Italy

Cinque Terre – 4 nights, 5 days Hiking
Enter the magical land of the Cinque Terre, five unique fishing villages along the Ligurian coast, known as Italy’s “flower-Riviera”. These secluded villages are best reached by train or foot, as car access is limited. This walking tour along the coastal footpaths offers striking views of lush Mediterranean vineyards and wild flowers abloom; while further inland there are tantalizing pine and chestnut forests. Travel by train of boat from Monterosso to picturesque villages where you can savor the delicious local cuisine and relax with a glass of white wine in an outdoor café overlooking the sea. The Cinque Terre are sure to please the palette of every visitor.

Trip Highlights:

  • The five illustrious villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Cornilia, Manarola and Riomaggiore
  • Breathtaking views of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea
  • Steep terraced hills of olive groves, vineyards and lemon trees
  • Mouthwatering seafood and the famous Trofie al Pesto
  • Fabulous beaches for swimming

Day 1 – Arrive in Monterosso
As soon as you get settled in your accommodation, step outside and breathe in the incredibly fresh, crisp air of the Mediterranean Sea. In the afternoon you can visit the historic center, and in the evening, let all your senses be delighted as you prepare for your phenomenal walking adventure ahead.
Challenge: travel to Monterosso

Day 2 – La Via dell’Amore walk
This classic Cinque Terre walk offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and terraced hills of vineyards. Marvel at the multicolored mosaic of these five picturesque villages overlooking the sea. Though the path gets crowded from Riomaggiore to Corniglia, the tourists subside as you climb and reach serene beauty up high. The day’s walk can be divided into four separate stretches as you can catch the train at any of the villages.
Challenge: 13.9 km, 940m climb, 950m descent, 7 hours villages along the way: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore
Day 3 – Walk from Monterosso to Levanto
Follow the coastline from Monterosso to the idyllic painter’s paradise of Levanto, located in the center of a charming valley surrounded by green hills and uncontaminated nature. Along the way, pass the Promontory of Mesco, a lookout point where you can visit the ruins of the Chapel of San Antonio Semaforo. Glance out over the crystal clean waters and take in the essence of Liguria
Challenge: 7 km, 400m climb, 400m decent, 3 hours villages along the way: Monterosso, Levanto and Bonassola
Day 4 – Walk from Riomaggiore to Portovenere
The writers Shelly and Byron got inspired from visiting the Cinque Terre. Get inspired on this climb, complete with truly spectacular views of the charming, picturesque coast. Begin in Riomaggiore and walk through deciduous forests along a path which leads you to the invigorating panorama of the Gulf of La Spezia and nearby islands. Descend to Portovenere along charismatic, occasionally steep footpaths.
Challenge: 12.1 km, 710m climb, 730m descent, 6 hours villages along the way: Riomaggiore & Portovenere
Day 5 – Arrivederci Cinque Terre!
The trip ends after breakfast. You can depart Bonassola by train and easily reach Pisa, Genoa, Florence or Milan airports.

Included:
• 3 night accommodation on B&B basis (2 in Monterosso and 1 in Bonassola
• 1 night on half board in Bonassola (drinks excluded) the first night in Bonassola
• Luggage transfer from Monterosso to Bonassola or Vice versa
• Cinque Terre 3 day National Park card
• 24-hour telephone assistance, just a phone call away
• Detailed road book and maps in English

Not Included:
• Flights and public transportation
• Travel insurance
• Admissions and entrance fees of any kind
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, phone calls, extra transfers etc.
• Any items that have not been specifically mentioned in the program
Optional Services:
• Airport arrival and/or departure transfers
• Guided tour of Genoa with a local city guide

Prices 2010 per person
1 person travelling alone – Euro 695,00
2 in double room – Euro 475,00
3 in triple room – Euro 425,00