Monterosso al Mare, the largest and arguably most vibrant of the five villages that make up Italy’s stunning Cinque Terre, offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and seaside charm.
Nestled along the rugged Ligurian coastline, Monterosso has a rich history dating back to the 9th century, when it was established as a strategic settlement to protect against pirate invasions.
Over the centuries, it grew into a thriving fishing village, and today it stands as a beloved destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion. Known for its wide sandy beaches — a rarity in Cinque Terre — Monterosso is divided into two distinct sections: the historic old town, with its medieval streets and ancient structures, and the newer Fegina neighborhood, home to the iconic beachfront promenade. With its stunning views, vibrant local cuisine, and deep connection to the sea, Monterosso invites visitors to slow down, savor fresh seafood, and immerse themselves in the timeless rhythm of coastal Italian life.
The Same
Both the DINKs and The Family had the chance to explore Monterrossa and the other villages of Cinque Terre. However, with a longer stay, the DINKs were able to immerse themselves more fully in the local culture, uncovering hidden gems and enjoying a few extra experiences along the way.
Monterosso Beach:
Spend a relaxing day soaking up the sun on Monterosso’s beautiful sandy beach. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Unfortunately, it was too cold when we both visited so neither of us got in the water.
Hiking Trails:
The Monterosso-Vernazza Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in Cinque Terre, offering breathtaking views of the Ligurian coastline and the vibrant villages below. This scenic path connects the northernmost village of Monterosso al Mare with nearby Vernazza, winding through terraced vineyards, olive groves, and rugged cliffs. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with panoramic sea views, charming stone pathways, and glimpses of both villages from stunning vantage points. Though the trail can be steep and challenging in places, the natural beauty and sense of adventure make it a must for visitors looking to fully experience the magic of Cinque Terre. Be sure to bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and allow plenty of time to soak in the views and capture photos along the way.
Unfortunately this is “the same” because it was a miss for both the family and the Dinks. The family’s visit was too short to squeeze it in and unfortunately it had been raining so much when the Dinks visited it was closed.
Monterosso Old Town:
Wander through the narrow streets of Monterosso’s historic Old Town, where you’ll find charming shops, cafes, and gelaterias. Admire the colorful buildings and medieval architecture as you explore this quaint area.
- San Giovanni Battista Church: Visit the San Giovanni Battista Church, located in Monterosso’s Old Town. This beautiful church dates back to the 13th century and features a striking black-and-white striped facade.
- Giant Statue of Neptune: Admire the Giant Statue of Neptune, a striking sculpture located on a promontory overlooking the sea. This iconic landmark is a symbol of Monterosso and offers stunning views of the coastline.
The Dinks
We stayed in Monterosso during our week long stay in Cinque Terra and thought it was the perfect home base.
Hotel Vill Steno
Hotel Villa Steno is a charming and intimate hotel located in Monterosso al Mare, one of the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre. This family-run hotel offers stunning views of the Ligurian Sea and the surrounding hills, providing a peaceful retreat while still being within walking distance of Monterosso’s historic center and beautiful beaches.
The hotel is known for its friendly service, welcoming atmosphere, and cozy, well-appointed rooms, many of which come with balconies or terraces where guests can enjoy the scenery. The breakfast served at Villa Steno is a highlight, featuring fresh local ingredients, pastries, and coffee, perfect for starting a day of exploration. I mean the stuffed tomatoes were fresh from their garden! Guests can relax in the hotel’s garden, unwind on the terrace, or take advantage of the tranquil surroundings.
Due to its elevated position, guests may have to walk uphill from the train station, but the views and peaceful environment make it well worth the effort. Hotel Villa Steno provides an excellent base for exploring the Cinque Terre region, offering both comfort and a true taste of local hospitality.
Vinery Buranco
Vinery Buranco, located in Monterosso al Mare, is a family-owned winery that offers visitors a unique and authentic experience of the Cinque Terre’s winemaking tradition. The winery is situated in a scenic location with stunning views of the Ligurian Sea and the surrounding hills, providing an idyllic setting to enjoy its wines. It was a bit of a hike up to the vinery but well worth it.
Buranco is particularly known for its production of local Ligurian wines, especially the famous Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine made from dried grapes grown in the region’s steep, terraced vineyards. The winery also produces a variety of white and red wines, made using traditional methods and the region’s indigenous grape varieties. Visitors to Vinery Buranco can take guided tours of the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample the wines while taking in the breathtaking views.
In addition to wine tastings, Buranco offers an intimate and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the Cinque Terre. I especially loved the kittens that came to visit us during our tasting.
The Family
The family only had a day to explore Cinque Terre, so their time in each of the five towns was limited to just a couple of hours. Unfortunately, this meant they weren’t able to dive deeper into the local culture or explore beyond the shared experiences of walking the scenic trails, enjoying the coastal views, and taking in the charming atmosphere. While they thoroughly enjoyed the highlights of each town, their brief visit left them wanting more, especially when it came to experiencing the unique flavors, history, and activities that each town offers.
Summary
Monterosso al Mare is a captivating destination that offers a perfect mix of history, breathtaking scenery, and the charm of coastal Italian life. Whether visiting for a short time or staying longer to fully immerse yourself in the culture, there is something for everyone in this beautiful town. The DINKs had the opportunity to explore Monterosso more deeply, from staying in the tranquil Hotel Villa Steno to savoring local wines at Vinery Buranco. While the family’s brief visit didn’t allow for as much exploration, they still enjoyed the main highlights of Monterosso, leaving them eager to return and experience more. Monterosso’s unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for both short visits and extended stays, offering unforgettable experiences for all types of travelers.
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