Italy
Hiking the Cinque Terre
Program No. 21050RJ
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Hiking the Cinque Terre
Hiking the Cinque Terre
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Participant Reviews
Based on 113 Reviews
SHOWING
absolute the best Boris rocks
— Review left February 23, 2026
The Cinque Terre is special! Our Road Scholar guides were prepared, personable and fantastic, adding historical and cultural insight, and adjusting itinerary on-the-fly when necessary. A wonderful experience!
— Review left November 9, 2025
I can summarize the program by saying the it was a lot of fun as well as just the right amount of challenging. Excellent leaders and a truly lovely home base from which we did the daily activities. It exceeded my expectations.
— Review left November 8, 2025
If you like to learn and experience a new culture with all the work done for you than Road Scholar is for you! Daily engagement, small groups, knowledgeable leaders, and great participants are all there for you. No better way to see the world and meet new people in a safe and secure experience.
— Review left October 29, 2025
Any program with Leonardo Mastropasqua it’s worth the time.
— Review left October 28, 2025
Cinque Terre is an extraordinarily beautiful destination, and hiking its mountains is one of the best ways to experience the unique character of the area. Our group and study leaders, Leonardo and Boris, were charming, funny, and incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights about the region as we trekked through some demanding terrain.
If you’re an active person who enjoys activities like biking, golf, or pickleball, it’s a good idea to brush up on your hiking skills before joining this program. The trails follow the same mule and working paths that farmers have used for centuries to terrace their vineyards and gardens. The terrain is varied—stairs, stones, rocks, mud, dirt—and constantly changing, so sure-footedness and good balance are essential.
The elevation gains can be challenging, and those unaccustomed to hiking uphill may find parts of the journey strenuous. However, the effort is well worth it. Cinque Terre is breathtaking, and there’s truly no better way to experience its beauty than by walking high above the cliffs overlooking the sea.
— Review left October 27, 2025
Our hiking trip to Cinque Terre was absolutely unforgettable. The program was perfectly organized — a great balance of adventure and local culture. Every trail offered breathtaking views of the sea and colorful cliffside villages that looked straight out of a painting. The food was another highlight: fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and local wines that made every meal something to remember. What truly made the experience stand out were our guides Boris and Leonardo - knowledgeable, passionate, and genuinely fun to be around. They made us feel like locals, not tourists. An outstanding trip from start to finish — I can’t recommend it highly enough.
— Review left October 27, 2025
Stunning views, abundant history, like-minded people and knowledgeable, capable trip leaders and hiking guides. The Cinque Terre was an experience of a lifetime for me!
— Review left October 21, 2025
Hiking the Cinque Terre was everything I could have wanted it to be. The hikes were amazing and the views from the top made climbing all those stairs worthwhile. The food was excellent and staying in La Grazie was fun. I would recommend paying a little extra for the rooms with a view of the water. What really made the trip exceptional was our excellent trip leader Leonardo and hiking guide Boris and all of the lovely and interesting people who were part of the program the same week I was there.
— Review left October 20, 2025
Fabulous Cinque de Terre hiking trip with Alessandro and Boris!
— Review left October 18, 2025
Magnifico! From our wonderful leaders Leonardo and Boris, our driver Marco, to the scenery, food, history, hotel and base location, and beyond, this was a terrific trip!
— Review left October 2, 2025
Leonardo Mastropasqua is an excellent group leader, and Boris is a great hike/walk leader. This trip is not for the faint of heart or weak of knees, but if you're physically fit and mentally flexible, you'll get a good workout and a good education about Cinque Terre and some nearby areas.
— Review left September 29, 2025
Hiking the Cinque Terre is, absolutely, a memorable experience! Matteo and Boris are the best guides! Hikes were splendid! Such gorgeous weather, and of course, cannot forget the stairs!
— Review left September 26, 2025
This was my first (of many, I hope) Road Scholar trip as well as my first trip to Italy. I am in love with Italy and Road Scholars! I couldn't have asked for a better trip. From start to finish I only had to show up and enjoy. The hiking and views were spectacular, the food delicious, the company enjoyable and our guides Arianna and Boris were wonderful. I would travel anywhere with them. I feel like Road Scholars and I are going to be good friends!
