The trail: Corniglia - San Bernardino - Vernazza
The Trail, described here on this page, is highlighted on the map. In case you are interested in the other route, just click on it to read more information, or visit the page “Hiking trails in the Cinque Terre”, where you can find the information on the main routes.
The current status of the trail (December 2024): open.
Some main information about the trail
Recommended direction: it would be better to start this trip from Corniglia.
The Trail description
Fifteen minutes on starting your way from Corniglia and you will see an intersection of the trails. The first one lead sideward Volastra (Manarola), and it is described on the page: the trail Manarola - Volastra - Corniglia, while the second leads to Cigoletta (mountain), where the descend to Vernazza starts. The trail is like a roller-coaster, running through a big number of vineyards, olive and lemon groves.
The trail leads over the forest and comes up to the top of Cigoletta, which has height of 611 metres (2000 ft.). It's the highest point in the Cinque Terre. Here the trail crosses the longest route of the Park, which stretches from Portovenere to Levanto through the tops of the hills. See more details on the other website: The High Path - AV5T (ex. #1).
Soon the trail goes down to the San Bernardino village, and you can contemplate an unforgettable view of Corniglia. The trail offers the most exciting landscapes in the Cinque Terre, so don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy them! On your way, you will see the Sanctuary of our Lady of Grace. The village is situated 385 metres (1175 ft.) above the sea.
You will need forty minutes to descend from San Bernardino to Vernazza. We highly recommend going down to the trail, but not to go up. There are two reasons for that:
- the hill is extremely steep, that's why climbing up will make you tired. What's more, you will miss the dramatic landscape behind your back;
- near Vernazza the trail wends its way through the paid stretch of the Azure Trail, but you can use it for free while descending. Otherwise, you will be asked to pay or show the Cinque Terre card on your way up.
The trail is not easy, so you can consider visiting a simpler trail, which connects Corniglia and Manarola.
