Monterosso is one of the five beautiful villages along the Italian Riviera’s Cinque Terre. If you’ve never visited here before, prepare to be entranced. If you have, then you’ve probably already dreamed of living here someday. This week, why not consider making those dreams a reality?
Monterosso is actually officially a commune, and since it is under protection as a national park (along with the whole of Cinque Terre) and as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it isn’t exactly an easy place for expats to move to en masse. Even so, its well-preserved beauty is also part of what makes the town so alluring. The best way to move here is actually to find real estate in the surrounding La Spezia province, or perhaps even in Pisa (home of the leaning tower!).
Getting in and out of Monterosso is exceptionally easy due to its convenient train station, and it’s a short ride from anywhere in the surrounding region.
One of the perks of Monterosso compared to the rest of the Cinque Terre villages is its beach, which makes it a popular hub for sun bathers visiting the area since it is the only exclusive beach within the Cinque Terre. Of course, during tourist season in the summer, it can get overcrowded here. But for much of the year its historical atmosphere, environment and culture is relatively well preserved.
If you’re one to take daily walks, then you simply can’t do better than the Cinque Terre. There is a hiking trail which famously connects Monterosso with the rest of the villages; one of the most breathtaking hikes in the world. Along the way, pick out some fresh lemonade or wine from farmers who call this hillside their home.
The area is famous for its many lemon trees that can be seen throughout Monterosso. It is also renowned for its white wines, grapes, and olives.
Historically, many of the villages on the Mediterranean were walled to protect against attacks from the sea– which today has added an architectural beauty to Monterosso which is incredible. This area of the coast was often attacked by Muslim pirates and Vikings. Viking influence can still be seen in the occasional fair-skinned, red-headed children of the native villagers in the region. Of course, nowadays the only invaders are the waves of tourists.
Italy has its fair share of beautiful tourist destinations, and the Cinque Terre might top them all. It will be impossible for you to visit here without wanting to stay
Tourist Board Info
If you are visiting Monterosso, in Cinque Terre, you’ll find the tourist office at the Monterosso train station on 38 Via Fegina. The phone number is 0187-817-506. Hours are pretty erratic, and the office is only open from April to November. The office posts a lot of information outside when it is closed. Check with your hotel if you need additional visitor information.
Monterosso al Mare: Museums & Attractions
The Average Holiday
A day in Monterosso includes the preferred method ofgetting around, which is to wander the gardens and produce stands. After visitors sample food and wine until contentment, he or she typically basks in the sun on the sandy beach. The beach is 6-15 US Dollars per day. While the lower price range includes one chair, the higher price includes an umbrella and two chairs.
Explore the Town
Several days of absolute spoilage sometimes incites a desire to actually explore the town. Monterosso is a combination of the old and the new. The Aurora Towerstraddles the Old Town and New Town, and it affords a pleasant view of the entire city. As visitors walk throughout Monterosso, it becomes increasingly apparent that the city is quite hilly.
The Convent of Cappuccini is also located on a hill. The 17th century, Medieval structure houses the Church of Saint Francis. The church contains a respectable collection of art. The Crucifixion by Anthony Van Dych and marble triptych by Domenico Gare are perhaps the most well known pieces. Open hours are 9AM until Noon and 4 until 7PM weekdays.
Sentiero Azzuro (Footpaths)
Although Monterosso is an attraction of its own, the Sentiero Azzurro footpaths serve as a captivating tour for many Cinque Terre vacationers. The footpath connects all five villages over a 12 km trail. Panoramic views of the ocean, natural sanctuaries, and an encounter with the shrine of Mary Magadelene on the way to Monterosso are only a few of the scenic highlights.
The trail from Riomaggiora to Manarola is paved and the easiest walk. Time to completion is about 20 minutes. The most arduous trail is from Vernazza to Monterosso. The staircases and cliffs require at least 1.5 hours of time. There are signs in every city that lead travelers between the exchange points. The trail begins at the Riomaggiora railway station.
Coordinate Trenitalia service at preferred exchange points. Travelers often prefer to only complete a portion of the trail and take the train to the remaining villages.
Monterosso al Mare Weather and When to Go
The weather in Monterosso adds to its Mediterranean, coastal flair. The climate, like most of the Italian Riviera, is mild even during the Winter. The Alps and Apennines shield the area from cold winds and recycles the sea breezes year round.
Temperature ranges are low. There is usually a small change between day time and evening. However, prepare at least a couple outfits for the unexpected. Microclimates can occasionally cause warm or cold spells any time of the year.
July and August are the hottest months. Monterosso nightlife is more intense and gratifying during the late Summer. Carry plenty of bottled water and wear sunblock under sun exposure, especially while participating in outdoor sports and beach activities.
Visitors for whom a hike along the footpaths is their primary goal should try to avoid July and August. The very dry heat is ultimately tiresome and can be uncomfortable for people not accustomed to the climate. Consider the Spring or Autumn for hiking excursions. Brief rain showers are common in both seasons.
Winter snow can dust Monterosso even at low altitudes. Skiers and powder enthusiasts stay at the Riviera resorts and ascend the Alps at ski time. On the ground level, travelers never have to bundle up. A combination of a light sweater, sunglasses and coat usually provides comfort on colder winter days.
Monterosso al Mare: Nightlife
Outdoor enthusiasts may choose to conquer the treacherous hiking trail to Monterosso. Other travelers may may take the train or an airplane into Monterosso. No matter how travelers arrive, they are sometimes greeted by fire light and dances on the beach.
A riviera is simply not a riviera without a scene after nightfall. Dancing on the beach is one of the many ways Monterosso Ligurians fulfill this revelrous reputation. Most Saturday nights during the Summer include discos on the beach.
Old Town is the main site for late-night fun in Monterosso. Bars and pubs serve appetizers such as anchovies, olives, cheese and focaccia breads. Tap beers, liquors and local wines are readily available throughout the evening. Drinks are generally served from 9AM to 1AM.
Although small, local bars and venues offer more adventure, sometimes a relaxing evening can be found at the hotel bar. Most hotel bars stay keep late hours and maintain open-air seating.
Venture to the other Riviera towns and spice up a night or two with a change of scenery. The other towns can be accessed by ferry and regional railway service. Take note of the most up-to-date timetables on the web site and avoid missing the last departure.
Monterosso al Mare: Family Travel
Monterosso can fulfill the dreams of the Italian Rivierafor families of any size. From an only child with 2 parents to a multigenerational vacation, there is a delightful selection of beaches and activities for everyone.
After arriving from the airport and settling into the ideal resort, consider one of several museum and attractions . Explore the Old Town and New Town respectively from the visitor center that is housed in Aurora Tower. On an especially calm day, hike the footpaths that stretch across the entire Cinque Terre terrain. The 12 km trail provides panoramic views of the bay, olive groves, and countryside.
Although there is plenty of family fun awaiting within Monterosso, a day trip can be an opportunity to share some quiet time with the children. Acquire new painting and drawing techniques in a weekend art program, go backpacking on a horse, or tourPortovenere , an enchanting port city.
Don’t forget to at least purchase a few local goods at the open markets throughout the Riviera. While adults may enjoy a handpicked bottle of wine, the younger family members may prefer souvenirs and other keepsakes. The families that like to spoil themselves in designer goods should go to Portofino where Dolce and Gabanna are merely precursors to the avenues of fashion houses.
Monterosso al Mare: Arriving & Departing
The Italian Riviera and Monterosso’s convenient location between France and Italy also presents the possibility of coordinating travel plans with nearby airports. TheMarseilles Provence Airport in France is only 5 hours from Monterosso. The Milan Airport in Italy is less than 3 hours away.
The Trentitalia is the national transit system Italy, which operates within the Eurorailnetwork. Whether a visitor books a train trip entirely or only selected legs from one of the airports, the train is a convenient method for airport transfers. Book through Trentitalia for travel within Italy. Book through Eurorail for access to rest of Western Europe.
Travelers from the Genova Airport should board the Rapid Bus . It includes stops at Trentitalia. Alternatively, a taxi can provide a relatively quick trip after a long flight. Certain luxury and chain hotels may offer free or discounted shuttle transfers of their own.
Monterosso al Mare: Getting Around
Undeniably, the only effective way to explore Monterosso and the rest of Cinque Terre is walkingthe many small and quiet trails through the beautiful vineyards and lemon trees – this is what Monterosso is mostly about. Take the that are the furthest north for the best views.You can also take the train from Monterosso to the other four towns. The train goes through Monterosso every couple of hours. Day-tickets are available – with one ticket you can travel all five towns in one day with a one-time purchase.
Monterosso al Mare: Day Trips
Although hiking the extensive Cinque Terre footpathsand exploring the Old town can suffice as a day trip, an occassional change of plans can be intriguing. The nearby, small fishing villages and vineyards offer relaxing activities of their own.
Art Day Trip
Laboratorio d’Arte Lunigiana is an opportunity to acquire a new skill or improve upon preexisting ones. It is a weekend art academy which teaches a large selection of techniques and media.
The 12 hour course takes place on weekends in a small village caleld Pentromoli, approximately 3 km out of town. Bunk at the Elda Romiti farmhouse where the course fee is inclusive of board.
Equestrian Backpacking
Alternatively, join all levels of equestrian fans at Maneggio Trekker Land in Beverino. The main stable contains seven, healthy and groomed horses. Rent a horse the whole day or go horeback riding for the first-time alongside equine experts.
Visitors who happened to smuggle their dog on board the ferry or plane will be pleased to know that their dog can hang out in the stables. Contact Maneggio Trekker Land in advance to arrange an overnight stay at one of the local, countryside inns.
Portovenere Tour
Travelers who are willing to make a farther excursion may visit Portovenere, a promontory that juts into the gulf of La Spezia. The Cave of Byron and a 1,000 year old castle built during the battles with Pisa are main attractions.
Take the ferry directly to Portovenere or hire a car. Follow the signs to Portovenere from the Spezia tollgate
Monterosso al Mare: Culture
The Italian Riviera is a conglomeration of small coastline cities on the Ligurian sea bordering France. Monterosso is not as well known to most tourists due to its westernmost location.
The village sits in a valley between rolling olive groves and vineyards. Locals consider it to be a one of the modern cities on the Italian Riviera. However, it is subdivided into two parts – the old and new city.
Unlike the rocky coastlines of neighboring villages, Monterosso has the longest sandy beach on the Italian Riviera. Early humans were as much interested in the Riviera as today’s resort guests.
Archaeologists have found numerous fragments of decorated shells and jewelry in the area. The walls that fortify most of the Cinque Terre cities likely protected them from invasions. Muslim and Viking explorers frequently attempted to rampage the cities.
Remnants of the Roman Empire’s etruscan road and the aforementioned dry walls place a historical stamp upon Monterosso. Villagers still celebrate the Corpus Christi festival and live a maritime lifestyle.
Meanwhile, its contemporary restaurants, nightclubs, and resorts create a lavish environment. Party all week long, go hiking along cliffside pathways through antiquity, or converse with the locals. The versatility of Monterosso permits travelers the opportunity to decide upon an ideal getaway.
Monterosso al Mare: Typical products
Monterosso al mare is popular in the world not only for cristalline sea and natural setting but also for typical products.
The product of excellence is the famous Sciacchetrà, meditation wine.We don’t have to forget the white wine “Cinque Terre” ideal with fish, salted anchovies of Monterosso, lemons of Monterosso,Pesto ligure, olive oil.
The salted anchovies of Monterosso or anchovies with lemon are a true delight for lovers of good cuisine.
The Pesto is the queen of all the sauces, it is the link between Cinque terre cuisine with ligurian tradition.The local ingredients are:basil,garlic,pine-seeds,parmisan cheese,salt and extravirgin olive oil.
There is also a typical liqueur that each family in the area use to make: Il Limoncino.
You can try it after a good dinner.
