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Cinque Terre

Going to Italy in May & was wondering just how hard the most difficult trail is. Is it rocky, steep, along cliff???

Posted by
1056 posts

I have been to Cinque Terre a couple of times and hiked the trails, but not since the floods of a couple years ago. I understand that portions of the trail were impacted. Some of the trails are steep, but not for long distances, and there are a couple of places where you are hiking along unfenced cliff areas. Mostly there are stairs, lots of them, where the trail climbs. Some of those stairs are cement, but most consist of rocky ledges. While I saw many people hiking with inappropriate footwear (flip flops and sandals), I would recommend that you wear something much sturdier. We did fine with typical athletic shoes.

Posted by
11247 posts

In my opinion, Trail #2 is tough. I am a hiker, wear good Salomen hiking shoes and use a hiking stick, but I did not like #2: it is too crowded and when people are in the conga-line there it becomes a chore to hike. We like the higher trails. Ask at the Explore Store in Manarola for recommendations that are suitable for you. You can even take a shuttle bus up in a couple of towns and start a different path without having to climb the whole way.

Posted by
32171 posts

Kathy,

I assume you're asking about the Sentiero Azzurro trails, which are most popular with the majority of people visiting the Cinque Terre. The most challenging trail is the segment from Monterosso to Vernazza. It's not overly difficult but there's a considerable climb at the Monterosso end. After that it's relatively easy although there are some narrow sections, which again aren't difficult but require some caution. There's also somewhat of a descent going into Vernazza, but I've never found that too difficult.

The next segment from Vernazza to Corniglia is almost as challenging but not quite as strenuous. The segment from Corniglia to Manarola hasn't been open for a few years so I'm not sure what shape it's in, but as I recall it's fairly easy. The final segment from Manarola to Corniglia (the famous Via dell' Amore) is mostly flat and paved so it's more a stroll than a hike. It's also been closed since September 2012 following a serious rock slide, so hopefully it will be open again this year.

One important point to mention is that each segment of the trails may be closed at different times during the year due to storm damage. You'll have to check the official park website prior to your trip (or ask the staff at your hotel when you arrive) to determine the current status.

One other point is that you'll need a Park Pass to hike those trails. You can buy those either at local rail stations or at the small wooden huts at the end of each of the trails.

Posted by
83 posts

I walked Vernazza to Monterosso with daughter and husband in July. The thought of the beach ahead kept me going!!

The trail was officially closed when we started... There were huge thunderstorms earlier that morning. ( I have never heard such loud thunder!) We started out just "to see" if it was ok to walk. They did open the trail later.

It was vigorous, exciting, exhausting, and absolutely amazing. The terrain and the views change with every turn. (I would consider myself in "average " shape.)

Do it!

Peg