Ask anyone who has walked it, and they'll tell you the same thing: the trail from Levanto to Monterosso al Mare, via Punta Mesco, is the most panoramic hike on this entire coast. It's part of the Alta Via delle Cinque Terre, and unlike the Sentiero Azzurro below, it's completely free, no Cinque Terre Card required.
- Walking time: around 2.5 hours
- Trail markers: white-red, CAI trail n°1, joining trail n°10 for the final descent into Monterosso
The route, step by step
The path begins at Castello De Rossi, built on the site of the old Malaspina castle. From there, a wide cobbled street climbs steeply above the park of Villa Agnelli, opening up a first, wide view over Levanto and its bay.
A little further on stands Casa Massola, the so-called "Red House", famous for one specific reason: in 1930-31, Guglielmo Marconi carried out his first short-wave transmission experiments from its terrace. A white marble plaque still marks the spot.
From there, the path threads between villas and into woodland, and the landscape shifts, almost fairy-tale-like, before opening onto Mediterranean scrubland in full variety: heather, myrtle, arbutus, mastic, pine and Aleppo pine.
A flat stretch signals the arrival at Case Lovara (248m), where the trail changes character entirely: large stone steps carry you up a spectacular section that repeatedly faces the raw, craggy coastline below.
The climb continues to Sella del Torrino (360m), where the ruins of an old watchtower still stand, then on towards Selletta del Mesco (310m). A short detour to the right leads to the ruins of the 13th-century Church of Sant'Antonio, worth the few extra minutes for the view alone and a natural place to stop.
Back at the fork, follow marker n°10 towards Monterosso. From here begins the long stepped descent that ends at Fegina beach, with the unmistakable bulk of the Giant, a reinforced concrete statue of Neptune holding up a shell-shaped terrace, marking the finish line.
If you'd rather walk longer for even better views, the alternative via Colla Bagari and the Shrine of Soviore extends the day considerably and is worth it if you have the legs and the time for it.
Good to know before you go
Trail conditions on this coast can change with weather and maintenance work, so it's worth checking the current status with the Cinque Terre National Park before setting off, particularly after heavy rain. Bring proper footwear, water and sun protection; our packing guide covers exactly what to carry on a hike like this one. And because this trail isn't part of the paid circuit, you won't need the Cinque Terre Card for it, though you may still want one for train travel afterwards.
For more route recommendations from someone who walks these trails regularly, see Silvia's Cinque Terre hiking tips.
Further reading:
The ultimate guide to the Cinque Terre Card: https://www.oasihotel.eu/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-cinque-terre-card
What to pack for Cinque Terre: https://www.oasihotel.eu/blog/what-to-pack-for-cinque-terre
Real hiking routes and trekking tips, from Silvia's Trips: https://silvias-trips.com/cinque-terre-hiking-tips/
FAQ
Do I need the Cinque Terre Card for this trail?
No. The Levanto to Monterosso trail via Punta Mesco is free, unlike the Sentiero Azzurro between Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso, which does require the card.
How long does the hike take?
Around 2.5 hours at a steady pace, though it's worth allowing extra time if you plan to stop at the ruins of the Church of Sant'Antonio or take the longer route via Soviore.
Is the trail difficult?
It's a proper hike with real elevation gain, particularly the stepped section after Case Lovara. Good footwear is essential, and it isn't a trail for very young children or anyone looking for a flat, easy walk.
Where does the trail start and end?
It starts at Castello De Rossi in Levanto and ends at Fegina beach in Monterosso al Mare, following CAI trail markers n°1 and n°10.