— Review left September 24, 2025
Cinque Terre is a good hike to recommend if you like elevation and lots of stairs. The hike leaders are great. Isabel R.
— Review left September 22, 2025
Hiking the Cinque Terra program was invigorating and life affirming. Educational, spirited activity and qualified experts leading the way made this adventure worth every penny!
— Review left September 19, 2025
This was a fun trip! The trip leader and the hiking guide both did an excellent job. If you like challenging hiking in a beautiful area, this is the trip for you!
— Review left September 13, 2025
Lots of fun people on the trip with great life experiences. Guides were great.
— Review left September 10, 2025
The guides thought of everything! Supportive to the utmost!
— Review left July 11, 2025
Hiking the Cinque Terre was a very well-thought out, well-planned program. Hiking was challenging, but not overwhelming, and brought me much joy and a sense of fulfillment. The scenery did not disappoint. And the trip to the vineyard was a treat. Food and accommodations excellent.
— Review left July 10, 2025
This was my first trip with Road Scholar, but most certainly not my last! Alessandro and Boris our guides, the other educational speakers and our drivers were top notch! A mere eight days of hiking the Cinque Terre, but a lifetime of memories!
— Review left July 2, 2025
I am hooked! Hiking Cinque Terra was an amazing experience with Road Scholar. All I had to do was hike. They took care of everything else.
— Review left July 2, 2025
It was a great trip! Their advice to train and be prepared should be taken seriously. We’ve done other “Outdoor Spirited” trips and this one was definitely more strenuous, given the terrain and the many, many stairs. The food won’t disappoint! Beautiful!!
— Review left July 1, 2025
Hiking the Cinque Terre was a wonderful experience. The program was packed full of fun and educational experiences every single day. The guides were fun and knowledgeable about the area, and the organization and transportation was perfect. The food was FANTATIC!!
— Review left June 23, 2025
This trip was such a wonderful experience. The program leader, Kristian, and Boris, the hiking expert, are a great team.
The scenery is beautiful. The food and the hotel were excellent.
The hiking was challenging for me as I am not experienced in mountain hiking. Believe Road Scholar when the program says it is for experienced hikers!
The leaders provided other options for those of us who chose to not participate on certain days. There were cafes with iced coffee. Need I say more?
The educational component is very well done, and the leaders included history of the areas we were hiking through. We learned about marble, chestnut forests, pilgrimages, and visited a winery. Extra lectures and tours are included to round out the program.
The locale is fascinating, too, seeing the towns built onto the side of the mountains and how little flat areas there are.
I'd return to this most beautiful part of Italy again in a heartbeat.
— Review left June 23, 2025
This is a fabulous program! Beautiful scenery, great food, good accomodations. The Group Leader and Program Instructor are very knowledgeable, kind and funny. They are not kidding about being in shape to do all the hiking. This program is Molto Bene!
— Review left June 18, 2025
Definitely a trip for fit and experienced hikers! Though I thoroughly enjoyed the program and they made accommodations for my lack of hiking experience and fitness level, I would recommend that folks take the warnings that this is a "spirited" adventure for seasoned hikers seriously. Either get it shape before you go or choose a different offering (there are so many to choose from!).
— Review left June 17, 2025
This is a great hiking adventure. Our guide, Matteo, was wonderful and the Cinque Terre is SO beautiful.
Be advised that the hiking is somewhat challenging.
— Review left June 8, 2025
The sights of Cinque Terre are spectacular! This trip has progressively challenging hikes and requires exercise activity preparation to handle inclines and narrow, rocky trails. Hiking boots, poles and day packs with easily accessible water bottles are highly recommended. The meals were fabulous and provided a well-rounded cultural experience. The tour guides were passionate about sharing their experience and making the trip immersive and memorable. We thoroughly enjoyed the trip!
— Review left June 2, 2025
I travel alot and am always surprised about the quality and fun i have on these trips.well worth the money spent.Great for single travelers that i met.Dream trip to Cinqterre
— Review left June 2, 2025
I just completed my fourth Road Scholar trip, and all my met and exceeded my expectations. Thank you.
