — the jewel of the Mediterranean! Become entranced by the seductive charms of this stunning coastline. Feel the heat of the sun as you walk through terraced citrus orchards and vineyards high-above the sparkling blue waters of the sea. Breathe the aroma of freshly baked foccaccia while meandering the cobbled streets of tiny cliffside villages. Embrace the contrast between Santa Margherita’s stately villas and chic boutiques with the tranquility of Mediterranean oak forests teaming with butterflies, birds and wild flowers. Delight your palate each night with traditional pastas and fresh seafood while sipping a crisp Ligurian white. Discover this most exquisite.
Santa Margherita Ligure, Metropolitan City of Genoa, Italy
Day 1+2
Monterosso al Mare, SP, Italy
Day 3+4
Riomaggiore, SP, Italy
Day 5
Porto Venere, SP, Italy
Day 6
Lerici, SP, Italy
Day 7+8+9
| Start any date from April to November |
|---|
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity Level3 to 6 hours of hiking each day
TerrainHard climbs on most of the days
CostClassic Accommodation: US $3,275
Single Supplement: US $820
Luxe Accommodation: US $3,905
Single Supplement: US $980
| Destination | Italy |
|---|---|
| Level | Moderate |
Getting There
You start in Santa Margherita.
The closest airports are in Genoa, Milan and Pisa. All of these are international airports with flights from European capitals as well as from Rome.
Your information package will provide information about getting to the tour start.
Santa Margherita
Arrive in Santa Margherita a beautiful seaside town with palm-lined harbour and boulevards. Spend some time getting acclimatized by exploring the many sites in town – the Villa Durazzo, the churches and the many shops. Perhaps go for a short warm-up walk to Portofino.
Santa Margherita
Dramatic landscapes is the watchword of the day as you explore the protected area of Parco di Portofino (location of some of the best hiking in Italy!). Your route follows the contour of the peninsula, beginning in Camogli and heading toward the sanctuary in San Rocco. Stop for lunch in the small village of San Fruttuoso – accessible only on foot or by boat, ending the day in the elite resort town of Portofino, before heading back to Santa Margherita.
Walking Distance: 18 km, elevation gain 755 m or shortcut, gain 530 m.* (4.5 hours)
Monterosso
A short train ride will take you to the trailhead for your walk to the Cinque Terre region. Beginning in the village of Framura follow the path past a 15th century guard tower and a delightful Romanesque chapelle, through the picturesque village of Bonassola – famous in antiquity for its baths (perhaps stop in for a dip). Another day of stellar views and sensational walking. Night in Monterosso.
Walking Distance: 12 km, elevation gain 520 m.* (3.5 hours)
Monterosso
Explore the hills above Monterosso today – stopping in at the Sanctuary of Sovoire and at the top of Colla Bagari for great views. You’ll also have time to explore the historic sites in Monterosso—like the 13th century church of St. John and the castle ruins. Night in Monterosso.
Walking Distance: 11 km, elevation gain 650 m.* (4.5 hours)
Riomaggiore
The classic Cinque Terre walking trail awaits you today. Begin in Monterosso, the northernmost of the five famous perched villages and make your way to the southernmost – Riomaggiore. See for yourself what makes this region so famous! Be sure to stop in at one or more of the enotecas that can be found in these villages, to sample some local fare. Night in Riomaggiore.
Walking Distance: 13 km, elevation gain 550 m.* (4.5 hours)
In the event that the coastal trail (Senturo Azzuro #2) between Vernazza and Riomaggiore is closed, an alternative is to walk Senturo #2 Monterossa to Vernazza , take the train to Corniglia (4 minutes, one stop), then alternate trails from Corniglia to Riomaggiore.
Walking Distance: 14 km, elevation gain 1160 m.*
Portovenere
Start your day in Riomaggiore and walk the last section of trail in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Cinque Terre. Your destination is the charming village of Portovenere. Night in Portovenere.
Walking Distance: 15 km, elevation gain 680 m.* (5.5 hours)
Lerici
Today is an island walk around Isola Palmaria, a short ferry from Portovenere. An island noted for its natural beauty, the scent of sage, myrtle, broom, acacias and strawberry-trees will follow you all day long. On this walk you will encounter panoramic views, evocative grottoes, and remnants of a ferocious past. Night in Lerici.
Walking Distance: 11 km, elevation gain 305 m.* (3 hours)
Lerici
Explore the area along the coast of the Golfo dei Poeti – so named because this was the area that Byron , Shelley, Sand, and others, came to be inspired. Your walk will take you to the old European seaside village of Tellaro. Spend some time at one of the many beaches along your route, before returning to Lerici.
Walking Distance: 11 km, elevation gain 680 m.* (4.75 hrs)
Lerici
Enjoy a final stroll around Lerici, before heading off on your next adventure.
*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.
This inn represents everything we like in a hotel. Intimate, charming, distinctive with superb service and a casual elegance that finds just the right balance. This hotel should be given an extra star to add to the 3 they have.
Family owned and operated, this 3-star hotel offers a warm welcome and excellent service. The hotel is located in the historic centre of Monterosso al Mare within easy reach of the beach, the small port and the walking trails that connect the five villages of the Cinque Terre.
The Locanda del Sole is the most modern hotel in Riomaggiore. It is located on a hill just on the edge of town, near the hiking trail. Rooms are bright and spacious with large windows. They serve a wonderful homemade breakfast each morning.
Situated directly on the sea, this 3-star hotel dates from the 19th century and has been completely renovated. All rooms have sea views so you're guaranteed a room with a great view!
Overlooking the Gulf of Poets, and just 2 minutes from the historical center of Lerici, this 3-star hotel has earned accolades for service. Breakfast is served on the terrace with a view of the harbour.
This inn represents everything we like in a hotel. Intimate, charming, distinctive with superb service. and a casual elegance that finds just the right balance. This hotel should be given an extra star to add to the 3 they have.
This 4 star is one of the most beautiful hotels in the Cinque Terre and is located only 200 meters from the historic centre of Monterosso. Its extraordinary position on the Mediterranean sea offers a relaxing oasis and the rooms are furnished with beautiful antique pieces.
The Locanda del Sole is the most modern hotel in Riomaggiore. It is located on a hill just on the edge of town, near the hiking trail. Rooms are bright and spacious with a large window. They serves a wonderful homemade breakfast each morning.
Grand Hotel Portovenere 5-star hotel overlooks the marina and the historic center of Porto Venere. Once upon a time, this historic building hosted the Convent of Saint Francis. Palmaria Restaurant, with its scenic terrace overlooking the sea, pays homage not only to the flavors of the Italian Riviera but also to many of Italy’s most beloved dishes.
Overlooking the Gulf of Poets, and just 2 minutes from the historical center of Lerici, this 3-star hotel has earned accolades for service. Breakfast is served on the terrace with a view of the harbour. Alternate: Grand Hotel Europa, owned and managed by the same family, is also available (no sur-charge).
Tour Reviews
“I loved the additional information. You were very clear in your instructions. I was looking for a company that would arrange for luggage to moved between the Cinque Terre Village. You did that and we did not look for other agencies. I loved the attention to detail and the customer service I received before and after the trip.”
“All I can say is “awesome”! The accommodation was unique, comfortable, and appropriate for each area.”
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