First things first: bring a backpack, not a trolley or a hard suitcase. There are steps everywhere, starting at the train station, and hauling a suitcase up steep, narrow alleys gets old fast.
Levanto itself is flatter, but you'll still find steps at the station and on the InterCity trains. If you're driving to us, none of this matters, we have private parking in the basement with a lift straight up to your room.
What to pack, hiking or not
Pack light. This isn't a dressy area and people are easygoing, so you won't need evening gowns or heels.
From May to October:
- Swimsuit
- T-shirts and tops for the length of your stay
- Shorts for walking and light hiking
- A dress or shirt for the evening
- Flip-flops for the beach
- Trainers for hiking
- Socks, and an extra pair just in case
- A light sweater or a sweatshirt for the evening
From November onwards:
- A waterproof jacket for rain and wind
- T-shirts and tops for the length of your stay
- Light trousers for walking and hiking
- A dress or shirt for the evening
- Trainers for hiking in good weather, hiking boots if it's wet
- Socks, and an extra pair just in case
- A sweater or a sweatshirt for the evening
- A jacket
What to carry on a hike:
- A light backpack
- Swimsuit
- Sun protection
- Insect repellent
- A hat
- Sunglasses
- A refillable water bottle or thermos
- Camera
You won't need to bring: beach towels or hiking maps, we provide both. In the bathroom you'll find shampoo, shower gel, body lotion, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, and a hairdryer. We also have an iron and board available on request.
A personal tip: always keep a spare set of clothes in your carry-on. Luggage goes missing more often than you'd think, and getting it delivered to the hotel can take a few days. For more on travelling light, see Silvia's packing tips.
Hiking in Cinque Terre
The trails are mostly hard-packed dirt or loose stone, with plenty of climbing, especially on the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail). This is proper hiking, not a stroll, and most paths are narrow and steep, so we wouldn't recommend them with young children.
The paid trails, the Sentiero Azzurro and the Via dell'Amore, both require the Cinque Terre Card. Every other trail is free and far less crowded, including the Alta Via delle Cinque Terre and the walk from Levanto to Monterosso via Punta Mesco. For route recommendations from someone who actually walks them, see Silvia's Cinque Terre hiking tips.
Every month, the Cinque Terre National Park organises guided walks, hiking tours and wine tastings through the Cinque Terre Walking Park programme.
FAQ
Should I bring a suitcase or a backpack?
A backpack. Cinque Terre villages are full of steps and narrow alleys, and a wheeled suitcase becomes a real hassle fast. If you're driving to the Oasi, this matters less, we have private parking and a lift.
Do I need hiking boots?
Trainers are fine for most trails in good weather. Proper hiking boots help on the Sentiero Azzurro or in wet conditions, since the terrain is uneven and can get slippery.
Do I need to bring a beach towel?
No, we provide beach towels, along with basic toiletries, a hairdryer, and an iron and board on request.
Which trails require the Cinque Terre Card?
The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) between Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso, and the Via dell'Amore between Riomaggiore and Manarola. All other trails are free.