— Review left May 13, 2025
Truly an experience of a lifetime. Highly informative with history and the hiking was perfection. I will be using Road Scholar for years to come.
Thank you, Road Scholar, for making my vacation one I will never forget.
— Review left May 13, 2025
This program offers an excellent variety of beautiful hikes led by a professional guide, who provides great insight into the history and culture of the region. The five Cinque Terre seaside villages are stunning to see from the hiking trails.
— Review left April 23, 2025
This is a wonderful program for those that enjoy hiking in a beautiful location. It is active but not overly strenuous. The tour guides were great, very knowledgeable and personable. We couldn't have enjoyed it more.
— Review left April 16, 2025
The Hiking the Cinque Terre trip far surpassed my expectations. The hikes were challenging but there was always good food, good wine, and good company as a reward. This was the best trip I have ever taken.
— Review left April 14, 2025
Totally enjoyable experience. Accessed the hiking by boat, train, vans,bus.Several wonderful dining experiences while exploring the region.Group leader Mattia and Guide Boris kept us on track and were accommodating to our abilities and preferences. The group enjoyed their banter - a good diversion when you're hiking in the rain.Be prepared-plenty of steps-on well traveled paths. Bring clothing for variable weather and an appetite .
— Review left November 13, 2024
the Cinque Terre hiking trip is a physucally challenging, scenic, invigorating and a unique expeeence.
— Review left October 23, 2024
Program for the serious hiker or a couple with one serious hiker and a capable companion with moderate hiking interests. Beautiful venues yo explore together with options for thevless inspired hiking partner. Definitely spirited hiking so if interested, should focus on athletic preparation.
— Review left October 14, 2024
Everything about this program was wonderful and met my expectations!
— Review left October 8, 2024
We could not have been happier with our Cinque Terre hiking experience. The guides were the best we have ever had, the scenery and the trails were beyond beautiful, and we very much enjoyed getting to know the other participants and our guides over our unforgettable week in Italy. This will go down as one of our most favorite trips, and we will look back on our experience (and our photos!) with wonder.
— Review left September 30, 2024
This was our first Road Scholar trip and our first trip abroad. It was fantastic and we thoroughly enjoyed the trip. The guides were wonderful, the food was great, we gained so much knowledge of the history of Cinque Terre and the scenery was gorgeous. We definitely plan to travel with Road Scholar again!
— Review left September 23, 2024
I highly recommend the Cinque Terre Hiking program. The scenery is spectacular, and the hikes are challenging, yet doable. Our tour leader, Arianna, and our hiking guide, Boris, were both exceptional!
— Review left September 18, 2024
This was a glorious look at a beautiful part of the world. The guides were excellent and the trails varied from average to challenging.
— Review left September 12, 2024
I absolutely loved this trip! This was our first Road Scholar trip and my husband and I were both impressed with how thorough Road Scholar is in helping you prepare and plan for a trip.
The actual trip itself was amazing! I was a little worried that in a hiking trip, we might not see as much but I did not feel that way at all. Each daily hike took us to one more beautiful spot after another and focused on a different aspect of the Cinque Terre or surrounding region. Nothing was redundant about these hikes and all went smoothly. Our hiking guide, Boris, was excellent. He gave useful hiking tips for these challenging hikes and great historical and relevant information for each incredibly beautiful hike. He was very approachable as a guide and very patient and likable. I cannot say enough about how beautiful these hikes were. Just gorgeous!
This trip was also successful due in large part to our group leader, Matteo. He was with us 24 hrs and made sure we all were prepared for the upcoming day. Any problem that might have come up, he was there for us and in a kind way. He set the tone for our group which made the atmosphere relaxed, comfortable and fun. We felt easy in knowing that things would go well as he was very organized and knew the area well. Everything was communicated to us readily. He, too, had great insights about the hikes and historical information as well. It was great that he was so well versed in many things about Italy. He was an excellent leader and helped make our trip very enjoyable. Matteo and Boris were great together on our hikes. They even sang for us!
My husband thought the restaurants and meals were terrific. The hike to the vineyard followed by the meal was the icing on the cake.
