Guru's 5 Go-To's---Cinque Terre Edition

There are some places I have traveled to that have truly given me a travel high. The Cinque Terre is one of them. After I leave from this magical destination, I feel like I'm floating on air. I love everything about it; the nature, the colors, the food, the drink..the authentic vibe. There is only one place like the Cinque Terre, and it should be treasured and appreciated.

A string of 5 colorfully painted fishing villages strung across the Italian Riviera's cliffs. This Italian National Park is as magical as it sounds.

The five towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore are each unique in their own way and used to be only accessible by foot or by water. Cars can now reach a few of the villages and a railway has been constructed to access each of the towns.

The pastel painted nook carved within the coast line is a mother nature gem to be treasured.

5. Choose 2-3 villages to see maximum, per day

When taking on the Cinque Terre, it can be tempting to want to hop from village to village to see it all in one day, the train ride from each one is only about 10 minutes. However, if you rush, your time in the villages you will miss out on a big part of what the National Park has to offer, and that is taking in it's unique vibe with ease.

Insider Tip: You should buy a 16 Euro daily pass (can be purchased at La Spezia or Levanto at Cinque Terre tourist information booths), which allows you unlimited access to all trails and trains throughout the day, otherwise you will be having to buy one way tickets each time you plan to hop on a new train or trail; time and trouble you don't want to spend.

Get all information here: Cinque Terre

Have long meals, indulge in aperitivo, relax by the water, take lots of pictures, and soak it all in. It is one of the most beautifully unique regions in the world.

4. Eat Pesto, drink the local white wine

I don't think it's humanly possible for the Italians to make a bad meal. They just can't do it. But, pesto does come from the Ligurian area made from basil leaves, olive oil, grated cheese and pine nuts; it is a must try.

You also can't go wrong with mussels or seafood pasta.

As a refreshment on the side of your mouth watering Italian cuisine, Cinque Terre is known to be a dry white region and is an easy one to remember, it is simply called 'Cinque Terre'.

3. Hang out on the beaches of Monterosso

Monterosso is comprised of two parts, connected by a small road tunnel; the old town and new town. The new town has a large sandy beach lined with cafes and restaurants. The old town is similar to the other Cinque Terre towns, so in order to soak up some sun and a different vibe than the rest of what the 5 Terrre has to offer, dedicate at least half a day to the beach.

Monterosso is the only village of the five which has a proper beach and is a great way to spend the day lounging by the sea and relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of the small village centers.

2. Hike from village to village

There was a time when the hiking trails from each village were all open, now due to erosion and deterioration of the paths, (they are located on cliffs after all), only a few are open depending on the time of season and when you go.

Insider Tip: Your best bet is to ask at the information points to find out which are best to use the day you are visiting

Keep in mind, these are not easy trails, the shortest one takes a minimum 90 minutes and involves a lot of traversing up and down stairs and on some steep ledges. They are doable, and you will even find the uber-fit traveler running them, but they are not to be taken lightly.

That being said, in my opinion, you cannot go to Cinque Terre without having the experience of hiking through the villages. Being able to wind your way through the gorgeous nature trails with the views of the upcoming painted village ahead of you and the one you left behind you, is indescribable. It is the definition of: #viewsonviews.

If you go in the summer be prepared for hot weather. Have a water bottle, wear good shoes, shorts and a tank with your bathing suit underneath so after you have accomplished a trail you can treat your shaky, sweaty legs to a refreshing dip in the sea.

Inisder Tip: Best time to visit? Early Spring or late fall, off peak times = less crowded and not as steamy hot.

If you are up to the hiking challenge, I recommend taking the train to Corniglia, where you will then climb 365 steps to the top (one for every day of the year). You then walk through the small adorable town of Corniglia. On the other side of the village, begin your trek following signs marked to Vernazza. There is a hut about half way in between with refreshing drinks, don't let it fool you, you haven't reached your destination. After refueling you will continue onwards.

Once you've reached Vernazza, the most characteristic village of the five, you will have many options to sit and enjoy a long Italian meal and completely satisfied with your decision to take on the hike.

1. Stay in one of the villages

Whether you are going for a mere couple of days amidst your Italian vacation, or staying for an extended period of time, the best way to embrace the five villages is to stay in one of them.

La Spezia or Levanto are the easier options, as they are bigger cities and have plenty of hotel options that are easily accessible by train. But, in order to have an authentic Italian experience, you should hike all day, swim in the sea and end your evening sipping wine from your apartment/hotel balcony watching the sunset. Hello Italian dreams come true!

Insider Tip: In the heart of Riomaggiore is the perfect spot to spend your night, check out: La Baia Di Rio

One last Insider Tip: When staying in the villages; pack light. The towns and harbors are not easily marked with pedestrian walkways, part of the charm that is the Cinque Terre. The last thing you want to be doing is lugging large bulky suitcases up stairs and winding paths. You will thank me later.