- Take coastal and mountain paths through olive groves and vineyards
- Explore the picturesque and colourful villages of Liguria and the Cinque Terre
- Walk from village to village, through forests and spectacular terraced landscapes overlooking the sea
- Experience an extra-special wine tasting at the internationally lauded taverna, Assirto
Walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino
8 Days
from
8 Days
from
Walking & Trekking
Itinerary
Moneglia Moneglia London London
Fly to Pisa; transfer to Moneglia.
Start at the charming seaside town of Moneglia. Beautifully located in the heart of a bay on the Mediterranean sea, the picture-postcard town is listed since 2012 on the “I Borghi Più Belli d’Italia” (Most Beautiful Villages of Italy) and has been awarded the European Blue Flag
every year since 1990, for its clear waters and the quality of the services offered.
Start Moneglia
We begin in the seaside town of Moneglia. In the heart of a bay on the Mediterranean Sea, this picture-perfect town is listed on the I Borghi Più Belli d’Italia (Most Beautiful Villages of Italy) and has won a European Blue Flag every year since 1990 for its clear waters and the quality of the services offered. There’ll be a welcome briefing at the hotel today – a good chance to get to know the group and your expert leader.
Follow the coastal trail between Deiva Marina and the villages of Framura and Bonassola
We take a short train to Deiva Marina in the morning and start our walk through holm oak forests and maquis shrubland. The walk begins with a relatively steep path, climbing up to picturesque woods of pine and strawberry trees. Our efforts will be rewarded at the top of the hill with stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the promontory of Portofino.
We will then take an undulating trail that offers beautiful views over the Ligurian Sea and leads to the village of Framura, where we stop for lunch. After refreshments, we descend by steps almost to sea level then meander through woods until a final steep climb for magnificent views of the sea. We then head to the pretty village of Bonassola before taking the train back to our hotel in Moneglia.
Take the train to Cinque Terre National Park; walk stunning paths to some of the prettiest villages in Liguria
Today we set out to visit the spectacular Cinque Terre, declared a Unesco World Heritage site in 1997 and part of the Cinque Terre National Park. The best way to explore these charming villages is on foot, and today we will walk the Sentiero Azzurro Ligure (Ligurian Blue Path), which connects the five villages.
Today we visit three of the five – Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso – and pass old mule tracks, walking through terraced vineyards and olive groves. After completing some steep and rocky sections, we will be rewarded with wonderful views of the colourful villages built into the rocks facing the sea.
At the end of the walk, we catch the train back to Moneglia where there will be time to relax or go for a swim before dinner. Please note that some sections of the path may be closed, so we may need to take the train between villages or change the itinerary accordingly.
Walk on the Portofino promontory and explore the world-renowned fishing village
Set out by train to Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming coastal town, where we will begin our hike to the fishing village of Portofino. Celebrated for its pastel-coloured houses and picturesque harbour, the town is now attracting celebrities from all over the world.
Free day to relax, take optional walks or visiting nearby Portovenere or Genova
Enjoy a well-earned break and perhaps spend your day relaxing at the beach. Or you might like to use the opportunity for some sightseeing. Genoa, the capital city of the region, is the home of Christopher Columbus and the largest aquarium in Europe. Alternatively, you could spend time in the nearby town of Portovenere – on the Bay of Poets – or use the day to explore the beautiful town of Lucca.
Transfer to Rapallo by train, take the cable car up Montallegro for fantastic views and walk down to Chiavari, afternoon wine tasting
This morning, we take a short train ride to Rapallo and the cable car up to the sanctuary of Montallegro (1,969ft/600m). From here, we walk through quiet woodland, catching glimpses of the Ligurian Sea en route to the seaside town of Chiavari. In the early evening, we enjoy an extra-special wine tasting at Assirto, an internationally heralded taverna in Moneglia. The experience starts with a sparkling rosé, before we enjoy a sensory journey through a trio of wines. To cap the evening, we’ll try passito, a traditional Italian sweet wine made from dried grapes.
Return to the Cinque Terre area for an alternative walk through glorious coastline and colourful villages
This morning we head back to the Cinque Terre to walk some of the quieter, alternative trails. The exact path you will walk will depend on local track conditions, but they are generally on higher ground than the classic Sentiero Azzurro, so offer even more spectacular views of the coastline and villages.
Transfer to Pisa; fly to London.
End Moneglia
You’ve taken some of the most beautiful coastal walks in the world this holiday, but now’s the time for one final breakfast before starting your return journey home. Of course, if you’d like to continue the adventure, you can speak to your sales consultant about extending your stay at the hotel.
