Cinque Terre is a stunningly beautiful region of Italy, located on the Ligurian coast. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. The five villages of Cinque Terre – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – are perched on steep cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The scenery is breathtaking, and the villages are full of charm. It’s no wonder that Cinque Terre is a popular tourist destination.
But if you’re looking to get away from the crowds, there are plenty of secret places to visit in Cinque Terre. Here are seven of our favorites:
1. Punta Mesco
Punta Mesco is a small peninsula located between the villages of Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza. It’s a great place to go for a hike, with stunning views of the coastline. There’s also a small beach at Punta Mesco, where you can relax and take a swim.
2. The Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Soviore
The Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Soviore is a beautiful church located in the hills above the village of Monterosso al Mare. It’s a popular pilgrimage site, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can reach the sanctuary by following a trail from Monterosso al Mare.
3. The Torre Aurora
The Torre Aurora is a 16th-century watchtower located in the village of Vernazza. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Cinque Terre, and it offers panoramic views of the village and the coastline. You can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee.
4. The Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is a sea cave located near the village of Riomaggiore. It’s only accessible by boat, and it’s a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The water in the grotto is crystal clear, and the sunlight creates a beautiful blue hue.
5. The Via dell’Amore
The Via dell’Amore is a pedestrian path that connects the villages of Riomaggiore and Manarola. It’s a popular spot for couples, and it offers stunning views of the coastline. The path is about 1 kilometer long, and it takes about 20 minutes to walk.
6. The Sentiero Azzurro
The Sentiero Azzurro is a hiking trail that connects all five villages of Cinque Terre. It’s a challenging hike, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. The trail offers stunning views of the coastline, and it’s a great way to experience the beauty of Cinque Terre.
7. The Oratorio di San Francesco
The Oratorio di San Francesco is a small church located in the village of Manarola. It’s a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, and it contains some stunning frescoes. The church is open to the public, and it’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of Cinque Terre.
Culture
The culture of Cinque Terre is a blend of Ligurian and Italian traditions. The people of Cinque Terre are proud of their heritage, and they celebrate it with traditional festivals and events. Some of the most popular festivals include the Festa di San Giovanni Battista (June 24th), the Festa della Madonna della Salute (August 15th), and the Festa di San Rocco (August 16th).
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Cinque Terre are May, June, September, and October. These months offer warm weather and plenty of sunshine. July and August can be hot and crowded, so it’s best to avoid these months if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience.
Nearby Transportation
Cinque Terre is easily accessible by train. The nearest train station is in the town of La Spezia. From there, you can take a train to any of the five villages of Cinque Terre. There are also buses that run between the villages.
Local Food
The local food of Cinque Terre is based on fresh seafood and local produce. Some of the most popular dishes include pesto, focaccia, and seafood pasta. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Cinque Terre, where you can enjoy the local cuisine.
Best Hotels
There are a number of hotels in Cinque Terre, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular hotels include the Hotel Punta Mesco, the Hotel Villa Steno, and the Hotel Il Saraceno. You can also find a number of guesthouses and bed and breakfasts in Cinque Terre.
Conclusion
Cinque Terre is a truly special place, and it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. If you’re looking for