Last update: March 2024.

The Azure Trail: Vernazza - Monterosso

The Trail, described here on this page, is highlighted on the map. In case you are interested in the other route, just click on it to read more information, or visit the page “Hiking trails in the Cinque Terre”, where you can find the information on the main routes.

The current status of the trail (March 2024): open.

Some main information about the trail

Time for walking: 1 hour 20 minutes.
Distance: 3,3 km (2 miles).
The maximum height: 175 metres (575 ft.).
Difficulty level: simple.

Recommended direction: almost doesn't matter. If you start your way from Vernazza, climbing up will be easier, but the difference is slight.
The cost: Cinque Terre card is needed to enter The Azure Trail.

The Trail description

This is one of the most popular stretches of the Azure Trail. The route, which connects Vernazza with Monterosso, is the most intriguing and tiresome, but the panoramic views are incredible!

Not far from Vernazza, there are two beautiful areas, where tourists can take photos of the village from height of the bird's flight. The first one is only a 5-minute walk, the second - about 15 minutes (the height is 150 metres (492.1 ft.).

View from the Blue Trail, Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy
View from the Blue Trail, Vernazza
View from the Blue Trail, Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy
View from the Blue Trail, Vernazza

The trail from Monterosso side abruptly gains height, so you will need to go up 500 steps, paved on the ancient path. On your way from Vernazza you will have a rise, though not steep one.

The climb from Monterosso al Mare, Blue Trail, Cinque Terre, Italy
The climb from Monterosso al Mare
The climb from Monterosso al Mare, Blue Trail, Cinque Terre, Italy
The climb from Monterosso al Mare

Apart from the fact, that the trail has a huge variety of slopes and rises, it is famous for its diversity of landscapes and greenery. You will have an unforgettable stroll near evergreen oaks, heathers, broom bushes and juniper. This stretch of the Azure Trail has a cattery. It is forbidden to feed the animals, using your own food.

Cat refuge, Blue Trail, Cinque Terre, Italy
Cat refuge
Vernazza - Monterosso al Mare path, Blue Trail, Cinque Terre, Italy
Vernazza - Monterosso al Mare path

Reaching Monterosso, you will find yourself near the beach of the historical centre, the new part of the village is located behind the hill, where Capuchin Monastery is.

View from the Blue Trail on the village and the Capuchin Monastery in the winter, Monterosso, Cinque Terre, Italy
View from the Blue Trail on the village and the Capuchin Monastery in the winter, Monterosso
Historical Centre, Monterosso, Cinque Terre, Italy
Historical Centre, Monterosso

Text printed from website www.cinqueterrehike.com

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