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Hotels
The family-run Piccolo Hotel is ideally located a few metres from the seafront, and the bars and restaurants of the pretty town. All rooms are en suite and facilities include an indoor pool, sun terrace with whirlpool tub and restaurant. Wifi is available in the rooms. A limited number of double rooms for sole use are available for a supplement, please enquire for details.
Reviews
Add your own reviewCinque Terre and Portofino
I loved this trip, the scenery was stunning and definitely worth the hike up to get the best views. The Piccolo Hotel was situated about 50 yards from the Beach which was great for when we got back and could pop in for a quick swim and to ease to achy legs. Not forgetting the daily Gelato. My only criticism was I felt my room was very basic, it was also dark, the air conditioning only worked when the windows and shutters were closed. Unfortunately no natural daylight which was a shame as there were some lovely rooms. I had paid £400 for the single room supplement, I wouldn’t have been happy having to share with someone. On the upside the breakfasts were amazing, plenty of choice.
Most Inspirational Moment
Next to the last day when we covered the last two Cinque Terre. We had a scramble up hill to get to the top to have the most amazing views. It was definitely challenging and I am pleased to say that all our group managed to complete it. Sense of achievement at the top was amazing.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Miki was amazing, what else can I say, she gave us options every day and explained everything in great detail, she has amazing knowledge. Miki also said that this group was the only one ever when everybody completed the hard scramble.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Ensure you are fit enough, make sure you have all correct clothing especially walking boots and poles, someone on our group went out to buy new trainers as didn’t have walking boots. Most of all enjoy yourself have fun, go and jump in the sea. It was very hot when we were there 29/30 degrees. On our rest day quite a number of us opted to spend on sun loungers on the beach, it was brilliant.
Suggestions
Maybe give people the option to upgrade to a better quality room when booking
The Beautiful walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino
We have only very recently returned from the Exodus Adventure Holiday ‘Walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino’ We had the most wonderful time exploring the stunning coast line and beautiful villages in this UNESCO World Heritage region. Using the excellent and efficient Italian train service we were able to access the start of each days walk. We climbed, and we descended through the steep hills and promontories that are the feature of this coast line, and go someway to preserving its unspoilt beauty. It was a hot week, but all of the walks were perfectly paced to meet all of the group needs, and expertly led by our wonderful guide. The History and geography of the area was explained to us as we went. The Cinque Terre villages revealed themselves through tantalising glimpses from upon high before we finally descended into their charming hearts. For anyone wanting to experience this stunning area of Italy, then this holiday is the perfect presentation. Exodus continue to deliver experiences to cherish for a lifetime.
Most Inspirational Moment
There is always a great sense of satisfaction and pride in completing a walk. It can seem a challenge, but the prizes both on the walk, and particularly and the inevitable spectacular conclusion is always worth the effort. Just soaking up the village life, a well earned 'cold beer', or a dip in the green/blue sea is always a treat and worthy reward. Shady spots under the canopy of trees and beautiful, magnificent churches provided rest bite from the heat and inspiration and awe in equal measure. We fell in love with the 'base camp' small town of Mongolia and the Hotel Piccolo. The Hotel, family run and personal, only a few steps away from the beach, making a early morning swim before breakfast a real treat.
Thoughts on Group Leader
In Michaela we were so blessed. She was the perfect guide and companion. Let's start with the basics, she was efficient, organised, knowledgable, informative, patient, hard working. So, in terms of meeting the job specification, absolutely first class. Now the real Michaela, lovely, friendly, witty, personable, enthusiastic, encouraging, fascinating. We had a lovely group of people on the trip, but the absolute star was Michaela. Fantastic spoken English, she took great delight in expanding our rudimentary Italian with daily lessons and tests at the end of the day. She loved our sense of humour and gentle teasing. She gave so much more than was expected and brought great joy. Please pass on my thanks and fond wishes to Micky.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Come with good walking shoes, plenty of water, your camera, your swimming costumes, and open mind and a good appetite.
Suggestions
Another great trip and experience provided by Exodus. Back to the brochure and onto the next one. But, where to next ?
Great week of walking, great guide.
A wonderful week of great walking, fabulous scenery, lovely hotel, great food in the local restaurants, including a wine tasting – all coordinated by a fabulous guide.
Most Inspirational Moment
Lots of highlights - Portofino, walking along the terraces towards Riomaggiore, seeing the Giro D’Italia including Geraint Thomas whizz past on our ‘day off’! It’s lovely to return home feeling relaxed and very fit.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Michela is a superb leader, the best I have come across. She was fun, organised, knowledgeable and constantly looking after the group and each individual.
