All About Italy's Path Of Love As It Reopens After A Decade

The romantic walkway of Via dell’Amore (“Path of Love”) is once again welcoming visitors after a lengthy refurbishment and an overall investment of more than INR 2 billion (USD 24 million), the Italian Tourism Ministry has said. The trail had been closed since September 2012 after a landslide that injured four Australian tourists.

Here's everything you need to know about visiting the Via dell'Amore.

All About 'The Way Of Love'

The 900-metre panoramic route overlooks the sea and is located between the municipalities of Riomaggiore and Manarola. It is situated in the northern region of Liguria at the heart of the natural paradise of the Cinque Terre, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997. The Via dell’Amore is considered one of the top hiking trails in and around Cinque Terre.

The Cinque Terre itself is a collection of five charming coastal villages. These colourful hamlets cling to cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea, linked by scenic hiking trails. Apart from the Via dell’Amore, Vernazza's quaintness, Monterosso al Mare's pastel hues and Corniglia's rustic beauty are a central part of the Cinque Terre experience.

The Via dell’Amore path has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. During the renovation of the Genoa and La Spezia railway line, workers needed to move a footpath between Riomaggiore and Manarola while constructing a tunnel between the villages. Locals believe that during this time, the path became a popular meeting spot for lovers from both towns.

Today, the Via dell’Amore is a well-known tourist destination in Cinque Terre. It offers a paved, flat walking path that’s more of a stroll than a challenging hike. Along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking cliffs and sea views. The trail features handrails and benches, making it safe and accessible for inexperienced hikers. It’s carved into the hard rock and winds along the rock face.

To access the Via dell’Amore, visitors have to pay an entrance fee. The best way to enjoy all the walking trails in Cinque Terre is to purchase a Cinque Terre Card, which includes unlimited train travel on the Levanto, Cinque Terre and La Spezia line that covers the entrance to all major walking trails in the area.

Neighbouring Towns To Check Out

Serving as the gateway to Cinque Terre, La Spezia boasts a strong maritime heritage. The Naval Technical Museum narrates Italy's naval history through captivating exhibits. The Amedeo Lia Museum houses a remarkable collection of art spanning centuries. For panoramic vistas, the San Giorgio Castle offers a stunning view of the city and its picturesque bay.

Porto Venere is a town located on the Ligurian coast of Italy in the province of La Spezia. It is made up of three villages called Fezzano, Le Grazie and Porto Venere, and the three islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto. This place is also a maritime gem and boasts pastel-coloured houses and a striking seafront. Its defining landmark, St Peter's Church, dramatically stands atop a rocky promontory, offering panoramic vistas of the Ligurian Sea. Don't miss stepping into Doria Castle, a medieval fortress, and the collapsed ruins of the Grotta dell'Arpaia from where the English poet Lord Byron started his swim across the Gulf of La Spezia to visit Mary Shelley in 1822.

Just across La Spezia is Carrara, a town famous for its marble quarries that offer a unique window into Italy's artistic legacy. Guided tours to the marble quarries allow visitors to witness firsthand the sheer scale of these extraction sites. Even renowned sculptor Michelangelo used Carrara's marbles in his creations. While you're here, consider checking out the Palazzo Ducale di Lucca, the Carrara Cathedral, and the National Archaeological Museum and Archaeological Zone of Luni.

Finally, Sarzana, nestled in the Ligurian heartland, offers a glimpse into Italy's medieval past. The Sarzanello Fortress, situated atop a hill, evokes tales of a bygone era. The Piazza Matteotti is surrounded by historical architecture and provides a vibrant hub for exploration. Renowned for its antique market, Sarzana is also a treasure trove for collectors.

Getting There

The closest airports to Cinque Terre are Pisa, Genoa and Milano Malpensa. All three airports have train connections to Cinque Terre that take around one to four hours depending on which site you choose.