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Sitting high atop the cliffs along the Italian Riviera, the Cinque Terre is the name given to a string of five charming coastal towns. Vernazza, Monterosso al Mare, Manarola, Riomaggiore and Corniglia have something for everyone, making them a dream destination for many tourists. The region lends itself well to those looking to kick back and relax, however it’s also particularly popular amongst hikers. Many avid walkers will know of the main coastal path that runs through the towns, however this barely scratches the surface of what is available when it comes to a Cinque terre hike Anyone keen to throw on their walking boots and hit the trails will be spoilt for choice given the countless well-known and much-loved walking routes of varying difficulties on offer. The iconic backdrop of the Italian Riviera makes hiking a wonderful activity for anyone to try when visiting the area. As with anything, though, it’s always a good idea to come prepared. Below you will find some top tips to help ensure your Cinque Terre hike is the best it can be. 1. Start Small Those who are new to hiking might be tempted to start with the best route on offer, regardless of its length or complexity. This could leave you feeling pretty rough the next day as your body struggles to adjust to this level of activity. The best advice here is to start small and ease yourself into longer and trickier routes. The same goes for experienced hikers who are getting back into it after a break during the off-season; that first walk can be hard on your body, so warm up with some small hikes and enjoy the process of increasing your stamina. Another thing to remember is to pace yourself - coming out of the gates like a whippet can leave you struggling to reach the end of longer and more challenging routes. Your hike is not a race, enjoy soaking in the beauty as you slowly make your way along your chosen trail. 2. Bring a Buddy Safety should always be a top priority when planning any hike. Be sure to note down emergency numbers in advance, and always tell somebody where you’re planning to walk. This way people can assist if you were to get lost or struggling to get home. Another key safety tip is to never walk alone, regardless of your confidence or experience level. Even the most accomplished hikers are at risk of injury, and so it is important to have at least one person with you who can call for help if it is needed. The wonderful hikes and stunning views along the coast are best enjoyed with a group of friends - the more you can bring along, the merrier! 3. Fuel Your Body Exercising on an empty stomach is never advisable, and this is certainly the case when hiking. Fueling your body efficiently before, during and after your walk will see you tackling even the trickiest of trails with a spring in your step. Protein and carbohydrates are the best food groups for providing long-lasting energy. Bring snacks that are small enough to pack in your bag, easy to eat and not liable to melting in the heat of the Italian sun (as sad as it is to admit, chocolate might be better left in the fridge!). Always ensure you’re drinking plenty of water. Anyone tackling a Cinque Terre hike of any length, particularly in the summer, will need to stay well hydrated. 4. Leave It As You Found It This is a truly stunning area, and it deserves to remain as such. A vital principle to bear in mind when enjoying this or any other region, is to leave it as you found it. Be considerate of the environment and of others. Take rubbish away and properly dispose of it in bins. Do not feed wildlife. Do not disturb the peace of the Italian Riviera by playing music loudly. The outdoors is for everyone, mutual respect will help to preserve areas for us all to enjoy. There is nothing more wonderful than getting out and enjoying nature, and what better place to do it than the beautiful Italian Riviera? Book on to a day tour, bring some friends, a lot of water and a comfortable pair of shoes and you have everything you need to enjoy the perfect Cinque Terre hike. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the best Cinque Terre hike itinerary. 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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