Tucked along the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera lies a sun-kissed paradise that often feels too magical to be real ā Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five picturesque villages that make up the iconic Cinque Terre in Liguria.
Whether you’re wandering its medieval streets, tasting local pesto, or simply soaking up the sea breeze on the beach, Monterosso offers a perfect mix of relaxation, history, and adventure.
šļø The Beach Life
Unlike its neighboring villages, Monterosso boasts a long, sandy beach ā a rare treasure in this rocky region. The beach is divided into public and private sections, lined with classic orange-and-green striped umbrellas that create a postcard-perfect scene.
Whether you’re here to swim in the crystal-clear Ligurian Sea or sip a spritz while watching the sunset, Fegina Beach is the place to be.
š° Old Town vs. New Town
Monterosso is split into two main areas:
- Borgo Antico (Old Town): A charming tangle of narrow alleys, pastel houses, wine bars, and local boutiques. Here, you can find the Church of San Giovanni Battista, with its striking black-and-white stripes, and the ruins of the old Genovese castle.
- Fegina (New Town): More modern and lively, with seafront promenades, gelato shops, and the iconic Giant Statue (“Il Gigante”), a weathered Neptune carved into the cliffs.
The two areas are connected by a pedestrian tunnel or a short, scenic walk around the headland.
š„¾ Hiking the Cinque Terre Trails
Monterosso is a hiker’s dream. The famous Sentiero Azzurro trail starts (or ends) here, winding along the cliffs between all five Cinque Terre towns. The hike to Vernazza is one of the most popular ā about 2 hours of spectacular views, terraced vineyards, and photo-worthy pit stops.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, and check trail conditions before heading out.
š Eat Like a Local
Liguria is the birthplace of pesto, and Monterosso does it right. Donāt miss:
- Trofie al Pesto: Twisted pasta smothered in fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmigiano.
- Anchovies from Monterosso: A local delicacy, often served marinated or fried.
- Limoncino: A regional lemon liqueur, perfect for an after-dinner sip.
šļø Where to Stay
From family-run guesthouses to seaside hotels, Monterosso offers a wider range of accommodation than the other Cinque Terre villages ā and it’s the only one with larger hotels. Booking early is key, especially in spring and summer.
š Getting There
Monterosso is well-connected by train, with direct services from La Spezia, Genoa, and even Milan. Cars are discouraged, as parking is limited and the villages are best explored on foot or by train.
šø Donāt Missā¦
- Sunset at the promenade in Fegina
- A stroll through the lemon groves above town
- Shopping for handmade ceramics and local wine
Final Thoughts
Monterosso isnāt just a stop on a Cinque Terre checklist ā itās a destination in its own right. With its unique blend of beach town charm, historical depth, and laid-back vibe, this Ligurian jewel captures the heart of every traveler lucky enough to visit.
Have you been to Monterosso? Planning your trip? Let me know in the comments below ā Iād love to hear your favorite spots or tips! šš®š¹āØ
