Cinque Terre Update-Landslide

Will you have luggage that you can carry? Most likely you will encounter steps. The walking part doesn't sound too bad to me, but that also depends on the time you arrive in town. If it's night time, the walking wouldn't be fun, and it could be a bit harder to find the hotel. Are you in good shape? the walk after flying all day/night would be refreshing in my mind, and a fun adventure. If you are good with directions, and don't mind asking for help, I don't see a big issue walking. 15 minutes (if accurate) shouldn't be a big deal. Most important is if you can carry your luggage if necessary. The walk should be a good introduction to Monterosso!

Karen, I was aware of the landslide but didn't mention it as I had the impression the problems would be corrected relatively quickly. Access through the tunnel for foot traffic was restored last Thursday, a week after the slide. Which option to choose will probably depend how tired you are. Here are a few thoughts on both options..... > Walking - the walk from the station is not difficult. The first part is fairly level so if you're using rolling luggage it shouldn't be too strenuous. As mentioned in the note, the last part is a bit steep (but not difficult if you take your time). After going through the tunnel, turn left and walk up Via Roma past Ciak Restaurant (on the left) and L'Alta Marea (on the right). Part of the walk may be over wooden planking and eventually you'll come to a gate. Turn left at the gate and go uphill (this is the steepest part). You'll walk under an apartment building and will see Villa Steno straight ahead. Access will be MUCH easier after you've checked-in and have a card key, as you can take the stairs down through the garden. > Taxi - If you decide to use a Taxi, calling ahead would be a good idea. When you arrive at the station, you'll have to leave the new town of Monterosso and travel uphill and around the town, ending up eventually at the same gate I mentioned above. The trip will take about 20 minutes. One point to note is that even if there was vehicle access through the tunnel, the Taxi would still only be able to take you to the bottom of Via Roma, so you'd still have to walk part way to the Hotel. Following the floods of Oct. 2011, only "special" vehicles are allowed to drive up Via Roma (such as the APE delivery vehicles). I routinely walk to the station with 40-50 lbs. of kit on my back, so it's not difficult. Hsppy travels!

Thanks,
We'll each have a carry-on roller bag, and small day packs, but I'm thinking I'll do the best of both, have the Cab driver take our luggage and meet him near the hotel, and we'll walk to get the fresh air, without having to haul the luggage.

Karen, That method should also work fine, however I'd suggest sending an E-mail to the hotel. Tell them what you're planning to do, and ask if they have any suggestions. If you have a Taxi transport your luggage, it will take about 20 minutes and will likely be a bit pricey. As I recall, there is a baggage service in Monterosso (possibly connected to the hotel) and that might be a cheaper option. I'm sure you'll really enjoy your stay at Villa Steno. Hopefully they still offer a complimentary glass of Prosecco, which you can enjoy on the balcony on your arrival day while enjoying the amazing views. Cheers!

Ken,
Thanks, I've already contacted the hotel and asked about the taxi taking our luggage.