Itineraries

Our tips – The best hiking & cycling trails around Levanto – Cinque Terre

One of the things we love most here at Collina San Michele is sharing tips and recommendations with our guests to help them experience the best of Eastern Liguria and the Cinque Terre National Park—whether on foot or by bike. Every day, we’re here to provide useful insights, maps, and suggestions, from the most scenic trails to the best spots for swimming, diving, and relaxing in the sea! Ready for some inspiration? Let’s go!

Trekking & Cycling in Levanto and Surroundings

Levanto is a hiker’s and cyclist’s paradise. As the gateway to the Cinque Terre, it offers numerous trails surrounded by stunning nature and the iconic Ligurian landscape. Here are some must-try routes:

Levanto – Punta Mesco Trail – A breathtaking panoramic hike starting from the Levanto waterfront and leading to Punta Mesco, the promontory that separates Levanto’s bay from Monterosso. This is one of the most scenic peaks in the area, perfect for a pause to enjoy the view or a longer adventure. If you wish, you can continue along the trail all the way to Monterosso, the first of the Cinque Terre villages.

Food & Wine Trail in the Ligurian Countryside – Looking for an experience that combines trekking and authentic flavors? This 12 km trail winds through the charming villages of Lavaggiorosso, Casella, Groppo, and Montale. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and local cuisine, this route takes you through unspoiled landscapes and traditional Ligurian countryside.

Levanto – Bonassola Trail – This hike immediately rewards you with incredible views of Levanto. As you reach the highest point of the mountain, you’ll descend towards Scernio, where you’ll get your first glimpses of Bonassola—a great place for a beach stop and a refreshing swim. The return to Levanto can be along the stunning cycle path, built on the old railway track (see below—an absolute must!).

credits finoincima.altervista.org

Ciclopedonale Levanto Framura_Cinque Terre experience

Exploring Levanto by bike is an unforgettable experience for cycling enthusiasts. Here, you’ll find one of Liguria’s most stunning cycle paths: the MareMonti Cycle Path, connecting Levanto, Bonassola, and Framura with spectacular sea views This scenic route follows the historic single-track railway that once connected Genoa and Pisa, alternating between tunnels and breathtaking coastal panoramas. Along the way, you can explore the charming villages of Bonassola and Framura. One must-see stop is the Madonnina della Punta, a picturesque pink church perched above the sea in Bonassola.

More Cycling Routes Around Levanto

Vandarecca Tunnel – Framura – A scenic loop itinerary starting and ending in Levanto.

Panorama Track – Levanto Waterfront – A circular route with stunning coastal views.

Alta Via delle Cinque Terre (Levanto – Portovenere) – A challenging trail, perfect for experienced mountain bikers. This route offers breathtaking views over the villages and the sea, making every effort totally worth it!