I've been researching the Cinque Terra trails and it looks like only one will be open in June when we are there and that there is a lot of damage still. We were so looking forward to this hiking and beautiful views that this part of our Italy travels had. We are thinking of replacing the two days we were going to spend here with going to the Lake Como area. Is this a good trade off? Should we still go to the Cinque Terra? Anywhere else in Italy that would match what we wanted with the Cinque Terra? Thanks!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32402 posts
Amy, I'd suggest continuing with your visit to the Cinque Terre. Although the Monterosso to Vernazza segment is the only one currently open of the No. 2 trails, it's expected that at least one of the others may re-open in the near future. It's also important to remember that there's an extensive network of other trails in the area, so if you want to hike there will be ample opportunities to do so. There are several ways to enjoy the Cinque Terre. You could (for example) hike whichever trails are open and use the local trains for the other segments. When you reach the end town (either Riomaggiore or Monterosso), take the boat back to your starting point. Seeing the towns from the water provides a great perspective of the area. Lago di Como is also beautiful and well worth seeing, but it's a somewhat different "holiday experience" from the Cinque Terre. I've found that's a great area to "rest and recuperate" and enjoy Il Dolce Far Niente (along with some great Gelato) while admiring the boats going back and forth on the lake. Happy travels!
Posted by
New York, NY, 10025
392 posts
A friend of mine who lives in Genoa is currently with some visiting friends in the CT, and her pictures on Facebook look great. If that's where you want to go, then by all means, go!
Posted by
OP
Laie, HI, United States
4 posts
Thanks guys! I was worried that the actual villages weren't as spectaclar since the land and rock slides. This made me feel a whole lot better. I'm so excited! Any other tips are totally welcome.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32402 posts
Amy, It's important to remember that the horrific slides occurred in October 2011 and only affected two of the five villages. I can assure you that those two have recovered and all of the five towns still offer the same wonderful ambience for visitors (and of course some great food!). Buon Viaggio!
Posted by
Kingsburg, California, USA
137 posts
Amy, take the Cinque Terra! The trail from Monterossa to Vernaza is fantastic. My wife and I (we're 57 and 60) hiked it last summer. It took us a few hours (I had a bum knee and bad ankle) but the views are unrivaled! Take the boat from La Spezia to Monterossa, hike south to Vernazza, train to Manarola then walk south to Riomaggiore. Unforgetable!