Levanto

Rick describes it as a 2.5-hour hike for strong hikers, with total elevation gain more than double that of the toughest Cinque Terre legs. Trains run frequently and boats a few times per day; http://www.navigazionegolfodeipoeti.it/.

Staying in Levanto is a very good option to consider (although I don't know what type of accommodations are available for a large group). Rather than hike from Levanto to Monterosso, I'd suggest taking the train as it's only a 4 minute ride. Once in Monterosso you can connect with the popular Sentiero Azzurro trails (at least the two segments that are currently open). If you go all the way to Riomaggiore via hiking, trains or boats, it's a very easy trip back to Levanto.

Thanks, Laura.
Also, I believe Monterosso is just one train stop away, partially under the mts., better for the less hiking inclined members of the family! I will definitely check the site you mentioned.

Hmmmm, two-and-a-half hours walking uphill, or four minutes on the train, two-and-a-half walking uphill, or four minutes on the train. Wonder which I'd choose?

My Rick Steves group (Small Town Italy) stayed in Levanto and I would recommend it.
You can buy a 1 day train pass and include the hiking pass.
We rode to the Southern most town and walked back. Because of the conditions of some
of the trails, we had to take some higher up trails.
You can also use your 1 day train pass as a hop-on-hop off and visit all the towns by train if you want.
I would really recommend Levanto. The have a sandy beach that is great for swimming.

we enjoyed our stay there, it was ideal as we had a car. we also hired bikes at the local bike shop for a few hours and rode on the disused rail track, now bike track, via the tunnels to the next town ( can't remember the name ) the track follows the coast line. great ride for something a bit different. the ferry ride to the CT towns was good but quiet a lot of tourists ( in May) so we got in early.

Hmmmm, two-and-a-half hours walking uphill, or four minutes on the train, two-and-a-half walking uphill, or four minutes on the train. Wonder which I'd choose?

To be fair, Larry, it's actually up one side and down the other. It is a beautiful hike and not too crowded since it is challenging. Nice ruins along the way.

Thanks, everyone, just what I needed.