All in all, this was a stunningly beautiful trip with excellent guides in Matteo and Boris. Our hotel was a great home base in beautiful Le Grazie, a sweet, walkable city. We will miss Italy and just might have to come back! Ciao!
— Review left July 1, 2024
Absolutely incredible experience. Our guides, Matteo and the local hiking guide, Boris were both efficient, patient, resourceful, and both had a wonderful sense of humor. We even sang together! The trip itself had plenty of variety in the villages and cultural visits we did, the cuisine offered, and intensity of the hikes. When someone had a little difficulty finding their footing, one of them were on hand to help. The views were amazing! Highly recommend this trip.
— Review left June 26, 2024
Definitely the trip to take if you have a passion for hiking - spectacular area.
— Review left June 18, 2024
Both program leaders, Matteo and Boris made this program exceptionally interesting and joyful. Their leadership skills were outstanding.
— Review left June 11, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed the trip! Very active, yet nice to be able to opt out on part of the hikes.
Leonardo was a very nice, knowledgeable group leader, especially helpful when airline lost our luggage for a few days. His associates were very knowledgeable and fun.
— Review left June 7, 2024
Cinque Terra was beautiful and our guide Leonardo made the whole trip fabulous !
— Review left June 7, 2024
This was an outstanding experience and my first RS trip! I am so happy that I joined this program. It was definitely physically challenging. The hiking was incredible with amazing scenery. The itinerary was well thought out and had a lot of variety. The history and education were very interesting. Leonardo and Boris made this trip what it was! They work together as a team. Both of them were very organized and helpful. This was an incredible journey and experience all the way around.
— Review left May 23, 2024
This trip, while physically challenging, provides a deep dive into the terrain, history, and culture of the Cinque Terre region.
— Review left May 20, 2024
Everything was absolutely perfect about this trip! The hard hiking was offset by the wonderful views and there was always a good alternative if you needed a reprieve. I am not much for wine but my fellow travelers seemed to enjoy it especially at the winery we visited .
The food was fantastic at the hotel and restaurants and accompanied by stellar service. The tours and lectures were very interesting, too. I loved our hotel in a small town that had easy access to other destinations. Our wonderful tour leader was excellent at handling all the needs of 24 people, a minor miracle! Also, he and our frequent guide, Boris were adept at sparring with each other, very funny.
I was so happy that I got to go on this adventure!
— Review left May 9, 2024
If you have any doubts about joining the Road Scholar experience, set them aside as my experience at hiking the Cinque Terre was beyond my expectations . I’m hooked!!
— Review left April 22, 2024
Hiking the Cinque Terre was a challenging and rewarding trip. Besides hiking to beautiful ancient villages, the additional tours to a castle and winery were also absolutely enjoyable. The food provided on this program is authentic, delicious and abundant! Cozy small places and rather grand places were included. This program has everything you could ask for and more. Highly recommend!
— Review left April 22, 2024
If you like great hiking and good food Cinque Terre is a great program.
— Review left April 22, 2024
This was a wonderful program, but it does require a good fitness level, preferably with experience hiking on rocky, uneven terrain.
— Review left April 16, 2024
This was my first trip with Road Scholar and I enjoyed the trip. The guides were knowledgeable, organized and entertaining. Cinque Terre is beautiful and I enjoyed the stunning views. Some suggestions to make a great program better:
1. Let the group know what the included meals consist of beforehand so they don’t eat the same thing at lunch or dinner.
2. On the last day of the program, go to Sarzana or the vineyard. It was a very long and by the end, tiring day. We also had to be prepared to leave the hotel at 6:15 am the next morning. It was just too much for 1 day.
3. The vineyard was nice but the talk by the farmer was very drawn out. I would have enjoyed a cooking demonstration from the farmer’s wife.
4. Boris mentioned he had mapped out easy hikes for his parents to do on their own. It might be nice to provide info about a hike to do on one’s own if a person is opting out of one of the more challenging hikes. I would prefer to do that rather than going back to the hotel or shopping.
