In between beautiful rugged hills and the serene waters of the Ligurian Sea, five villages cling to the coast – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
What today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site was known as the five lands in the past, hence Cinque Terre, and has become a prime destination for travellers, offering an enchanting blend of vibrant landscapes, rich history, and unparalleled charm.
Cinque Terre is a gastronomic paradise, offering fresh seafood, locally-produced wines from the terraced vineyards, and traditional Ligurian creations, such as Focaccia, Pesto, and Farinata.
Beside the enchanting vistas and charming villages, Cinque Terre holds another treasure. The exquisite white wines, that have been made primarily from the Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grapes, which thrive in the region’s unique terroir, have been granted a DOC. But, more prestigious is Sciacchertrà, a sweet wine that is produced from grapes dried off the vine away from the sun in well-ventilated areas. Sciacchetrà is a lusciously sweet wine that goes well with desserts, or cheese.
In every sip of Cinque Terre wine, one can taste the sun-drenched slopes, salty sea air, and the passion of the winemakers who tend to the terraced vineyards.
Cinque Terre National Park, in which are the five villages, is a haven for travellers offering a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights. So, whether you’re an avid hiker, a food enthusiast, or a history buff, or just a fan of Disney’s ‘Luca’ and want to see where it is set, Cinque Terre will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso al Mare, with its historical allure, sun-soaked beaches, and vibrant village life, invites travellers to experience the heart and soul of Cinque Terre. The town boasts a rich history that unfolds through its ancient architecture and cultural landmarks. For instance the 14th century church of San Giovanni Battista and the 17th century Capuchin convent provide a glimpse into the historical and religious heritage of the area. Visitors may also stumble upon the remains of the old Republic of Genoa fortifications, or perhaps have their attention caught by the Giant of Monterosso, a statue of Neptune that once held up the shell-shaped terrace of Villa Pastine, that was damaged in the Second World War.
Vernazza
Nestled gracefully between steep cliffs and the azure Ligurian Sea, Vernazza emerges as a true gem within the crown of Cinque Terre. This charming village, with its colourful buildings, ancient harbour, and rich maritime history, invites travellers to step into a world where time seems to stand still, and the beauty of the Italian coast takes centre stage. Vernazza’s iconic waterfront, adorned with vibrantly painted buildings, creates a stunning panorama that never fails to captivate visitors. Unmissable is the 15th century Doria castle, perched atop a cliff overlooking the village and the sea. It stands proud as a testament to Vernazza’s historical significance, and provides stunning panoramic views of the village and the sea.
Corniglia
Corniglia, with its tranquil charm and authentic spirit, invites travellers to discover a different facet of Cinque Terre. Unlike the other towns of Cinque Terre, Corniglia is not directly on the sea, instead it is atop a promontory around 100 metres high, with panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. Corniglia’s unique position away from the sea and less than 200 residents, give it an air of peaceful seclusion. Surrounded by vineyards and terraces, and lush greenery, the village offers a serene escape for those seeking a quieter side of Cinque Terre.
Manarola
Manarola stands as a postcard-perfect canvas, a village painted in every imaginable shade of the Mediterranean palette. Its photogenic beauty has made it one of the most photographed villages in Cinque Terre, and invites visitors to step into a dreamscape where every hue tells a story of seaside enchantment. It is perhaps the oldest town of Cinque Terre, with the church of San Lorenzo dating back to the 14th century.
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore emerges as a coastal jewel, boasting a harmonious blend of seaside charm, colourful architecture, and a lively spirit that defines the heart of this Italian coastal paradise. Like Manarola, it is a pretty old town. Any visitor is able to immerse themselves in Riomaggiore’s history by visiting the remains of the castle, or the 14th century church of San Giovanni Battista. Riomaggiore shares a special connection with its neighbouring town, Manarola, through the iconic Via dell’Amore, or Lover’s Lane. This romantic cliffside path offers breathtaking views of the sea and the coastline, making it an ideal leisurely stroll amidst the natural beauty of Cinque Terre.
Italy with Amore 