Current as of: April 19, 2024 - 22:54
Walking in the Cinque Terre and Portofino Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
- Destination: Italy
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 7 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 10+
- Trip Code: W06CT
Trip Overview
About sixty miles east of Genoa lies a corner of the Liguria region with a remarkably well-preserved landscape steeped in tradition. ‘Cinque Terre’ means five lands; villages which are nestled high on cliffs or along deep inaccessible coves, with colourful houses facing the seafront. Each village offers its own olive oils, anchovies and Sciacchetrà liqueur (known as the ‘Elixir of the Gods’). By day, you discover the beautiful peninsulas of Portofino and Sestri Levante using well-marked walking trails; in the evening enjoy the sunsets over the Mediterranean.
At a Glance
- 6 nights HB, all rooms en suite
- 5 days centre based walking
- Moderate walking on a variety of paths
- Low altitude throughout
- Self-guided trip. Minimum age 10 years
Highlights
- Coastal and countryside walking amongst olive groves and vineyards
- The chic town of Portofino
- Boat trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Palmaria Island
- The serene village of Sestri Levante
Is This Trip for You?
Activity Level: 3 (Moderate)
5 days optional centre-based walking, low altitude throughout.
This is a self-guided tour, so you can walk at your own pace (we recommend taking plenty of time to rest and enjoy the views!). Although some walks will get your pulse racing you will also have plenty of time to rest, admire the views and on many days you can also enjoy swim breaks. Over the course of the week, the terrain and type of path will vary from man made paved tracks and tarmac to forest trails. Some areas may be rocky underfoot with narrow, overgrown or exposed paths. Although the walks are not technically challenging, you do need to be steady on your feet. All walks take between 2 and 6 hours including lunch stops and require a moderate level of fitness. Please note that, as on all of our walking trips, when the weather is wet some of the paths can be slippy. The steep sections on Palmaria Island have ropes to help with this.
Public transport is recommended (the cost is not included in the trip) in order to reduce your carbon footprint. The transport timetables will be provided in your route notes so you can choose the bus or train time that suits you best.
As this is a self-guided tour, there will be no group or tour leader and you are free to complete the walks at your own speed.
You may find our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference: http://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/pdf/Exodus_WT_Fitness_Training_Guide.pdf
Group
As this is a self-guided tour there is no group and no leader. The tour is based at the same hotel for the 7 days and is managed by a local operator.
Adult min age: 10
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Sestri Levante
- End City: Sestri Levante
Flight Inclusive
- Start City: London
- End City: London
Land Only Itinerary
Start Sestri Levante
Make your way to Sestri Levante. Your B&B, Albergo Marina, is centrally located in Sestri Levante, is perfectly located, within easy walking distance of both the beach and the railway station.
The Cinque Terre National Park
The walk today really allows you to explore the National Park of the Cinque Terre. Starting from Monterosso, the largest of the celebrated Cinque Terre villages, climb through cultivated olive groves to the hilltop Sanctuary of the Madonna of Soviore. Then it’s downhill all the way to pastel-coloured Vernazza, clustered around its serene natural harbour. There’s time to explore the village before returning by train to Sestri.
Palmaria Island
Make your way to Portovenere then take a boat to Palmaria island. Rich in Mediterranean vegetation and maquis shrubland, it’s not unusual to see cistus and rare orchids blooming here. A circular walk with stunning coastal vistas takes you via a steep climb to the Batteria Semaforo, part of the network of fortresses constructed by Napoleon to secure the Gulf of La Spezia. Return to Sestri Levante in time for dinner.
Corniglia and Manarola
Take a train to picture perfect Corniglia, a charming jumble of pastel-hued houses toppling prettily down the hillside. Follow the narrow herb scented paths through vineyards up to the tiny yet panoramic village of Volastra and its 12th century sanctuary, then descend to arguably the oldest of the five Cinque Terre villages, colourful Manarola. Wander around the pretty marina and try the local wine – Schiacchetra – which is produced here, before taking the train back to Sestri Levante.
Riomaggiore to Portovenere
Today you take a train to Riomaggiore, the last of the Cinque Terre villages and walk along an impossibly panoramic path that hugs the coastline all the way to the charming fishing port of Portovenere. Set in a beautiful sweeping bay, and once the haunt of Byron and Shelley, there’s a 16th century castle and medieval churches to explore before returning to Sestri Levante.
Portofino
After breakfast take a train to Camogli, and then a bus to Ruta di Camogli, and the start of the walk. Follow ancient forest trails through the lush Mount Portofinla Natural Park to San Fruttuoso and its 11th century abbey. Continue to chic Portofino, the Ligurian Riviera’s most exclusive resort, before returning via Santa Magherita Ligure for your last night in Sestri Levante.