— Review left April 15, 2024
This was my first Road Scholar trip and it was a great one! Our tour guides were exceptional! The weather turned rainy so plans had to be changed several of the days; the guides didn't miss a beat coming up with a "Plan B" each day.
I enjoyed the food and the hotel. I would have liked to have a bit more time for shopping, but that is my only suggestion.
Thank you for a wonderful experience!
— Review left November 10, 2023
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Cinque Terre, Italy and have recommended the trip to friends. The trip was well organized, and the hiking was outstanding. The food surpassed our expectations. The others in the group were all fun and interesting people which added to the trip. Leonardo and Bruno were the best!
— Review left November 1, 2023
Wonderful trip and excellent group leader, Benni, and hiking guide, Boris! Great hiking and learning experience, and would recommend Road Scholar and trip to anyone who enjoys nature, history and spirited hiking!
Dennis and Theresa
— Review left October 30, 2023
You do not need perfect weather to make this a great trip. Our guides handled the rapidly changing conditions with great skill. They really know their area. Even though we had four days of rain, the substitute programs were terrific. Our group was game for alternate activities, and we had more time to explore the attractions of the villages and cities.
— Review left October 26, 2023
Prepare well for this exciting and gorgeous hiking trip. The days work up to harder hikes so you will know if you aren’t ready and you can opt out if that seems best, but you will want to enjoy all the beauty of this area that hiking up and down the hills of the Cinque Terre provides. You will also learn about the history and people of this area and even meet a few.
— Review left October 16, 2023
Read the pre-trip materials about preparing for the hiking and take them seriously. We live near mountains and hike regularly which helped us to be prepared. Trails are steep in the Cinque Terre with a lot of steps in many places. Regardless, the views are spectacular and well worth the up and downhill hikes.
— Review left October 12, 2023
Great program whether you are new to Road Scholar or an experienced hand.
— Review left October 7, 2023
This is an amazing, beautiful, informative trip. Highly recommended.
— Review left October 5, 2023
Excellent Program, great team leaders, Leonardo and Boris did a fantastic job!
— Review left October 3, 2023
Breathtaking views. Exceptional food and food venues. Accommodation is clean, convenient, and well appointed. Swimming pool was very nice after a day of hiking. Experienced leader, guide and driver who all are warm, hospitable, and fun to be around. Leonardo, Boris and Marco make a great team.
— Review left October 2, 2023
Leonardo and Boris did an outstanding job leading the week's hikes.
— Review left September 26, 2023
Read all materials and get and stay in shape! This was an eye-opening experience, culturally. Everyone in our group of 21 really bonded, lifted one another up, and laughed ... a LOT! Leonardo and Boris are incredible leaders - attentive, knowledgeable, and very, very, very
entertaining! An excellent team! hard to say good-bye to them!
— Review left September 26, 2023
This is our first out of country trip since 2019 and what a great start! The program is well balanced between hiking and sightseeing. The meals in general were excellent. The Cinque Terre trails could e crowded.
— Review left September 25, 2023
Great trip. Take what they say about difficulty of some hikes seriously. The hiking guide was spectacular. Half of the provide meals were great, but the other half were so-so. But again, great trip.
— Review left September 23, 2023
The Hiking the Cinque Terre program was beyond our expectations! Our guides Silvia and Boris were excellent and ensured we felt safe, engaged, and had the best possible experience. The Cinque Terre is stunning - but the program and the people made it even more so! Challenging but not over the top! Highly recommend this trip.
— Review left September 14, 2023
I really apologize. I should have already given my review of this extraordinary trip. Everything was perfect starting from Matteo and Boris as our guides. The whole program was perfect, accommodation was great and all our hikes and visit were perfectly organized. Additionally we learnt a lot about area we visited. I have to add that participants happens to be the best group we encountered so far in any of our already completed trips with Road Scholar.
Thank you to everyone !!!!
— Review left July 31, 2023
What a trip! It truly could not have been better. Absolutely beautiful everywhere we went. Stunning views of blue, blue water, rocky cliffs, narrow terraces filled with grape vines, beyond charming colorful, vibrant villages, delicious food and wine... I could go on and on. Our guides Leonardo and Boris could not have been more enjoyable, kind and helpful. They both made it not only informative, but very fun! Also felt camaraderie with the group, which added greatly to the enjoyment. I would recommend this to anyone. My only advice: Be in very good shape and hike hills and steps often for at least a few months ahead of time. It was challenging. But worth it.
