Corniglia Things to Do

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This is one of the most difficult paths of the four trails. Its a hour and a half hike over rocky, winding paths that take you up into the mountain. The ascensions are steep and unforgiving, so be sure to have the proper footwear if your planning to do this trail. The first major ascension is about ten minutes into the hike and then the second major one is about 30 minutes after that. However it is well worth the effort, you will be rewarded with pleasure of seeing Cinque Terre in its natural state. You will walk through groves of trees with glimpses of the ocean between the branches, you will experience more privacy along this trail then you do with the trails between Riomaggiore to Maranola, and then Maranola to Corniglia. Be sure to bring plenty of water and fruit with you on this hike.

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Corniglia is an interesting place to just walk around - it is small and won't take very long. There are interesting things around just about every corner. Here are a few shots I took while walking around - one is designed to make it easier to get wheeled items up and down the numerous steps in town.

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There were several cute dogs and cats who were either sound asleep or keeping an eye on things. It is always fun to see local animals enjoying themselves. One cat seemed to be the official greeting committee in the piazza in front of the church.

Because Corniglia has no direct connection to the sea, it is far less visited than its sister villages. This means less tourists, and a better chance to observe local Italians going about their daily routine. Women watch activity in the square below from their bright green windows, old men catch up on current events and local new on a shady bench, and men greet store owners in passing. The presence of so many locals and so few tourists made Corniglia feel like to most authentic community of the Cinque Terre villages. Observing life here was a truly memorable experience.

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If walking to Corniglia on the trail from Vernazza, look for the terraced vineyards along the hillsides. It is from these vineyards that the famous Vino delle Cinque Terre is made. In the summer season, grapes can be seen growing along the path. Stop to watch locals test them for flavor and before placing them in a bucket destined for the winery.

From the parking lot at the top of the village, take the long and winding road indicating the direction of Manarola. The paved road passed small vineyards and crumbling dwellings before giving way to a dirt path at the bottom of the hill. The path provides stunning sea view below and a peak at the village of Volastra, located in the hills high above. Those who do not wish to test their endurance will find this path to be less rugged and exhausting than those connecting Corniglia to Vernazza and Vernazza to Monterosso. Allow approximately 45 minutes to one hour to complete the hike, which terminates at Punta Bonfiglio, a picture-perfect point across the harbor from Manarola.

The Italian Riviera provides exceptional hikes with stunning sea views. If your time is limited in the Cinque Terre, at least take the 1 1/2 hour walk from Vernazza to Corniglia. The trail begins with a steep climb up carved rock stairs, ending with a sweeping view of the Ligurian Sea and a picture-perfect glimpse of Vernazza. The trail winds through the terraced hills, passing through quiet olive groves. Notice the nets spread on the ground to catch the olives. Along the path, stop to absorb brilliant views of the Italian coast and search for grapes and basil growing nearby. The final stretch of trail to Corniglia snakes up and down over small bridges and along small vineyards before ending in a parking lot at the top of town.

From Corniglia you can walk leg no. 3 of the Sentiero Azurro, to Vernazza. The path leads along vineyards and olive groves. The views are magnificent. Total hiking time is about one and a half hours.