2017 Italy / France – Day 3 – Aosta Valley / Cinque Terre


Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands” in Italian, is a beautiful coastal region located in the northwest of Italy, in the Liguria region. It is a series of five villages, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, that are built into the cliffs along the Mediterranean Sea. These villages are connected by a network of hiking trails, and are also accessible by train and boat.

The Cinque Terre is famous for its picturesque landscapes, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The villages are built on terraces carved into the cliffs and offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding hills. The most famous trail, the “Sentiero Azzurro,” or “Blue Trail,” connects all five villages and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the sea. This trail is a must-do for hikers who want to experience the beauty of Cinque Terre.

Cinque Terre is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the sea. The region is famous for its seafood dishes, such as fish soups, anchovies, and “pesto alla genovese,” a sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil. The region is also known for its wine production, particularly the “Sciacchetrà” wine, a sweet, amber-colored wine made from grapes grown on terraced vineyards.

The region’s history is closely tied to the sea, and fishing has been the main source of livelihood for the locals for centuries. The villages also have a rich cultural heritage, which is evident in the colorful houses, narrow streets, and small piazzas. Visitors can also visit the many churches and chapels in the region, such as the Church of Santa Margherita in Monterosso al Mare, which dates back to the 13th century.

In addition to hiking and exploring the villages, there are many other activities to enjoy in Cinque Terre. Visitors can take boat trips to explore the coastline, go swimming and sunbathing on the beaches, and even take part in water sports such as diving and snorkeling. The region is also a popular destination for rock climbing and paragliding.

Cinque Terre is a beautiful coastal region located in the northwest of Italy, in the Liguria region. It is a series of five villages, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, that are built into the cliffs along the Mediterranean Sea. The villages are connected by a network of hiking trails and offer stunning views of the sea, the surrounding hills and the region’s rich cultural heritage. The region is also known for its delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood dishes, and wines. Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a unique experience to explore the region’s natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious food.