Advice for Potential Travellers
A certain level of fitness is required for ascending and descending hundreds of steps each day. The Cinque Terre National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and as a result is a popular place to visit. One of our walks was particularly busy with lots of stopping and starting on a narrow path in order to allow walkers coming the other way through. The scenery was spectacular but dealing with such crowds may not be everyone’s ‘cup of tea’.
I LOVED this trip
I LOVED this trip…my 10th with Exodus but my first walking holiday, and there was so much to enjoy. The walks were tough and I was nervous; I’m used to walking much further but not used to such steep hills and the many, many steps. But though my legs were often screaming, it was well worth it and I’d highly recommend the trip and the area.
The hotel was nice, rooms simple but had everything I needed, the town we stayed quiet but lovely, the restaurants are all fantastic in the town, and the beach is lovely – and it’s a rare thing for a beach to not be dominated by the Italian ‘beach clubs’ that usually take up most of the best spots.
The wine tasting is a very special evening.
Most Inspirational Moment
The view of Portofino as you come over the headland, walking across the terraces that stretch for miles across the mountains, with a village ahead of you and another behind...the sense of achievement when you reach each one!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Michela is a fantastic guide; great company, kind and thoughtful, informative and she worked really hard to ensure we got the best from our trip, including being flexible to dodge potential / actual bad weather. She put our safety and enjoyment at the forefront; the paths were very steep and the stones very slippery so I agree, it's not suitable in bad weather. But we got to explore towns we wouldn't have seen, and all her recommendations - for our free time and the final rainy day - were spot on. Every day Michela gave us options; ways you could skip a section, shorten a walk or do something a little different if either an injury or just by choice, you wanted a change from the group walk. This made the whole trip very accessible to everyone.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Do bring trekking poles and hiking boots, it's very uneven terrain. It was great to be based in one place - no packing & unpacking - but most of us brought more than we needed! A camelbak or bladder are very handy, to sip water constantly rather than use a bottle. Take note when there are beaches available that day - the water is stunning, so wear or take swimmers ...I was always keen to get my boots off and feet in the water, and would have swum if i'd had my cossie! Some days it's worth grabbing food in Moneglia where we stayed, so you have more time to chill out in the lunch stop...obv some people just wanted to head to a restaurant / bar, but it's nice to chill, head to the water etc as well...Ice cream is good everywhere but obv Michela knows the best spots! Tag days on before / after or both...Pisa has so much more to offer than the tower, and Lucca is stunning, very different and just 30 mins from Pisa by bus or train. Local transport is excellent and cheap, so you can see and do a lot in this region.
What a week - what a guide!
It’s hard to mess up a trip to the Cinque Terre, hut Exodus has really nailed this one. A well-paced itinerary put us in all the right places, and moneglia is a delightful place to stay. The hotel Piccolo is excellent – centrally located, family-run and scrupulously clean, it is hard to fault and somewhere I would happily visit again. One tip: ask for an upgrade when you arrive, the extra cost is definitely worth it. Saving the best to last, however, we were blessed to have Miki as our guide. She was incredibly attentive throughout the week, and was always 2 or 3 steps ahead in anticipating our needs. Hugely knowledgeable about her home region, she also has a great sense of humour, and always seemed to be genuinely happy to be with us. She is a jewel, and turned a great experience into an unforgettable one.
Most Inspirational Moment
Impossible to identify a single moment.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We were blessed to have Miki as our guide. She was incredibly attentive throughout the week, and was always 2 or 3 steps ahead in anticipating our needs. Hugely knowledgeable about her home region, she also has a great sense of humour, and always seemed to be genuinely happy to be with us. She is a jewel, and turned a great experience into an unforgettable one.
Steep walks, good food, great guide!
This was a great holiday walking in lovely countryside by the coast and visiting the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre and Portofino. The walks themselves were usually very steep and would not suit everyone, a good level of fitness is required although you don’t need to be a mountaineer. The hotel in Moneglia is on the beach and we were able to swim after the walk every day. I was away during the first week of October, I didn’t see any rain and the average daily temperature was 24-25C but the previous week had been wet so no guarantees!
Most Inspirational Moment
Completing the steepest walk up and down to Riomaggiore
Thoughts on Group Leader
Michela was an excellent leader, nothing was too much trouble for her and her organisational skills were exemplary. She was also very knowledgeable about the area we were in and happily fielded a multitude of questions. It's fair to say that she was responsible for making the holiday as enjoyable as it was.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Try and get some hill walking in at home before you arrive in Italy.
Suggestions
I have previously walked the Amalfi Coast with Exodus and this trip was a definite step up in terms of being more physically demanding.
Stunning Scenery
This was a thoroughly enjoyable trip. The location in Moneglia is superb. The beach right opposite is beautiful. The breakfasts were great in the Piccolo too. We loved the spectacular scenery of the Cinque Terre and Portofino although they are very busy locations. The best views are from above as you walk down towards them. We made wonderful new friends and enjoyed sharing meals and drinks with them. 100% recommendation.
