The enchantment of Five lands it needs no introduction: loved and appreciated internationally, the picturesque villages that outline it (Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso) along a wild coast have always attracted millions of visitors.
Of course, the charm of the colorful houses and small squares overlooking the blue is undeniable but the Cinque Terre are not “just the villages”. This magical corner of Liguria, in fact, is the guardian of a fabulous park which is the paradise for trekkers and hikersas well as centuries-old traditions, history and culture all to be discovered.
Active tourism in the Cinque Terre Park
The Cinque Terre National Park and the Marine Protected Area are one of the jewels in the crown of the fabulous Ligurian territory in the province of La Spezia, the fulcrum of active tourism in full contact with nature.
And, from May 1st to October 31st, “Cinque Terre Walking Park 2024″a full calendar of events with trekking in nature, cycling, snorkelling, visits to the winery: from east to west, from the coast to the ridge, visitors thus have a unique opportunity to get to know an unprecedented side of the Cinque Terre to the rhythm of the seasons, discovering the Park and its biodiversity thanks to the countless paths and activities in the protected marine area together with expert guides and the Park’s Environmental Education Centre.
Among the highlights we find trekking along the Park’s rich trail network, through natural habitats, ancient settlements, sanctuaries and terraced landscapes, as well as snorkelling, sunset rides and visits to wineries and villages.
New for 2024 the foraging to discover the “herbs” or spontaneous herbs as my grandmothers called them, still used today in traditional cuisine, and not to miss the ploggingan activity that combines waste collection with sport in nature, offering an opportunity to reflect on the daily habits that have the greatest impact on the environment.
Initiatives to be experienced
The initiatives of the Cinque Terre Walking Park are included among the services offered by the Cinque Terre Card services (both train and trekking), unless otherwise indicated (free appointments are also available).
The departure is always from one of the Park’s Reception Centers located in the railway stations of the Cinque Terre villages, with the exception of excursions planned in the Tramonti area (east of the protected area).
Among the appointments to mark in the diary here, for example, “Between Myth and History“, a tour of Vernazza and Monterosso lasting approximately three hours with a guide who will explain the origins and characteristics of the two villages to understand their points of contact, “Foraging (going for grass)a trek between Monterosso, Soviore, Monterosso to learn to recognize wild herbs suitable for use in the kitchen, and “Sunset Tour – Centuries-old traditions, history and culture“, to appreciate the historical, artistic and cultural beauties of the “lesser known” village of Corniglia.
But that’s certainly not all.
“Cycling at sunset in the Park” is an exciting round trip e-bike tour between Levanto, Legnaro and Monterosso, “In the footsteps of the painters” leads to the places (Manarola and Riomaggiore) that inspired Telemaco Signorini, while “From the vineyard to the cellar” is an opportunity to visit the Cantina Sociale of the Cinque Terre Agriculture Cooperative in the Groppo area (above the town of Manarola).
Still, “Trekking in the terraced landscape” is ideal for admiring the bold terraces of the area while walking between Manarola, Volastra and Corniglia, “The Places of the Soul – Soviore Sanctuary” is a hiking trek to see the thirteenth-century religious complex in a scenic position, and “Monumental Trees – Holm Oaks and Cypresses” is the trekking between Vernazza and Reggio that leads to one of the most beautiful vertical paths in the Cinque Terre.
