Okay, we had our hearts set on going to the CT, and may still do that. But with that being said, I'm curious if there is anything similar in a close proximity to CT? I'm talking specifically about hiking trails from town to town with old-world charm (which seems like it may be getting lost with the crowds in CT.) Does anyone have any ideas for something similar?
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
You might consider Lake Como. A quick google search for "hiking lake como" turned up all sorts of interesting stuff, including this: http://www.lakecomopages.com/things2do/activities/walking.html
Posted by
San Francisco
52 posts
We have been considering the Portofino to San Fruttouso to Camogli hikes when we're in Italy next spring. Some are a bit more demanding than others. We did it by ferry boat in 2007 as there wasn't enough time to hike it all because we were on a cruise ship with limited port time. Camogli is a beautiful town! Ummm focaccia al formagio! http://www.parcoportofino.it/pageLingua.aspx?lang=en&codice=0000000090 http://www.apathtolunch.com/2011/05/portofino-hike-camogli-to-san-fruttuoso.html http://www.beautiful-liguria.org/2010/05/fascinating-path-from-san-rocco-di.html
Posted by
Napa, CA
3580 posts
Some people in our tour group hiked a trail from Santa Margherita to Portofino one year. Be sure to check on the condition of the trail(s) before going. Many of the
trails along the coast may have been equally disrupted by rockfalls and rainstorms. There are books on hiking in Italy. See if you can find one and check out what's available.
Posted by
Centennial, CO, US
2126 posts
Another vote for Lake Como. It's close enough to Milan that you could take the train there the night you arrive, and put off renting the car for a day or two.
Posted by
Austin, TX
48 posts
I don't think Riomaggiore, Corniglia, and Manarola were affected by the storms. You could hike up to Volastra high in the hills between Corniglia and Manarola, or do the long hike from Riomaggiore to Portovenere and then take a boat back.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32209 posts
Billie, As you had your "hearts set" on going to the CT, I'd continue planning on that basis. Depending on when you'll be travelling there, I'm sure that you'll be able to stay in one of the villages. You might also consider Levanto, as it's very close to the CT (only a few minutes by train from Monterossso). That would provide you with easy access to the CT and the trails. It's also a very convenient location for day trips to Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. Cheers!
Posted by
Boulder, CO, USA
719 posts
Hi Billie,
I'd still head to the CT. While Vernazza is wiped out, they are rebuilding, as is Monterosso al Mare. The first 3 towns were relatively unaffected by the storms, so they should be fine. Believe me, that region needs your tourism! Given the devastation, the crowds should be minimal, so you could have an experience in some of towns similar to 20 years ago! I'd definitely go, hike on through Vernazza if you're there before they're up and running again, or buy some wine and anchovies (seriously) if you can stop. It will be worth it.