Enchanting Cinque Terre

Even if you’ve been to Italy before, it’s the kind of destination one could never get enough of. People visit the iconic country over and over again. Cities like Rome, Florence, or Venice are must-visit holidays in Italy, but why not side track to one of the smaller cities that are just as stunning? One such city that you just have to add to your travel plans is the Cinque Terre (pronounced CHEEN-kweh TEHR-reh) region consisting of 5 villages that will captivate you with their unsurpassed beauty. Located on the breath-taking Italian Riviera along the Ligurian coast in northern Italy, right between Tuscany and France, Cinque Terre translates to The Five Lands: Moterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore. Each village will charm you in its own unique way.

The appeal behind Cinque Terre (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) lies in the lack of modern development within its colourful architecture, as well as the fact that the villages are connected by walking paths, boats, ferries, and trains which means no cars. The most famous path is called the Blue Path of Cinque Terre which connects all five villages and is a popular trail among avid hikers. The traditional cuisine is one to die for. Enjoy exotic freshly prepared seafood dishes, homemade pasta, and a range of fresh vegetables and herbs, with a local specialty in anchovies. The locals claim that the pesto sauce, prepared from locally grown basil for the pasta, is actually the best in Italy. 

After feasting your eyes with the breath-taking panoramic views of the cliff-side towns combined with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, there are a range of beautiful churches and monuments to check out to complete your unforgettable holiday:

• Belforte Tower
• Il Gigante
• Santa Margherita d’Antoichia church
• Doria Castle
• The Church of San Pietro
• Ruins of the Genoise Fortification
• The Aurora Tower
• Church of San Francesco
• Anchovy Museum

The natural harbor of Vernazza gives an iconic view and this setting provides one of the most surreal sunsets on the planet. So, enjoy a delicious meal in one of the seaside restaurants, while taking in the breath-taking surroundings.

By Amal Ahmed