Corniglia

Corniglia, with its unique position, perched on the top of the rocky cliff, is strategically and aesthetically different to the other four villages that make up the Cinque Terre. Due to its elevated position it is the quietest of the villages and can be reached via the hiking trails from Vernazza (Blue path: 3.5km, 90 minute walk or via the ‘Scalinata Lardarina’ a footpath made up of almost 400 steps that zig zags up from the station of Corniglia to the village. In alternative there is a little shuttle bus that takes you there from the train station for which you can buy tickets at the tourist office for 1 euro 50.

Unlike the other villages, there is no access to the sea, but you have panaromic sea views looking both towards Monterosso and Riomaggiore that come unexpectedly into view from the steps and squares in the village. Surrounded by vineyards and cultivated land . In the main square, Largo Taragio, you will find places to sit and enjoy a drink while soaking in the atmosphere. Of interest is the oratory of Santa Caterina with its panoramic terrace and the Monument of the Fallen or you can take the alleyway ‘Via Feischi’ which takes you to the Gothic style Church of San Pietro built in 1334.

Arriving by train: There is a direct train from both Genova and La Spezia but the fast trains only stop at Monterosso so make sure the train stops at Corniglia. If you are travelling by car you will have to take the road to Vernazza and then wind your way along the curvy road another 20 minutes to Corniglia. There is limited free and meter parking at the top of the village but the village itself is pedestrianized.