Cinque Terre: if you are reading this article, maybe you already know something about what is behind this name.
Let's try to summarise some of its essential traits. Five villages between the mountain and the sea, along the most rugged part of the Ligurian east coast. Scenic landscape of terraced vineyards. Definitely, a must-see.
Is that all? Maybe this is absolutely realistic. However, there are a lot of myths in many touristic brochures, adding nothing, and maybe misleading you from the search of what is important and authentic, something that you would like to catch as an independent traveler. And, perhaps I could help you if you will choose me as your guide.
So, let's see some tips that may help you make the best out of your trip to Cinque Terre.
Being among the more famous places in Italy, Cinque Terre can also be among the most crowded places in the world. Do you feel comfortable in crowds? No problem. If not, consider the following. The touristic season goes from Eastern to mid-October; every season is lovely but coming during a full season be prepared and make your reservation in advance. Each day, packs of tourists generally come mid-morning to mid-afternoon. Early morning is fantastic: you will enjoy the soothing local sounds, and see people taking care of their orchards; why do not organise a hike at that time of the day? Hiking during peak hours can be less pleasant; the paths are narrow.
Out of season is excellent; although autumn and winter can have periods of heavy rains. Good weather temperatures are pleasant, and hiking will take you into a kind of "winter-summer", especially if you come from the cold part of the world. Yes, many hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops will be closed, but you will better understand the feeling of the local life of these tiny places.
Cinque Terre is not, and have almost never been a fishermen village. Now, people live on tourism; in the past, they lived on subsistence agriculture, with the only cash commodity being wine. Vineyards shaped the landscape and wine is still a discrete income source for some people. But please consider that tourism has an impact; maintenance of terraces is costly and difficult. The place is rugged and fragile. We will, try to approach it with respect, and find what is really authentic, both in the modern way of life and its connection to the past, that is sometimes still alive, but hidden.
Cinque Terre is not a place for beach tourism. The only beach is in Monterosso. In all the other places, you get to the sea in a small spot among cliffs and rocks. Cinque Terre is a hiking place. And it is connected by train, so there are fantastic possibilities for most people. But, walking from a village to another is not trivial. A kind of small mountain hike is sufficient. But, if you want to do all in one day, it can become demanding and challenging. You can also go off the beaten tracks, to find quiet places even during peak season. And, if you are really interested in understanding this place, and are a determined hiker, let's take on the inland side of the ridge, where you will see how a different geographical situation can determine the destiny of places.
Local food? Yes, there is. But do not think of seafood. Of course, tourists come for seafood, and they will find it everywhere, with many restaurants doing appreciable culinary interpretations. But, as I told you, these are not fishing places. Local food was mainly terrestrial. So, be patient, you will not find it everywhere; maybe almost nowhere in the more touristic restaurants, during peak season. But come, and I will do my best to address you, in case you are interested.
Ok, for the time being, that's enough. Hope to be soon able to share with you an unforgettable experience of this place.