The Experience
From the Ligurian Coast to Timeless Tuscany
How do you prepare for this adventure? First you walk, and practice stopping suddenly. So that you’ll be ready for the spontaneous views – colorful villages clinging to cliffs with waves crashing below. Then pick the most delectable Chianti you can find. It won’t match the Classico in Panzano but it’s good practice. Finally get your fill of just-off-the-boat fresh seafood, hearty pork and beef, friendly people, rows of cypress, warm sunlight, patchwork hills and the blue Mediterranean. And you’ve got a good start.
Two distinct and beloved regions of Italy in one amazing trip
Hike the Cinque Terre’s spectacular coastline, with brightly colored cliffside villages
Outstanding seafood by the Mediterranean and simple hearty fare in Chianti
Stroll through archetypal Tuscan villages, vineyards and cypress-flanked lanes
Taste crisp Ligurian white wines and full-bodied Tuscan reds
Days 1-2 Two distinct regions of Italy in one amazing trip Hike through the dramatic landscape to Portovenere, taking in sweeping vistas of the Golfo della Spezia Feast on fresh seafood on Palmaria Island Explore the Cinque Terre’s spectacular coastline, a World Heritage site, by foot and train Well-groomed paths lined by ancient stone walls lead from stunning Riomaggiore through cliffside Manarola, quiet Corniglia and colorful Vernazza to inviting Monterosso al Mare.
Day 3 Pass trompe l’oeil-adorned villas en route to pretty Portofino, playground of the rich and famous A walk along Portofino’s postcard-perfect waterfront is a must before heading inland to Chianti.
Day 4 Stroll through quintessential Tuscan villages, vineyards and cypress-flanked lanes Enjoy the distant views of Siena as you walk from historical Badia a Passignano Abbey to Greve in Chianti, and perhaps shop for local delicacies Stroll to the medieval hamlet of Montefioralle as a classic Tuscan landscape spreads out before you Sip regional wines at a fun and informative tasting.
Days 5-6 Savor full-bodied Chianti reds and Tuscany’s simple hearty fare Bold balsamic vinegars dance across your tongue in ancient ridgetop Radda, the epicenter of Chianti Classico Visit Volpaia, a medieval village-turned-winery Soak up grand pastoral panoramas from the strada bianca, surrounded by vineyards.
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The Route
