Can't seem to get a clear picture of open trails as of Oct. 2013. I see info from a year ago. We are hikers and want to experiece CT on foot - which of the 5 cities should we stay in? Prefer quiet, local expericnce. Travel light with minimal tourist needs.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32419 posts
Marta, The most up-to-date information on the No. 2 (Sentiero Azzurro) trails can be found on this website: www.parconazionale5terre.it/sentieri_parco.asp?id_lingue=1 Two of the trails are currently closed (and probably will be for the remainder of the year), but the others are currently open. If you're avid and energetic hikers, one point to note is that there's an extensive network of trails in the area, so it's possibly to bypass the two sections which are closed (although it will take longer). Regarding which of the small towns to stay in, everyone here has their own preference so that's mostly a matter of opinion. My favourite is Monterosso, which is the largest of the five, has the most restaurants and shops as well as the best sandy beaches. Corniglia is probably the least favourite as it's located up on top of a rock so access isn't as easy. In order to choose the town that best appeals to you, I'd suggest having a look at the Italy Guidebook. You may also enjoy having a look at these short videos: www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2rK0wSA8qs www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0f54hqROgE Happy travels!
Posted by
OP
Bellevue, WA, USA
3 posts
Thank you for you quick reply. And for the links - very helpful! We may end up staying whereever we can get a room. We've sent many inquiries with no luck. It's short notice - do people ever just show up and find rooms?
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12315 posts
We went in October with no reservations and had no trouble at all finding a room. We stayed in Vernazza. When we were there it wasn't too touristy. If anything, it was really quiet. At the station there were perhaps ten people offering lodging to the fifty or so that got off there. We followed one person to a room, but it was too small for our family of five. We then went to the hotel closest to the pier/jetty and told the man at the desk what we were looking for. A woman from the lobby went into the street, called a couple other women from other buildings into a huddle and took us to a nice two bedroom flat for a much better price than you see in the guidebooks. It's likely to be hardest to do it this way if you arrive during the weekend and the weather is particularly nice, because that will drive more weekend visitors from the surrounding region.
Posted by
Surprise, AZ, USA
98 posts
We have just returned from Vernazza. Here is the travel agency we rented from. While getting our keys, there was a couple looking for a room. She has a few. info@cinqueterreriviera.com
Posted by
OP
Bellevue, WA, USA
3 posts
Thank you all! This is the first time I posted to RS helpline - and it was very helpful! We leave for Itally on Sunday. With appreciation!
Marta
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32419 posts
Marta, Did you book a place to stay in the Cinque Terre? At this time of year, it will be a bit less crowded, (although still somewhat "busy") but there should be vacancies. Cheers!
Posted by
aiken, sc, United States
53 posts
Marta, I've been to the CT twice. This time of year, you should be able to show up,(preferably in the morning) and ask around and ring the little doorbells and someone will come running. you can also bargain if you pay with cash. Show up with CASH! I recommend Vernazza. I found it to feel most like home. Have a great time and just roll with it. Bill