Explore two of the charming villages in the Cinque Terre, travelling via private motor launch.

Named for five remote villages on a wild stretch of Ligurian coastline, the Cinque Terre (literally Five Lands) are among the most popular destinations along the Italian Riviera. Thanks in equal parts to geography and the good fortune to be deemed both a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the region remains untouched by large-scale development. The five villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore) were for centuries only accessible by boat or via a precipitous footpath; a train connects them today. Today’s excursion includes visits to Vernazza and Monterosso.

Board your private motor launch and cruise along the rugged coastline about 50 minutes to Vernazza. Begin your visit at Piazza Marconi, following your guide on a 30-minute guided walk around the charming medieval village. Sights include the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia, just off the small square. Free time is allowed as well before continuing your outing.

Cruise another ten minutes or so to Monterosso al Mare, which, as its name suggests, is the sandiest and most resort like of the five villages. Its medieval centre has remained perfectly preserved with its tower-houses and carrugi (narrow arcades). As protection from frequent sea battles, defence structures were built around the town: the Castle overlooking the sea and the Aurora Tower, which is the only one remaining of the thirteen towers that surrounded the village in the 17th century. Take a walk with your guide before enjoying a bit of free time here in the largest of the Cinque Terre towns.

Relax aboard the launch and enjoy a tasty slice of focaccia and a glass of wine during the one-hour voyage back to Portovenere.

NOTE: Modest clothing is required to visit the churches—no shorts or bare shoulders, please.

PRICE:

$ 260 25-29 participants

$ 320 20-24 participants

$ 420 15-19 participants

W2: Moderate activity. Requires intermittent effort throughout, including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and/or on steps.