CINQUE TERRE AND PORTOFINO ITALY WALKING TOUR
Located on a part of Italy’s most beautiful coastline, our base in the seaside town of Moneglia is a real treat for visitors. The town is perfectly nestled between the Cinque Terre and Bay of Portofino in a spectacular setting. On inspirational walks through Italian hills, woodland, and coastal villages we will discover why these areas have earned names such as the Gulf of the Poets. Many of the country’s most iconic trails are situated in the region and the temperate climate, ample opportunities for walking, relaxing, and sampling delicious food and wine, make this trip a great introduction to Italy. The hotel where we are based is just metres away from the beach which has been awarded the European Blue Badge for cleanliness and sustainability.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre (Five Lands) in the Italian Ligurian “Gulf of the Poets”
- Via Dell’Amore (Path of Love) and Sentiero Azzurro Ligure (Ligurian Blue Path)
- Cinque Terre National Park
- Marble quarries at Carrara
- Cable car up to the sanctuary of Montallegro
AT A GLANCE
ITINERARY DETAIL
DAY 1: MONEGLIA
Charming Seaside Town of Moneglia
We begin in the charming seaside town of Moneglia. Beautifully located in the heart of a bay on the Mediterranean sea, the picture-postcard town is listed since 2012 on the ‘I Borghi Più Belli d’Italia’ (Most Beautiful Villages of Italy) and has been awarded the European Blue Flag every year since 1990, for its clear waters and the quality of the services offered.
| Daily Summary |
|---|
| Accommodation: Piccolo Hotel Meals: D |
DAY 2: MONEGLIA – DEIVA MARINA-FRAMURA
Follow the Coastal Trail Between Deiva Marina and the Villages of Framura and Bonassola
In the morning we take a short train to Deiva Marina and start our walk through holm oak forests and maquis shrubland. The walk begins with a relatively steep path, climbing up to picturesque woods of pine and strawberry trees. Our efforts will be rewarded at the top of the hill with stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the Promontory of Portofino.
| Daily Summary |
|---|
| Tour: Follow the Coastal Trail Between Deiva Marina and the Villages of Framura and Bonassola Accommodation: Piccolo Hotel Meals: B, L |
We will then take an undulating trail that offers beautiful views over the Ligurian Sea and leads to the village of Framura, where we stop for lunch. After the refreshments, we descend by steps almost to sea level then meander through woods until a final steep climb for magnificent views of the sea. We then head to the pretty village of Bonassola before taking the train back to our hotel in Moneglia. Meals: B, L
DAY 3: CINQUE TERRE NATIONAL PARK
Walk the Stunning Paths to Some of Liguria’s Prettiest Villages
Today we will set out to visit the spectacular Cinque Terre (Five Lands), one of Italy’s most beautiful ‘works of art’, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and part of the Cinque Terre National Park. The best way to explore these charming villages is on foot, and today we will walk on the famous Sentiero Azzurro Ligure (Ligurian Blue Path), which connects the five villages.
| Daily Summary |
|---|
| Tour: Walk the Stunning Paths to Some of Liguria’s Prettiest Villages Accommodation: Piccolo Hotel Meals: B |
Today we will visit three of the five, namely Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso, and we will pass along old mule tracks, walking through terraced vineyards and olive groves. After completing some steep and rocky sections, we will be rewarded with wonderful views of the colourful villages, built into the rocks facing the sea. Please note that some sections of the path may be closed so we may need to take the train between villages or change the itinerary accordingly.
At the end of the walk, we catch the train back to Moneglia where there will be time to relax or go for a swim before dinner.
DAY 4: PORTOFINO
Walk on the Portofino Promontory
This morning we will set out by train to Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming coastal town, where we will begin our hike to the once sleepy fishing village, Portofino, now the playground of the rich and famous.
| Daily Summary |
|---|
| Tour: Walk on the Portofino Promontory Accommodation: Piccolo Hotel Meals: B |
DAY 5: FREE DAY
Free Day to Relax, Take Optional Walks, Try Kayaking or Visit Nearby Portovenere or Genova
Today you will enjoy a well-earned break and perhaps spend your day relaxing at the beach. The more active might like to use the opportunity for some sightseeing. Genova, the region’s capital city, home of Christopher Columbus and one of the largest aquariums in Europe is not to be missed. Alternatively, you could use the day to visit the marble quarries at Carrara.
| Daily Summary |
|---|
| Accommodation: Piccolo Hotel Meals: B |
DAY 6: RAPALLO-CHIAVARI
Take a Cable Car Up Montallegro and Walk Down to Chiavari
This morning we will take a short train ride to Rapallo and the cable car up to the sanctuary of Montallegro (600 mt). From here we will set out on a walk through quiet woodland, catching glimpses of the Ligurian sea en route to the seaside town of Chiavari.
| Daily Summary |
|---|
| Tour: Take a Cable Car Up Montallegro and Walk Down to Chiavari Activity: Enjoy a Wine Tasting Accommodation: Piccolo Hotel Meals: B, L |
Enjoy a Wine Tasting
In the early evening, we will have the chance to enjoy the local specialty at our well-deserved wine tasting!
DAY 7: CINQUE TERRE
Alternative Walk Through Glorious Coastline and Colourful Villages
This morning we will head back to the famous Cinque Terre to walk some of the quieter, alternative trails. The exact path you will walk will depend on local track conditions, but they are generally on higher ground than the classic Sentiero Azzuro, so offer even more spectacular views of the coastline and villages. Total walk approx 7 or 10km.
| Daily Summary |
|---|
| Tour: Alternative Walk Through Glorious Coastline and Colourful Villages Accommodation: Piccolo Hotel Meals: B |
DAY 8: MONEGLIA
The tour ends today at check out. We can arrange for you to continue on to another destination or to fly home. Just ask!
| Daily Summary |
|---|
| Meals: B |
ACCOMMODATION
PICCOLO HOTEL
This family-run hotel is ideally located a few metres from the seafront, and the bars and restaurants of Moneglia. All rooms are en suite and facilities include an indoor pool, sun terrace with jacuzzi, and restaurant. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms.
Room Type: Lodge
