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There are few walking holidays quite as spectacular as the ones to be had along Italy’s Ligurian coastline. The main Cinque Terre hike (the blue route) takes in seven and a half impressive miles through five villages. The coastline and the rugged green inland scenery are tremendous backdrops for hikers and walkers – and there are more routes besides the main one. But walking these wonderful trails is not the only reason to visit: for keen photographers there aren’t many places as picturesque anywhere else in the world. Sun-bleached blues and yellows, terracotta and dazzling white are just some of the colours that you’ll see on the buildings nestled into hillsides from town to town in the Cinque Terre. Hike to some of these spots for the best pics! Vernazza For visitors to Vernazza, in Cinque Terre, hike up the trail in the direction of Monterosso and you’ll come to a view-point that affords tremendous vistas out over the village and the ocean. The sunset here is truly awe inspiring and can make for some incredible images. It’s a charming village even from the ground, so as well as snapping shots while on the trails, there are a huge number of curiosities and intriguing sights to capture walking the streets. Riomaggiore From the rocks looking back towards the village is a clear winner for a location in Riomaggiore. It’s a great place to come in the evening, scrambling out onto the (slippery!) rocks and looking back at the town as it ascends the hill offers a breath-taking view, with the lights in the village transporting even the not-at-all artistically minded! Manarola Whether at sunrise or sunset in Cinque Terre, hike to Manarola and you’ll find perfect photo opportunities. Down from the rocks is a great place to get a brilliant picture, and you’ll be able to create very different moods depending on the weather. A cloudy sky can lend some real drama to the village. Hints and Tips Perhaps the most crucial tip is to think clearly about the light and the weather before deciding where to head. If you’d like to capture Riomaggiore on a sunny day, think about where would be best to stand – high or low – in order to get the most of the skyline. It sounds obvious but, depending on what look you’re trying to achieve, your vantage point makes a huge difference. Start early or finish late! Cinque Terre can get busy, so starting early in the morning or later in the evening can be a great way to get a picture of the villages looking serene and peaceful. The evening light lends a real atmospheric quality to shots too. As well as getting the best shots while on a Cinque Terre hike, it’s a great idea to capture the daily life of the residents of the towns themselves. The streets have remained unchanged in decades and wandering here can feel like stepping back in time. The Perfect Shot Whether you’re an amateur or a professional photographer, this part of the Italian Riviera will captivate your imagination in a way nowhere else can. The walking and the photography are just the tip of the iceberg, however, as after the light has faded there is all the wonderful food and drink to be enjoyed. Come and enjoy a toast to the perfect shot! 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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