Cinque Terre

I recommend Vernazza.

We're also going in May and are in about the same age range. I chose Monterosso as it was more flat, and we're staying in LaSpiaggia (www.laspiaggiahotel.com) in New Town with a sea view. I also liked Manuel's Guesthouse in Old Town in Monterosso, but I thought the walk uphill might be too much for my sister. Great views, though!

Of course each "land" is different, and Vernazza is lovely. The last time were were there we stayed in Monterossa (and just used the trains and trails to get about to the others). We stayed at the very nice at La Villa degli Argentieri, Via Fegina 120-122 19016 - Monterosso al Mare, IT , phone: +39-0187-818516... which was a bit expensive.

We stayed in Vernazza, at the Albergo Barbara, and had room with a terrific view of the harbor for 50 euros a night, and our shared bath was only shared with one other room. Since it's on the top floor and there's no elevator, you can get all your hiking done just getting to your room! http://www.albergobarbara.it/index.html

I loved staying in Vernazza! I rented a room, that turned out to be wonderful, it did require going up some steps to get there but not too many. I stayed at A Ca' DA NONNA. http://www.acadanonna.com/Eng/RoomsEng.htm.

Does anyone know how often and when the earliest and latest trains between towns run? I too will be in CT in May.

Lisa If you go to the FAQ at the top of the section we are in you will see that you click through to geting train information. I just did that and found that the first train is around 5 am and last around midnight, based on tomorrow. Use the link and it will give you all the train answers, throughout Europe.

Nigel,
Thanks. It looks like the trains run every 1 1/4 hour. It is not very obvious how to find that link.

I think Vernazza is the quaintest of the group. Five nights might get a little too quiet. Monterosso has a little bit of actual beach, shopping and less climbing.