Monterosso

Cinque Terre’s only sandy beach and most relaxed village

Monterosso sprawls where its neighbours cling. Here, cliffs finally relent to reveal Cinque Terre’s longest stretch of sand. Proper beach umbrellas. Sunbathers basking. Space to breathe.

This is the largest of the 5 villages – the one that feels less vertical, more generous. If you’ve been climbing steps for days, Monterosso offers flat ground and easier living.

The beach curves along the bay in 2 sections. Fine sand meets calm water. Colourful umbrellas line the shore during summer. Sun, gelato vendors and views over the surrounding hills tumbling into the sea. 

A tunnel carved through rock connects the beach to Monterosso’s Old Town. Medieval streets narrow suddenly. Pastel houses press close. The character shifts from resort ease to ancient fishing village in a dozen steps.

The 14th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista anchors the old quarter. Its striped Gothic façade with alternating bands of white marble and dark serpentine catches your eye immediately. Ligurian architecture at its most dramatic. Inside, the stripes live on. And the marble floor continues the black and white effect.

Wander the Old Town’s tight lanes where washing hangs overhead and cats sleep in doorways. Sit on a shaded terrace to enjoy a bite to eat or a fine wine from the region. Later, climb to the 16th-century Capuchin monastery perched above. The views sweep across the endless blue horizon.