Gazing over the sea from your hotel perched above Monterosso al Mare, life is beautiful. Dotted with lemon trees and calla lilies, Monterosso is one of five remote fishing villages strung like jewels along the coast – Cinque Terre, “the five lands.” They’re now linked to the outside world by rail, but for centuries were accessible only by sea… or on foot, the best way to appreciate life in what is truly a world of its own. Take one of the world’s most spectacular coastal hikes, through terraced vineyards overlooking the sea from Monterosso to Vernazza – the “pearl of Cinque Terre.” Fall in love with village life… indelible seascape memories… and lunch in a sidewalk café, alive with the flavors of local wines, citrus, olives, and the catch of the day.
Hotel: Hotel Porto Roca, Monterosso al Mare, Italy
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity Level: Today includes fairly strenuous walks on uneven terrain between the villages; those who prefer not to walk can take the train.