The Sentiero Azzurro

The Blue Trail was built by the will and labor of the inhabitants of Cinque Terre during thousands of years.

It runs from Riomaggiore to Monterosso, and the name comes from the fact that although it is surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and vineyards, it always offers a spectacular view of the sea.

The first section of the Blue Trail is the Via dell’Amore, the only modern section, as it was built in the 1920s on the route of the renovated railway line.
This is a rather short trail on the cliffs near Manarola, and it is romantic and picturesque.

Continuing on the Sentiero Azzurro, we arrive at Punta Bonfiglio, with its crystal clear waters and patches of gorse, which brings us to Corniglia.

The Vernazza section is perhaps the most difficult, as the trail begins to climb. From here it is possible to see the beautiful and wild Guvano beach, once a destination for hippies and nudists. Continuing on, past Prevo, you reach the town, heralded by a medieval turret.

The longest section of the Blue Trail is the one between Vernazza and Monterosso, which remains, however, a favorite destination for Sunday outings for local residents. Past the church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia, one travels through an area of vineyards and olive trees to Punta Linà and Acquapendente.

After a slight climb, you come in sight of Monterosso, which can be reached by a flight of steps. The more courageous can continue to Punta del Mesco.

Generally, a day is required to walk the Blue Trail, but it is always recommended not to push yourself beyond your walking ability.

In any case, you can return by train from Monterosso station. Always use caution, however, because in many sections the path narrows quite a bit.

As the Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, pedestrian stretches are subject to a toll, the proceeds of which are used to care for the area.