When traveling to the CT for hiking purposes is it better to start in the southern most town and hike north/west or start in the north and work south?
Kathleen, My preference is to start in Monterosso and work south. The trail from there to Vernazza is the most challenging, and I prefer to do that part at the beginning when I'm well rested. The section from Vernazza to Corniglia is almost as challenging (but not quite). From Corniglia to Manarola is fairly easy and the Via del 'Amore from Manarola to Riomaggiore is mostly paved and VERY easy. Happy travels!
Be aware that the weather in November is hard to predict. It could be rainy which makes the trails very slippery. Thus, the park authorities usually close access to a number of trails for a good part of the fall and winter months.