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.

Reaching Riomaggiore by car and walking.

Pastel colour houeses in Riomaggiore Waterfront.

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!

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.

Guvano beach ideal swimming spot in Cinque Terre — naturist beach – Guvano – source

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.