Most Inspirational Moment
Making great friends and sharing the amazing views and experiences.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Mikaela was a superb leader and had a very friendly and accommodating manner. She had great sense of humour, was fun and made everything seem possible and enjoyable.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Walking boots not shoes are advisable and walking poles as some sections are steep or slippery.
Suggestions
Ask to book a balcony room in the Piccolo Hotel as rooms are quite dark and the views of the beach are perfect.
Fabulous walks and scenery
From the first day the scenery was just breathtaking. Walking can be a little challenging at times depending on fitness. Piccolo Hotel Moneglia very good. Lots of restaurants to eat out in of an evening. The villages are just as you imagine however can get very crowded. The group of people we walked with were great fun and a good mix of ages. A fabulous holiday.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing the villages from the paths. They are just stunning. Wine tasting in Moneglia with Lucca who was so knowledgeable and inspirational. We also had a fantastic meal at the restaurant.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Michela our group leader was lovely. So understated. Very efficient, knowledgeable about the area and managing the group in a gentle manner. A pleasure to walk with her.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Fitness does help with this walk as lots of ascents and descents. So get some training in before you go. However there are alternatives to some of the climbs. We had a room with a balcony over looking the sea. There is a supplement however it was worth it as these rooms are larger. The sandy beach at Moneglia is lovely and the swimming was excellent I am told.
Suggestions
If you love Italy and walking a super trip all round.
Walks of the Cinque Terre
This was my first trip not only with Exodus but on any walking group holiday. It could not have been better! The promise was to enjoy varied walks in stunning locations, and that was what was delivered. Key to the success of this holiday were the efforts of our guide Michela who worked tirelessly on all aspects of the of the trip and ensured the whole group had the very best of times.
Thoughts on Group Leader
I would highly recommend Michela, she was an excellent guide.
Cinque Terre
Trip was great, sites and scenery was amazing. One of the best places in Italy to visit. Our guide Michela was brilliant, well organised efficient and loads of fun as well. Nothing was to much trouble for her.
Most Inspirational Moment
Couldn’t pick one moment they were all really great
Thoughts on Group Leader
Michela was very very good. The best group leader of any trip so far and I’ve done quite a few.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Learn some Italian (with Dave)
Suggestions
Had a great time. Highly recommended.
Start
Finish
Availability
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Saturday Saturday
30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2023
Saturday Saturday
07 Oct 2023 07 Oct 2023
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Adult Price From AUD 2,779
Optional Single Supplement +AUD 820
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This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
07 Oct 2023 07 Oct 2023
Saturday Saturday
14 Oct 2023 14 Oct 2023
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+AUD 820
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
27 Apr 2024 27 Apr 2024
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04 May 2024 04 May 2024
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+AUD 861
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04 May 2024 04 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
11 May 2024 11 May 2024
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11 May 2024 11 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
18 May 2024 18 May 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
18 May 2024 18 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
25 May 2024 25 May 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
25 May 2024 25 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
01 Jun 2024 01 Jun 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
01 Jun 2024 01 Jun 2024
Saturday Saturday
08 Jun 2024 08 Jun 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
15 Jun 2024 15 Jun 2024
Saturday Saturday
22 Jun 2024 22 Jun 2024
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17 Aug 2024 17 Aug 2024
Saturday Saturday
24 Aug 2024 24 Aug 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
24 Aug 2024 24 Aug 2024
Saturday Saturday
31 Aug 2024 31 Aug 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
31 Aug 2024 31 Aug 2024
Saturday Saturday
07 Sep 2024 07 Sep 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
07 Sep 2024 07 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
14 Sep 2024 14 Sep 2024
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This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
14 Sep 2024 14 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
21 Sep 2024 21 Sep 2024
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Optional Single Supplement +AUD 861
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
21 Sep 2024 21 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
28 Sep 2024 28 Sep 2024
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Optional Single Supplement +AUD 861
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This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
28 Sep 2024 28 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
05 Oct 2024 05 Oct 2024
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Adult Price From AUD 2,979
Optional Single Supplement +AUD 861
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
05 Oct 2024 05 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
12 Oct 2024 12 Oct 2024
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Adult Price From AUD 2,979
Optional Single Supplement
+AUD 861
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
12 Oct 2024 12 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
19 Oct 2024 19 Oct 2024
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Adult Price From AUD 2,979
Optional Single Supplement +AUD 861
Availability
This trip is available on request. Please proceed with your booking online or contact our Sales Team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
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- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino
8 Days
from
8 Days
from