hiking Cinque Terre

I would go hike Monterosso and Vernazza. Vernazza has a nice beach to go swiming after the hike. The waterfront is full of things to do.

Beverly,

On that particular segment, I don't think it matters which end you start from. You'll be climbing somewhat at the beginning on both ends, and going downhill on the other end. That particular segment is the most challenging of the CT trails. I'd suggest taking the train to the village you're NOT staying at, and hike "home". That way when you arrive, you'll be able to go to your room and rest, or have a "cool one".

Note that you'll need a Pass to hike the trails (be sure to validate this before first use). There ARE people in small wooden booths at the entry and exit of each trail, and they DO check for Passes.

Happy travels!

Beverly: May I suggest that it is worth starting the hike in Monterosso--because the view looking down at Vernazza harbor, as you approach it from the northwest (coming from Monterosso) is jaw-dropping. You might think you could get the same view by starting in Vernazza and stopping and looking back over your shoulder, but why? The view is much more dramatic when approached from Monterosso, first you see the view from high up and then it gets closer and closer as you near Vernazza! It's one of the classic views of the CT. Take the train to Monterosso and begin the hike from there. The hike is 4km/2.5mi with 190meters/600ft of elevation gain and loss, you start at sea level and end at sea level, of course.

Beverly, I've hiked from Monterosso to Vernazza. Spectacular views!! Then instead of taking the train back we took the boat, which leaves right from the harbor in Vernazza. It wasn't too expensive, although I'm sure the train is cheaper.

As for the trail pass, we came upon the wooden booth and they sold us one on the spot.

Since you have experience hiking, I'd suggest doing it both ways. Josh.

Josh,

why would you suggest doing one hike both ways instead of adding a second different hike? We are also planning to do some hiking with our kids (10 and 12) in the area and are wondering which one(s) to choose). We only have one full day for hiking and are planning to use the train and boat to get us in and out of CT as we are staying in a hotel in La Spezia.

Ditto to Kent's comments - if you're Colorado hikers, the trail isn't going to be much different than what you'd do in a typical weekend (like me in Oregon). Take it easy, take water, take breaks (for rest and also scenery absorption), watch out for the steep drop offs in some spots. If it's raining or has rained, some spots are slippery. The Monterosso - Vernazza direction is really spectacular (and even if you went the other way, you'd still be fine). The entire trail is only 7 miles, so if your son is used to longer hikes, you can make a great day of it. Every town has gelato (motivation!), and taking the ferry back is a great way to see how far you went.

Actually I'd suggest doing the entire trail both ways. For an experienced hiker living and recreating at altitude, the CT trail should be very easy. Every bit as much for a healthy ten year old as their healthy parent. For a healthy ten year old, boredom would be my only concern. Josh.

Beverly,

My husband and I aren't big hikers (he's very athletic though). We hiked Monterosso to Vernazza and even though I complained a little (smile), it was a beautiful view. We also did Vernazza to Corniglia after we had lunch, gelato etc. in Vernazza and took a break. We did both in one day and then took the train back. I think it's very reasonable for you to do both hikes in one day. Do not miss taking the ferry while you are there- My best pictures came from the hike from Monterosso to Vernazza and the ferry ride.

Here's Rick's photo looking down at Vernazza from the trail that starts in Monterosso!photo

We stayed in Vernazza, hiked to Monterosso, waded in the water and hung out on the beach a while. Then we took a train past Vernazza and hiked back to Vernazza from that end. We had our 16 and 12 year old sons and 8 year old daughter. They're pretty stout as we have hiked trails all over the US and Canadian rockies. This isn't difficult. It has the occasional up or down hill but is like climbing, descending stairs.

There are also cat outposts on the trail our kids enjoyed.

To keep your son from being miserable be ready to shed layers when you get warm or add layers if it turns cool. Use sunscreen and bring drinking water, we got very thirsty on the trail. Stopping for a drink at each town wasn't quite enough. We didn't notice bugs but were there in October.