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Why The Cinque Terre In Italy Should Be Your Next Trip
Once a coastline of sleepy fishing villages, the Cinque Terre, or "Five Lands," has become a popular destination for tourism over the recent years. What makes this Italian destination different from most tourist hot spots, however, is that it has somehow managed to retain its old-world charm and simple style.Located in the Liguria region of Italy, the five towns that compose the Cinque Terre include Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The area hasn't succumbed to the corporate world, as terraced hills of colorful buildings and small shops allow visitors to experience real life on the Italian Riviera. Moreover, the area is well known for its grapes, olives and pesto, which have unique flavors due to the mild, warm climate and shelter from winds by nearby mountains. Hiking from town to town is a popular activity, and a great way to experience each area while seeing as much as possible.
In October 2011, the towns of Vernazza and Monterosso experienced devastating floods, burying the cities under 10 feet of mud and leaving the people without water or electricity. Locals have been working feverishly to get the area back to its original state, and have done an excellent job of staying on schedule with the rebuilding. One great way to experience the beauty of the Italian Riviera is to stay in the towns of Vernazza and Monterosso. There, you can drink Ligurian wine, enjoy the cuisine and immerse yourself in the towns' traditional cultures. It's a unique time to go, as there is a feeling of renewed joy in the air. Moreover, you'll be one of the first to experience the old town with its new vitality.
For a more visual idea of the Cinque Terre, check out the gallery below.
Gallery: Exploring The Five Lands Of The "Cinque Terre"
[Images via Big Stock]
Filed under: Activism, Arts and Culture, Hiking, Learning, Food and Drink, Photos, Stories, Europe, Italy
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
The Blonde Jul 30th 2012 3:42PM
This area is wonderful! My sister (Brunette) and I hiked the trail a couple years ago and have a funny post about it on our travel blog:
http://blondebrunettetravel.com/2012/07/08/find-your-crotch-in-cinque-terre-blonde-did/
If you plan to hike do it the first day the weather permits because that could end up being your only chance. We stayed in Monterosso and began the hike from the other end of the trail by taking the train there. When you're done with the hike you want to be "home" not at the other end. Walking poles would be great for doing this trail.
cher Aug 2nd 2012 8:22AM
I went there 4 years ago and hiked the trail. It was a great hike and took us a while to climb. Bring hiking boots or shoes if you are going to do this. I didn't think it would be so ruff and did it in sandals which I had to throw away after the hike. I felt like I went back in time when I was staying there. They had a cabinet in the middle of the square with the fish of the day to pick from. They had the biggest lemons I have seen. They are also noted for their anchovies. There are signature dishes at every restaurant. I ate them but still am not a big fan. The pesto was really good and we ate at one restaurant and asked for another suggestion for the next nite and they said to go to the one on the top of the hill because they were making fresh pesto the next day. Because of the lemons they had lemoncello, drank a bit everyday. Truly a great experience!
K Aug 2nd 2012 8:53AM
Our family hiked Cinque Terre in late June (2012.) I would recommend this to anyone who wants a great scenic hike and time outdoors away from the Italian cities. The views, the people, the food, the towns - were so special. The recently restored trails are a bit challenging in some areas. Although many visitors travel by train into each town, I suggest hiking. The experience was unique!
jeff Aug 2nd 2012 4:09PM
If you can possibly spare the time, Cinque Terre is worth two days. If you are staging overnight, for Cinque Terra the next day, a short trip over the mountain is La Spezia. Mega yachts, reasonably priced restaurants and hotels line the waterfront, which is accessed by quaint, winding roads through hillside communities. Walk the Via Amore out of Rio Maggiore one way, or as far as you can, then take the train for a few dollars per day. There are lots of little shops, but interestingly, very little commercialism. If you forget your best hiking footwear or camera, don't give it a second thought, go back and get them.