Get ready to lace up your walking shoes because you’re in for some great sight-seeing in one of Italy’s finest regions, the Cinque Terre. Comprised of five different villages (its name translates to “five lands” in Italian!), there’s plenty to see and do here for every kind of traveller. Voyage to the Village of Vernazza Begin your Cinque Terre walk in the vibrant village of Vernazza, where you can explore the coastal hub that makes up the central piazza. Home to a quaint castle and some remarkable arches, this area used to be the only one in the region with its own harbour. Unfortunately, natural disasters hit the town back in 2011, but you would never be able to tell, given how earnestly the locals worked to fix up the area after the floods. Today, you’ll be delighted by the charming details like laundry hung up to dry and the hand-painted fishing crafts that dot the seashore. Riomaggiore Castle Take a hike – quite literally – up the sloping streets leading up to this centuries-old fortress. Sometimes called the Castellazzo of Cerrico, this castle is one of the area’s most popular attractions, and for good reason! Built between the thirteenth and sixteenth centuries, the Riomaggiore Castle boasts fabulous views from the top of its two towers, looking out towards the sea. Meander to Manarola Take in all the wonders of the Italian coast by heading to the marina at Manarola. Surrounded by hilly Sciacchetrà wine country, this region has a history spanning back to the Roman ages – making it the oldest of the region’s five villages. If you’re looking to take off your shoes and relax for a moment after your long Cinque Terre walk, Manarola is the place for you. Swimmers can dive right into the sea below, while sunbathers can stretch their legs out on the wide, flat rocks that make up the marina’s pseudo-beach. The Beach at Monterosso When you’re ready to relax under the soothing shade of a beach umbrella, make your way to the sandy Fegina Beach. Unlike other regional pebble beaches, Monterosso’s beach is covered in soft sand – perfect for walking along with bare feet. Try a Cinque Terre Walk with a Local Guide No one knows this area quite like the locals do. When you book a guided tour with a local guide, your Cinque Terre walk will take you to all the hidden hangouts and best-kept-secrets in town. These knowledgeable leaders will ensure you see all the best sites along your Cinque Terre walk, so rest assured that you won’t be missing any of the highlights when you book your tour. This historic region in the Italian Mediterranean is full of many hidden delights waiting for you to discover – what are you waiting for? Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the popular Cinque Terre walk. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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