Top Trips for Fall: Backroads -- Cinque Terre & Tuscany Walking & Hiking
Hike and feast through two distinct and beloved regions of Italy in one amazing trip with Backroads.
Backroads — Cinque Terre & Tuscany Walking & Hiking
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. The scenery will arrest you mid-step, so be ready. 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, patch-work hills and the blue Mediterranean. And you’ve got a good start.
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 Explore the Cinque Terre’s spectacular coastline, a World Heritage site, by foot, boat and train Well-groomed paths lined by ancient stone walls lead from stunning Riomaggiore through cliffside Manarola, quiet Corniglia, colorful Vernazza to inviting Monterosso al Mare.
Day 3: Crisp Ligurian white wines and sublime seafood by the Mediterranean Pass trompe l’oeil-adorned villas en route to pretty Portofino, playground of the rich and famous A stroll along Portofino’s postcard-perfect waterfront is must! Sip Ligurian vintages at a fun and informative tasting, then gear up for Chianti.
Day 4: Stroll through archetypal Tuscan villages, vineyards and cypress-flanked lanes Explore historic Greve in Chianti, shop for local delicacies and taste the region’s best wines at a renowned enoteca.
Days 5-6: Savor full-bodied Tuscan reds and Chianti’s simple hearty fare Bold balsamic vinegars dance across your tongue in ancient ridgetop Radda, of Chianti Classico fame Visit Volpaia, a medieval village-turned-winery Soak up grand pastoral panoramas from the strada bianca, surrounded by vineyards.
Cinque Terre & Tuscany Walking & Hiking: Numerous departures in September and October; six days, five nights; from $3,198.