Corniglia

The hidden fifth village, perched high above the Ligurian Sea

Corniglia perches 100 metres above the Mediterranean. This is Cinque Terre at its highest and smallest. No harbour here – just dramatic cliffs, ancient stone and terraced vineyards tumbling down to the sea.

To reach it, climb 382 steps carved into the rock face. The Lardarina staircase zigzags upward, each turn revealing wider views. Your reward? A village that feels genuinely removed from the coastal bustle below. 

The 14th-century Chiesa di San Pietro anchors Corniglia’s highest point. Its Gothic-Ligurian façade features a striking marble rose window. Delicate tracery against weathered stone. Step inside to find more detailed beauty. Barrel-vaulted ceilings and quiet candlelight. This intimate church has watched over fishing families for 7 centuries. 

Centuries-old dry-stone walls support steep vineyard terraces surrounding Corniglia. These produce Sciacchetrà, Cinque Terre’s prized sweet wine. The terraces pattern the hillside – human determination made visible in stone and vine.

Wander the Via Solferino to find shops and trattorias. Pastel houses lean close, their shutters faded by salt air. Or follow the small Via Fieschi out to the Sentiero Azzuro.