Hiking to Vernazza

On our trips to Cinque Terre, we often take the path along the Mediterranean from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, the next village south.  We decide to do that today and leave Hotel Villa Steno, head down to the beach, and turn left to find the beginning of the trail, passing the private/pay beach (with lounge chairs and umbrellas) and then the public (free) beach (with sand and rocks).

Private beach

Public Beach

Looking back at both beaches as we start

The trail initially heads up the hill past Hotel Porta Roca and turns south on a ridge along the coast, through vineyards, olive groves, and forests.

Heading up

Along the ridge

Looking back at Monterosso

Looking south toward the other four villages

Continuing along the trail

Monterosso getting farther away

Soon, we round a corner and see Vernazza in the distance.

Continuing along the trail

Vernazza comes into view

Monterosso around the corner farther behind us

The path continues along the ridge, then descends into Vernazza, bringing us out into the narrow streets of the village that flow into the main street (Via Roma) and down to the main square at the harbor (Piazza Marconi).

Path continues, then descends to town

Descending into Vernazza

We decide to explore the town and find some lunch.