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Back to the Cinque Terre?

Posted by (Slidell, LA) on

In 2007 I took my wife and mother-in-law to Rome, Tuscany and the CT as a gift to them and fell in love with the place. Being the planner (thanks to this site), organizer, financier, pack mule, security guard and tour guide, I didn't have much time to see and do some of the things that I planned to do for myself. On day three of that 12-day trip I decided I wanted to come back and do part of it over, especially hiking the trails of the CT from one end to the other and another climb to the top of the Duomo. I haven't planned anything like this for three years and wanted to ask for advice, direction and any concerns about making this trip alone, and what if anything has changed in Florence, Sienna and the CT over that time. I learned so much from all of you the last time and would really appreciate anything you would be willing to share as I try to put together another trip. I'm in good health right now and want to do this before that could change and I wouldn't be able physically do it. Right now I'm looking at early to mid-October for about eight days, allowing two of them for flights to and from the US. Cost is not a concern. Many thanks.

Jim

Posted by
17442 posts

hi Jim---I can't answer about what has changed in 3 yrars as we just returned from our first trip to Cinque Terre. we loved it more than I expected and could have used more time. it was too hot to hike end to end in one day, but October may be better.

we also loved climbing the Duomo and I'm glad we did it in the morning when we had the stairs almost to ourselves and could climb at our own speed (fast). I couldn't face being in a line there.

Posted by
88 posts

Jim, If you are in good health you should have no problems. My thought would be give yourself a little more time there. I was there for 21 days, took my time and a lot wasn't planned. Just wondered around and enjoyed what I saw. As I said on my earlier report, I went last year with a friend, it was a desaster! This year my family was a little concerned about me going alone. You have to feel confident and as you said see the things that you missed. That is what I did and wouldn't have changed a thing. I turned 68 in June before going, and didn't know if I really could do all that I wanted, but did Rome (5), Orvieto (1), Assisi (2), Florence (7), Volterra (4), Florence (2), and all by train or bus with most of the time 2 suit cases! I am thinking about going again next year. Oh, also went to Bocelli concerts out in his hometown, country side, lots of walking! Let me know if you need any specifics. Naomi

Posted by
1449 posts

If hiking is a main goal then you might want to give yourself a few extra days in CT to allow for weather. I'd be concerned about rain in October, and with a few extra days you increase the chances of 2-3 good days for hiking. On the other days (good weather or not) you can do day trips by train.

Posted by
570 posts

Thank you all for the info and encouragement. Naomi, did you ever feel any concern for your safety traveling alone, either out and about or in restaurants, clubs, etc. I've decided to make the trip and want to get the most out of it. Also hadn't thought about the weather in the CT. I now remember that when we were there the first day had rain and winds of 60 MPH off the Med and the next day it was calm and 20 degrees warmer. Again, thank you.

Jim

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