Years after tourists have discovered and headed to this crowded city, you can still find unmatched scenery, fabulous hotels and great food whenever you know where to look. Cinque Terre Native Italy
The moment I set my feet along the steep coastline of Monterosso al Mare, the easternmost town of Cinque Terre, I knew I had discovered a unique paradise. This took place in the fall of 2007, and far away, the clifftop towns that belong to this unparalleled landscape in Liguria attracted me with their cheerful colours, illuminated by the afternoon sun. After devouring fried anchovies, focaccia, pesto, and breathtaking views, I also understood why Cinque Terre, a UNESCO Heritage Site since 1997, has attracted many tourists.
Only after meeting some of the natives of this land and thus becoming a lifetime guest have I had the privilege of learning the exciting secrets that visitors do not have. I soon understood why these millennial cities, situated on the edge of the cliffs, transmit all this beauty worthy of pictures. The typical artificial terraces, called Poggi, are built for growing vines and olive trees, two of the region’s specialities. In a stroke of luck, the local government banned the construction of buildings in the 1960s, which contributed to preserving these unique lands.
Unlike the sophisticated port city of Portofino, popularized by celebrities in the 1950s, or Santa Marguerita, the fishing village transformed into a resort town on the Italian Riviera; Cinque Terre remained a secret to the masses until the mid-1990s.
With a labyrinth of narrow streets where no cars enter, except occasionally by taxi, Cinque Terre has the best access by train and should be best explored on foot or by boat. Use a ferry and get down and up in any of the five cities at your leisure.
These shipping ships even venture to Port Venere, just a little farther out of Cinque Terre. Sunset tours are also a beautiful way to discover Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. Climbing among these cliff towns is an adventure, showcasing some of the most stunning views of the Italian Riviera. I suggest keeping to the marked roads and obeying any blocked road warning signs. The least complicated and most iconic trail, the Via dell’Amore or “Love Path”, which connects Manarola and Riomaggiore, has recently reopened, but only for guided tours due to the control of people. It’s no secret that Cinque Terre is battling to control its tourist overpopulation, as more than three million tourists tread on its fragile soils annually.
To enjoy these beautiful and exciting lands more authentically, avoid visiting everything in one day with endless “selfies” and see out of season.
Cities wake up from their winter “break” shortly before the Easter holidays and stay open until the end of October.While most Monterosso beach clubs don’t open in May and close in September,
pebble beaches invite sun lovers year-round. Bring your towel and snorkelling gear. There’s no better place to hide from visitors in July and August than under a parasol. Make sure you book in advance that morning. The end of summer is also lovely; after school resumes, family tourism disappears. Cinque Terre Native Italy
Vernazza and Manarola are generally considered the cousins of Cinque Terre. Sleeping at a family B&B or hotel is, without a doubt, the best way to live like a native. Well above the bustle of Monterosso city life, Casa di Andrea exudes charm and garden views. Centrally located, the 3-star Hotel La Colonnina boasts renovated rooms and a rooftop deck. At the same time, the 4-star Porto Roca, high up on the cliff, offers the most sophisticated accommodation, with an infinity pool and a refined restaurant. For an accurate dose of rural life, complete with olive trees and local produce,
the Missanega Agriturismo, where you can call home. The only address with five stars, Grand Hotel Portovenere, isn’t located in Cinque Terre, but it’s close by. [Cinque Terre Native Italy]
Regarding gastronomy, the familiar Ristorante Miky has been impressing its customers since 1980,
while the distinct La Cantina di Miky serves innovative local food in a more casual spot by the sea. In the old town of Monterosso, Il Castelo serves tasty Ligurian specialities, such as stuffed anchovies and trofie al pesto. Aurora Tower is the only place with a better view for dinner or an appetizer. It got its name from a 16th-century tower where the restaurant is located. Follow classical music at Eliseo Winery to taste regional wines, or go to Enoteca Internazionale and have your wine with a gourmet bruschetta at the oldest wine shop in town. If you’re in the adventurous spirit, west of Monterosso,
the Casino, located in Levanto, which remains open year-round, becomes a perfect place for dinner or a drink, and you can reach it by train or on foot. You must take the two-hour trek to get the best coast views.
Each of the five cities deserves a pass through its historical centres and paths leading to stealth feeders. In Vernazza, it’s Ittiturismo Pirasca with views of varied landscapes, and the old Ristorante Belforte, etched on the cliff, offers appetizing views and dishes. Corniglia, the smallest mountaintop town, is also the least visited, and the Ittiturismo SP4488 makes the nearly 400-degree climb worthwhile. Trattoria dal Billy, a big favourite at this location, is reason enough to plan a trip to Manarola. The casually chic Rio Bistrot in Riomaggiore certainly won’t disappoint regarding good Ligurian-style food.
who knows, even a game of “bocce” with the locals.
having spent half of that time living abroad (USA, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and currently living in Israel). Fluent in 5 languages, visited and built relations in over 50 countries. Acts as a Manager, Negotiator and Promoter associated with various international entities.
. Every week, we have various issues.
Foto: Cinque Terre.