Cinque terre: The trekking of the Sanctuaries

Explore the Cinque Terre: The Trekking of the Sanctuaries, an 8-hour adventure that takes you through some of the most authentic and less trodden paths in Liguria, Italy. Starting in Monterosso al Mare, this tour combines scenic hikes, visits to historic sanctuaries, and a taste of local Ligurian cuisine. Led by guides fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, this experience appeals to those eager to experience the natural beauty and spiritual sites away from crowded tourist routes.

The tour offers a balanced mix of outdoor activity, cultural discovery, and culinary highlights, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences. The 8-hour itinerary includes a typical Ligurian breakfast, visits to two of the oldest sanctuaries in the area, and opportunities to enjoy breathtaking vistas over the sea and the villages. A key feature is the focus on less traveled paths, providing a quieter, more intimate view of the Cinque Terre.

While the tour is rich in natural beauty and cultural interest, participants should be prepared for moderate hiking that requires suitable hiking shoes and outdoor clothing. The tour’s pace is designed to be comfortable, with scheduled breaks including a lunch stop near the sanctuaries and a chance to sample authentic Ligurian pesto focaccia at a historic bakery.

Key Points

• 8-hour guided trekking tour starting from Monterosso al Mare
• Walk less traveled paths with breathtaking views of Cinque Terre
• Visit two of the oldest sanctuaries in the region, including the Sanctuary of Soviore
• Enjoy a typical Ligurian breakfast of focaccia and cappuccino before hikes
• Stop at Sanctuary of Madonna Reggio for a relaxing shade break
• Finish in Vernazza, exploring the village and tasting authentic Ligurian pesto focaccia

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point in Monterosso al Mare and Meeting Logistics

The tour begins in Monterosso al Mare, at a meeting point directly in front of the train station, located at coordinates 44.14518356323242, 9.646379470825195. This convenient location makes it easy to join the group without extra travel logistics. The small group size and the local guides fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian help create an engaging and personalized experience.

Participants should arrive ready for a full day, with outdoor clothing, snacks, and a reusable water bottle. The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the pay later option allows for flexible booking, ideal for travelers with changing plans.

Exploring La Via dei Santuari: The Path Less Traveled

The core of this experience is the walk along the Via dei Santuari, a network of paths that connect the sanctuaries above Cinque Terre. This route is notably less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere far from typical tourist spots. The three-hour hike to the Sanctuary of Soviore reveals stunning vistas over the coastline, with views that open up gradually as the trail ascends.

The path is characterized by authentic nature, with little-trodden trails leading through lush greenery. This section of the hike offers a genuine sense of tranquility and connection to the landscape, perfect for those seeking a moderate outdoor activity with rewarding scenery.

Visiting the Sanctuary of Soviore: A Historic Religious Site

The Sanctuary of Soviore is one of the oldest sanctuaries in Cinque Terre. After a three-hour hike, visitors arrive at this historic site, which has served as a place of worship for centuries. The sanctuary’s architecture and serene surroundings offer a peaceful stop amid the lush landscape, with panoramic views over the coast.

Following the visit, the group enjoys a lunch break in the shade of the sanctuary, allowing time to relax and appreciate the quiet beauty of the area. The sanctuary’s location provides stunning overlooks of the sea, making it a highlight of the hike.

Descending to Vernazza and the Sanctuary of Madonna Reggio

After the morning’s hike, the tour continues with a descent toward Vernazza, one of the most picturesque villages in Cinque Terre. Along the way, the group pauses at the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Reggio, famous for its shaded rest area and historical significance.

In Vernazza, the tour explores the village’s charm, including a stop at one of the oldest bakeries in the area. Here, visitors get to taste authentic Ligurian pesto focaccia, a flavorful highlight of the trip. The village’s colorful houses and lively harbor provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxed exploration.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Unique Appeal of the Sanctuaries Above Cinque Terre

This tour emphasizes the spiritual and historical significance of the sanctuaries, which are some of the oldest in the region. The Sanctuary of Soviore and the Sanctuary of Madonna Reggio serve as quiet retreats with spectacular views that showcase the coastline from a different perspective.

Participants appreciate the less crowded paths that lead to these sanctuaries, offering a more intimate experience compared to busier tourist spots. The sanctuaries’ architecture, history, and natural surroundings combine to create memorable moments during the hike.

The Scenic Hike from Monterosso to Vernazza

The full 8-hour itinerary covers a scenic route, starting in Monterosso and ending in Vernazza. The hiking segments are carefully paced, with enough time allocated for breaks, sightseeing, and culinary tastings. The trail offers breathtaking vistas of the coast and the villages, providing excellent photo opportunities along the way.

Participants should be prepared for moderate hikes that require hiking shoes and outdoor clothing. The route is designed to maximize scenic beauty while maintaining a comfortable pace, making it suitable for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures but prefer a slower, contemplative pace.

Tasting Ligurian Flavors in Vernazza

A key highlight is the lunch break in Vernazza, where the group visits a historic bakery. Here, the authentic Ligurian pesto focaccia is served, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage. This simple yet flavorful snack complements the scenic walk, leaving guests with a taste of local tradition.

Throughout the day, guides share insights into Liguria’s culinary culture, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. The emphasis on local foods adds a satisfying conclusion to the adventure.

Practical Details: What to Bring and How to Prepare

Participants should bring snacks for the day, along with hiking shoes, outdoor clothing, and a reusable water bottle. The tour is designed for those comfortable with moderate hiking, and the physical effort is balanced with plenty of rest stops.

The meeting point is easy to find, and the group size remains manageable, ensuring personalized guidance. Flexible cancellation and pay later options make booking straightforward, especially for spontaneous travelers.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Cinque Terre

The focus on less traveled paths and sanctuaries makes this tour ideal for travelers seeking a more authentic and peaceful experience. Unlike crowded boat rides or typical sightseeing tours, this adventure offers a serene connection with nature and history.

The combination of hiking, cultural visits, and culinary tastings delivers a well-rounded day that balances activity with relaxation. The expert guides enhance the experience with stories and insights that deepen appreciation for the landscape and heritage.

Cinque Terre: The Trekking of the Sanctuaries – Final Thoughts

This tour provides an immersive journey through the spiritual and natural landscape of Cinque Terre. Its emphasis on quiet, scenic paths and historic sanctuaries makes it especially appealing for those who want to see a different side of this iconic region.

While the moderate hikes require some physical preparation, the rewards are plentiful: breathtaking views, meaningful visits to ancient sanctuaries, and a taste of authentic Ligurian cuisine. Travelers who appreciate outdoor exploration combined with cultural depth will find this experience both enriching and memorable.

This tour suits active travelers, history enthusiasts, and food lovers eager to explore off-the-beaten-path locations. It offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and authentic regional charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 8 hours, starting from Monterosso al Mare and ending in Vernazza.

What should I bring for the hike?
Participants should bring snacks, hiking shoes, outdoor clothing, and a reusable water bottle.

Are there any visits to religious sites?
Yes, the tour visits two of the oldest sanctuaries in the Cinque Terre: Sanctuary of Soviore and Sanctuary of Madonna Reggio.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The hike is moderate and includes less traveled paths, so participants should be comfortable with outdoor activity, but it is suitable for most who enjoy walking and nature.

Is food included during the tour?
A typical Ligurian breakfast is included at the start, and the lunch break features authentic pesto focaccia at a historic bakery.

Explore the hidden sanctuaries and scenic trails of Cinque Terre with this thoughtfully curated trekking experience, blending nature, history, and regional flavors in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby