Corniglia
|
Latest page update: 23 February 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The smallest of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre is Corniglia. Not only is it the smallest, but it's also quite unique among the five as it's not directly on the sea, rather above it.
The village centre has a few shops and a lively piazza with various outdoor dining options. Corniglia is a particular favourite with hikers with trails heading in every direction and there's also a train station on the same Levanto-La Spezia line as the other villages. |
|
Related links
Corniglia: the Cinque Terre's quietest village
Corniglia is certainly the quietest of the five Cinque Terre; it has a population of around 200 and even during the height of the tourist season, it has a relaxed, tranquil air.
Whereas the other four villages have a centrally-located train station, Corniglia's is just out of town and requires a walk up some steep steps to reach the main village. The walk can be avoided by taking the bus that's usually timed to coincide with the arrival of trains but the buses are very small and don't always have enough seats for all of the passengers on a busy day.
Whereas the other four villages have a centrally-located train station, Corniglia's is just out of town and requires a walk up some steep steps to reach the main village. The walk can be avoided by taking the bus that's usually timed to coincide with the arrival of trains but the buses are very small and don't always have enough seats for all of the passengers on a busy day.
Sightseeing Corniglia
Nevertheless, Corniglia remains an integral part of the area, as much for its diversity from the other villages, as for its own unique character. There are two main areas of the village; the buses stop at Via Stazione above which is the Chiesa di San Pietro with its attractive square in front of it. Across from Via Stazione on the other side of the road is the busier part of the village which culminates at Largo Taragio. The tiny square is hemmed in on all sides by taller buildings including another church. During the summer, this is one of the most vibrant areas of the village where restaurants and their umbrellas provide shade along with the trees.
The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) is the most popular hiking route that connects all five of the Cinque Terre and Corniglia is an important part of that. Depending on which direction you're heading (north-west or south-east), it's often seen as a convenient spot for lunch as it's roughly half-way along the trail. Even if you don't wish to walk the whole trail, it's worth taking a walk to the west of the village as the scenery here is quite exceptional; an intricate web of vineyards form a natural amphitheatre down to the deep blue stage of the sea.
The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) is the most popular hiking route that connects all five of the Cinque Terre and Corniglia is an important part of that. Depending on which direction you're heading (north-west or south-east), it's often seen as a convenient spot for lunch as it's roughly half-way along the trail. Even if you don't wish to walk the whole trail, it's worth taking a walk to the west of the village as the scenery here is quite exceptional; an intricate web of vineyards form a natural amphitheatre down to the deep blue stage of the sea.
Corniglia - frazione di Vernazza
|
Comune: Vernazza
Province: La Spezia Region: Liguria Highlights: hiking trails Close by: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Portovenere, Cinque Terre and the Islands (Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto)
Year: 1997
Portovenere, Cinque Terre and the Islands (Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto)
Year: 1997
My recommended accommodation options for Corniglia:
- Locanda Il Carugio Located in the heart of Corniglia, this boutique hotel offers spacious and stylish double rooms and suites with modern amenities, including air conditioning, satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi. Guests appreciate the stunning sea views from the rooftop terrace, the delicious breakfast, and the friendly hosts. The hotel's quiet location makes it a relaxing place to stay. €€ (mid-range)
- AMARE IL MARE Affittacamere e Appartamenti Situated in the centre of Corniglia, this guesthouse provides deluxe double rooms with balconies offering sea views, as well as a suite with a terrace. All rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, air conditioning, satellite TV, and minibars. Guests enjoy the welcoming hosts and the proximity to local restaurants and hiking paths. €€ (mid-range)
- La Posada Located centrally in Corniglia, this property offers comfortable and spacious double rooms and small apartments. Each accommodation includes air conditioning, satellite TV, and balconies with spectacular views of the village and the sea. Guests value the convenient access to restaurants and bars, as well as the attentive host. €€ (mid-range)
- Affittacamere Il Timone This guesthouse offers rooms with clean and comfortable furnishings, featuring air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Guests appreciate the amazing views, the helpful instructions from the host, and the central location within Corniglia, making it easy to explore the village. €€ (mid-range)
- Belvedere Affittacamere Providing air-conditioned accommodations, this guesthouse features rooms with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and balconies offering spectacular sea views. Guests enjoy the proximity to cafés and restaurants, the peaceful setting, and the nicely renovated interiors. €€ (mid-range)
