By now I'm sure you've heard of Cinque Terre, those five picturesque fishing villages nestled precipitously along Italy's rugged and rocky Ligurian coast. And I'm sure you've also heard that in recent, pre-Covid years, the villages (Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore) have become overrun with tourists. While it's true that June through September the area is absolutely packed with travelers from all over the world, it shouldn't stop you from visiting this truly magical part of the country. (Just plan to visit outside of those crazy summer months.) Need more incentive? Here are five.
- The villages are a well-preserved time capsule. Void of any high-rise, modern apartments, chain stores, fast-food restaurants or even a gas station, Cinque Terre has retained its old-world charm and character. Step back in time as you admire the brightly colored houses hugging the hillside, breathe in the pungent aroma of vineyards snaking up the hillsides, and watch as the fisherman down in the marinas deftly tend to their nets.
- Cars are not allowed in the five villages. Without the constant hum of automobiles, you can instead relax to the peaceful sound of the lapping surf, the crisp staccato of church bells ringing every hour, and the laughter of children playing soccer in the town piazza.
- The area is a hiker's paradise. A rugged eight-mile hiking trail dating back centuries connects the five villages together offering spectacular views of the sea below and a chance to peek into the lives of the local farmers and they tend to their vineyards and citrus trees. (Part of the trail, Monterosso to Corniglia, requires a hiking fee as it passes through a National Park.) If you're a true hiking enthusiast, you can continue past Riomaggiore all the way to the city of Portovenere, a challenging seven miles further.
- Corniglia's secluded beach. The village of Corniglia is the least crowded due to its distance from the train station--you'll need to climb a 100-meter staircase zig-zagging up the hillside to reach the tiny town's center piazza. But while the beach at Monterosso al Mare is bustling with sunbathers, Corniglia tranquil turquoise waters are relatively tourist free.
- The wine. All those terraced vineyards snaking their way up the hillside produces the area's famous sweet Sciacchetrá wine. Translated, it means "The Chatterer," and best drunk with a cheese course or with dessert. In the mood for something with your pasta con vongole? Then try Cinqueterre with it hints of citrus.
Cinque Terre is truly a magical destination. Whether you've visited in the past or are planning to venture there soon, Kic Jam Designs offers a collection of original posters and prints of the villages. Check them out here. We hope you enjoy them as much as we enjoyed creating them.
Arrivederci!