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How difficult is the hike from Vernazza to Corniglia?

Experience this 2.1-mile point-to-point trail near Corniglia, Liguria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 14 min to complete.



The hike from Vernazza to Corniglia is part of the famous Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) in Italy's Cinque Terre and is generally rated as moderate in difficulty. While it is one of the shorter segments of the coastal path, covering about 3.2 kilometers (2 miles), it involves a significant amount of elevation gain and steep stone stairs. The trek usually takes between 90 minutes and 2 hours depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos. The most strenuous part occurs right at the start when leaving Vernazza, as you must climb a long, steep flight of stairs to reach the higher cliffside path. Once you gain altitude, the trail levels out somewhat, winding through beautiful olive groves, vineyards, and Mediterranean shrubland. The path is narrow and can be rocky or uneven in places, so "sure-footedness" and sturdy footwear are highly recommended. If you are hiking in the summer, the heat can make the climb feel much more difficult, as there is limited shade along the way. Despite the physical effort, the hike is widely considered rewarding because it offers some of the most iconic panoramic views of both Vernazza and Corniglia. You will need a "Cinque Terre Card" to access this specific trail, and it is always wise to check for trail closures due to weather or maintenance before setting out from the village.

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Monterosso Al Mare to Vernazza The trail portion between Monterroso Al Mare and Vernazza is the most difficult and challenging of all Cinque Terre trails. There are lots of narrow steps and stairs to hike up and down. You have to climb lots of hills up and down. Remember that you can hike in either direction.

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The most popular of these paths is the Sentiero Azzurro (blue trail) and it shows up as blue on most maps. Although it can be rigorous at times, it is the easiest, most direct route between Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso.

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Leaving Corniglia station behind (Street View 1 ), take the flat road that runs along the long wall of the railway up to the foot of via Lardarina, a rather easy staircase consisting of 33 ramps, for a total of 377 steps (photo 360°).

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Vernazza: Located to the north of the Cinque Terre, Vernazza is probably the most beautiful and picturesque fishing village of Cinque Terre, where its colourful houses hang above the sea level on rugged cliffs. It has a charming natural port and an old castle, built to protect the area from pirates.

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You can start from either direction (Monterosso, heading south, or Riomaggiore, heading north). But here's a tip: Start from Riomaggiore, where the paths are easier and paved, and work your way up to the more challenging trails. That way, you can stop at any time? and head to the nearest train station if you have to!

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If you want a much easier hike, definitely hike from Vernazza to Monterosso (and not vice versa). The trail is much easier and Monterosso has the best beach of all five villages — so you can relax on the beach after your hike! Be sure to bring water and snacks on your hike!

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Yes you can wear sandals to dinner, but on a rocky trail they could be a problem. A quick google search indicates that no flip flops, sandals, or pumps are allowed on the trails between the towns (fines range from 50-2500 euros depending on the intensity of a rescue mission).

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Corniglia is the only one of the five Cinque Terre towns that isn't a fishing town and you need to walk up around 365 steps to get there. That puts most people off and means that Corniglia is the Cinque Terre town with the fewest tourists.

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To reach Corniglia, it is necessary to climb the Lardarina, a long brick flight of steps composed of 33 flights with 383 steps or, otherwise follow a vehicular road that, from the station, leads to the village.

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To reach Corniglia, it is necessary to climb the Lardarina, a long brick flight of steps composed of 33 flights with 383 steps or, otherwise follow a vehicular road that, from the station, leads to the village.

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You have to skip Corniglia situated on top of a cliff 100 metres above sea level. If you are limited on time, take the train between the villages.

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