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During this 8-day trip you will discover the cliffs and coves of the Cinque Terre and Portofino. Walk along cobbled paths and easy roads, with spectacular views of the sea and the colourful houses which line the coast.

  • Walk the cliffs & coves of the Cinque Terre
  • Panoramic sea views
  • Rugged coastline & idyllic fishing harbours
  • Enjoy delicious local dishes
  • Explore colourful clifftop villages
  • Hiking & snorkelling on the island of Palmaria

A little corner of paradise, the Cinque Terre - meaning five little villages - is located in the Liguria region at the end of the Riviera di Levante. Generations of farmers shaped the mountains by building stone walls to retain the land and create cultivation terraces. This area is steeped in tradition and has a strong local economy. Nestled above cliffs or deep coves, the colourful houses of these little villages line the seafront and help create this areas unique landscape.

You’ll be walking along cobbled paths and through lush olive groves, but make sure you take some time to sample the delicious fresh produce in one of the many tavernas along the way. You will also discover the classy ports of Portofino and Sestri Levante, known to be frequented by millionaires and their yachts that drop anchor just off the coast.

Your accommodation offers the friendly atmosphere you’d expect from Italian hosts and helps you unwind after a long day of walking.

Typical Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Travel to Camogli

    Make your way to Camogli from Genoa, Milan or Pisa to the starting point of your holiday in Camogli.

  2. Day 2: Camogli to Portofino

    Today's walk begins at Camogli and takes you to the tiny village of San Fruttuoso which is only accessible by foot. The trail passes the River Gentile, mule tracks, olive groves, high walled paths and winding roads until you reach the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, standing on the shores of the sea.

    After visiting the Abbey, why not walk down to the beach for a chance to take a refreshing dip in the sea. You have the option to return to Camogli via boat, otherwise continue for the second part of the walk which is partly shaded and mostly downhill until the splendid seaside town of Portofino with its brightly coloured houses and iconic Piazzetta.

    To return to Camogli you can take the bus or train from Portofino.

    Walking distance: 11 km | Ascent: 700 m | Descent: 700 m

  3. Day 3: Bonassola & Framura

    Take the train to the town of Bonassola with your luggage. Climb up to the panoramic point of the Hare Jump, with views of the small village of Montaretto. Once you reach Framura, relax on one of its beautiful beaches. Continue on your walk, navigating a panoramic path with cliff passages and woodland, before returning to Bonnasola. 

    Walking distance: 9 km | Ascent: 350 m | Descent: 350 m

  4. Day 4: Corniglia to Riomaggiorore

    Walk between Corniglia, the centre of the five villages, built on a cliff top 100 metres above sea level, surrounded by hills dedicated to the cultivation of vines. Corniglia tends to receive fewer tourists than the other villages. Continue uphill along one of the most scenic paths of the Cinque Terre, stopping for a tasting of local wines, and then descend the path in the direction of Manarola, which will welcome you with the thousand colours of its perched village. Spend some time exploring the tiny harbour and piazza packed with seafood restaurants.

    After a lunch break and a pleasant dip in the cool Ligurian waters, you can decide whether to continue in the direction of Riomaggiore or spend the rest of the day simply by the sea. The last stretch of the path towards Riomaggiore is recommended for expert walkers. Riomaggiore is one of the quietest towns. The multi-coloured houses are built into a natural harbour carved out of the rocks. Take the coastal railway back to Bonassola from Manarola or Riomaggiore. 

    Walking distance: 8 km | Ascent: 550 m | Descent: 550 m

  5. Day 5: Bonassola to Monterosso al Mare

    Following the cycle and pedestrian path along the sea you will leave Bonassola heading for the charming seaside town of Levanto, which really could be the sixth village of the Cinque Terre. The buildings here differ to the other villages, with windows and balconies painted on walls that look realistic from a distance.

    The Castle and the Clock Tower are interesting historical points to stop by on your way up the hill to Monterosso. This is the simplest trail of the week, easily accessible on well maintained and signposted paths up to Punta Mesco and then downhill to Monterosso al Mare.

    Walking distance: 11 km | Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 400 m

  6. Day 6: Monterosso al Mare to Corniglia

    Today's walk is in the heart of the Cinque Terre National Park. The journey will begin with spectacular views of the sea as you leave Monterosso behind, passing through lush olive groves. Take some time to stop in Vernazza town, an historical fishing village and the Cinque Terre's only natural port. With colourful houses lining the marina, the Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church and Doria Castle - it is a beautiful place to explore.

    Continue through further olive grove until you reach the town of Corniglia, the oldest of the five towns, perched on top of a hill with panoramic views.

    Walking distance: 8 km | Ascent: 500 m | Descent: 500 m 

  7. Day 7: Riomaggiore to Portovenere

    On the way to Riomaggiore the train passes through Manarola, one of the smallest and the oldest in the Cinque Terre. If you have time, make a pit stop here.

    Continue on the train to Riomaggiore to begin the walk to medieval town of Portovenere, a World Heritage Site. This picturesque path offers rewarding views of the coastline.

    Take a boat back to your hotel and enjoy the sunset on your final evening in Liguria.

    Walking distance: 13 km | Ascent: 600 m | Descent: 600 m

  8. Day 8: Departure

Please note: We also offer a centre-based version of this itinerary, based in the quaint village of Sestri Levante. Contact us for details.

Price and Other Information

  • Duration and price excluding international flights: 8 days from £789 per person
  • Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 8 days from £1,079 per person
  • Single room supplement: From £289
  • Walking grade: Easy to Moderate
  • Guiding: Self-Guided
  • Max alt: Low
  • When to go: View Dates & Prices
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  • Route map:
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  • What’s included
    • Hotel x 7 nights
    • 7 breakfasts

Next Steps

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Self-Guided Dates and Prices
Year Daily Departures Price From (Exc. Flights) Options
All prices are per person. Daily departures subject to availability.
2024 From 24 Mar to 21 Jun £889 Book or Enquire
2024 From 22 Jun to 19 Jul £929 Book or Enquire
2024 From 20 Jul to 1 Sep £989 Book or Enquire
2024 From 2 Sep to 27 Oct £889 Book or Enquire
2024 From 28 Oct to 15 Nov £789 Book or Enquire

If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.