End Sestri Levante
Make your own way back to the airport, or add on additional nights in Pisa if you wish.
Ascents, descents and distances
All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Hotels
You will spend 6 nights in the charming 3-star Albergo Marina, centrally located in Sestri Levante, within easy walking distance of both the beach and the railway station. All the ensuite rooms are comfortable and equipped with air conditioning, with the hotel also coming with lift, sun terrace, bar and billiard room. Six evening meals at the hotel’s restaurant are included throughout your stay in Sestri Levante. Please note that a local tourist tax is payable direct to the Albergo Marina; this is €1.50 per person per day.
Additional Accommodation
Extra nights accommodation is available at Hotel Alessandro della Spina, Pisa located just 500m from Pisa central train station and just a 10 minute walk from most of the city’s main monuments. This modern and cosy property welcomes its guests with an elegant, warm atmosphere, enhanced by its charming garden, and friendly staff that are always on hand to ensure you a relaxed stay.
Hotel facilities include internet and wi-fi access in the lobby and a bar and comfortable seating area. Guest rooms are spacious, furnished with wood and marble and have air conditioning, a safe and satellite TV. Buffet breakfast includes homemade bread and croissants.
Please contact us for details.
Single supplement from £ 364
Food & Drink
Liguria is well-known for its delicious cuisine and classic regional dishes include pasta with pesto or walnut sauce, focaccia bread and of course plenty of seafood! With an abundance of fresh local produce and plenty of restaurants to try in Sestri Levante, food is a highlight of the trip. Vegetarians are well-catered for in Italy.
Transport
This trip uses public transport to access the walks. All timetables will be provided in your route notes.
Weather & Seasonality
April and May departures can expect warm days, although rain is always possible. Nights may be rather cool. Early June is similar, with the days becoming progressively hotter and the evenings much warmer. Late June to August departures should expect very warm weather with temperatures over 30 degrees celsius. Late September and October are cooler and can be wetter, however visibility is better. We strongly recommend a fleece-lined jacket or warm sweater in May, September and October.
Weather Charts
Weather chart
Joining Instructions
Your trip normally starts at our hotel in Sestri Levante on the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start hotel are given in the Final Joining Instructions.
Flights from London
Our flight inclusive price includes Heathrow to Pisa flights with British Airways.
Out: British Airways Heathrow to Pisa 07:10/10:25 then train Pisa Centrale to Sestri Leveante 13:02/14:42, walk to hotel 500m. Return: Walk to train station 500m, train Sestri Levante to Pisa Centrale 10:38/12:17 then British Airways Pisa to Heathrow 17:00/18:20.
Regional flights
The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure to Pisa airport and then rail to Sestri Levante, but we are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport, or into Genoa airport.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Sestri Levante
Location end: Sestri Levante
Regional Flights
The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please ask about flights from local or regional airports.
If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international check-in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1.5 hours at Heathrow; this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is known to be subject to delays.
Transfer Details
Rail transfers are only included in the flight inclusive price for this trip, but are available at a supplement if booking tour only. Transfers from Genoa airport are also available at a supplement. Please ask your sales agent at the time of booking.
What To Take
Essential Equipment
Light walking boots (with good tread and ankle support)
Small sized day sack (30 litres capacity will suffice for camera and water bottle)
Sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses
Towel for beach use Waterproofs and warm clothes (for inclement weather)
Water bottle (preferably with 2-litre capacity)
Sandals
Optional Equipment
Walking poles
Small umbrella in case of unexpected showers
Swimwear
Practical Information
Passport
Passports: check if you need to renew
You may need to renew your British passport earlier if you’re travelling from 1 January 2021.
On the day you travel, you’ll need your passport to both:
- have at least 3 months left after the day you plan to leave the country (check the ‘expiry date’)
- be less than 10 years old (even if it has 6 months or more left – check the ‘date of issue’)
Certain European nationalities may be able to travel within Europe on their national identity card. Check carefully with the relevant authorities if you intend to do this.
Visa
Italy
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/italy
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Italy.html
Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.
Vaccinations and Health
Italy
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
There are no specific health risks on this trip.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Italy's time zone: Europe/Rome (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Standard European 2-pin plug
Money
Italy's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
ATMs are widely available in Sestri Levante and in all the major towns visited. Most places take major credit cards, however, cash is generally easier.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
We recommend you allow about €5-15 per day for lunch, depending on whether you have a picnic, snack or a light restaurant meal. For evening meals not included you should allow about €15-30 including drinks, although it is possible to spend more than this if you choose expensive dishes. You will also need some local currency for extra snacks and drinks bought from the occasional café.
You should allow a total of €70-80 to cover public transport (bus, train and boat) expenses which are not included in the trip price.
Responsible Travel
At Exodus we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.
Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here…
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.