Peggy
— Review left June 22, 2023
A must see experience. Beautiful scenery, excellent guides, in depth history of the area. Could not have asked for a better trip.
— Review left June 19, 2023
I had a wonderful time on this trip. The leader and guides knew the area and arranged the day so we hiked at the right time and did hikes that I would not have done by myself. I learned a lot and had a great time interacting with my fellow travelers on the trip. I can't wait for my next road scholar adventure.
— Review left June 18, 2023
A very beautiful and rugged terrain. Every day was a wonderful experience hiking and experiencing the different villages. There were many uneven, rocky steps on some of the hikes. Not for beginner hikers!
Our leader, Leonardo and hiking guide, Boris were excellent. Their knowledge, skills and warm personalities really enhanced the trip.
The food was local , a wide variety of deliciousness. The hotel is near the sea, very clean and quaint.
The Cinque Terre is so charming - Be in good shape for the hiking!
— Review left June 15, 2023
Strong hiking ability required for this program. It involves climbing a lot of steps and walking on rocky uneven ground at a steady pace. You can opt out of the toughest sections.
— Review left June 12, 2023
What a wonderful trip! Kuddos to Roads Scholar for providing exceptional guides and lecturers. Every detail was attended to. Interesting side trips and fun dinners. Cannot say enough about the quality of the program. I am looking forward to my next adventure.
Barbara
— Review left June 8, 2023
I cannot stress enough that future participants in this program be prepared for LOTS of strenuous stepping up and stepping down during the hiking and visiting of the Cinque Terre
— Review left May 28, 2023
lovely trip--memorable vistas, hikes, food,, wine
highly recommend without reservation
— Review left May 1, 2023
The scenery is exquisite. The hikes are challenging. The downhills are filled with uneven terrain of all kinds. The food is wonderful.
— Review left April 26, 2023
Very worthwhile experience!!!! Can’t go wrong in choosing this trip for hiking, especially in Cinque Terre!
— Review left April 24, 2023
We just returned from Cinque Terre. Great trip; be sure to read about the hiking demands. The hikes are not long in distance but strenuous uphill and downhill climbs. You had to focus on where you were walking. We were lucky with great weather - especially since we went at the end of October. We were very glad we chose this date - it was busy on the trails and in the small towns. I can't imagine what it would be like in peak season. Leonardo, our leader, was excellent, flexible and very helpful. We opted for the ocean view room at the hotel and were very pleased with our accommodations. Its a short itinerary, only a week. You hike for the first 5 days. You might want to tag some extra time to one end o the trip to make it worth the long distance (we came from Oregon). I recommend you book your travel through Road Scholar so you can take advantage of the included transfers to and from the airport in Pisa. The hotel location is beautiful but not the easiest place to get to on your own.
— Review left November 7, 2022
Strenuous hiking, bring your sticks! Well worth the effort, lots of stairs, uneven paths, marvelous views and plenty of great food and wine. Knowledgeable and welcoming group leader Leonardo, who made accommodations for varied physical abilities and also dietary requirements within the group. Attractive hotel in Le Grazie, we paid for the upgrade to a sea view, and enjoyed the balcony. Our trip was in late October, less crowded, but still busy with tourists in the villages.
— Review left November 7, 2022
Hiking the Cinque Terra was a wonderful experience. It was physically taxing and intellectually stimulating. We learned much about the local area and its history, and we highly recommend the trip to others. It was our first Road Scholar expedition, and because of its excellence, we intend intend to participate in others.
— Review left November 6, 2022
I had a truly wonderful time! The hiking was a bit more difficult than some in the group were prepared for - it truly is "Spirited"- but we had a terrific pair of guides that were helpful, informative and patient. Through their efforts, everyone in the group did well and had a great time.
— Review left October 27, 2022
When my husband and I joined the Road Scholar group of 21 other hikers in the Cinque Terre, we hoped the weather would be fine; the hikes would be challenging; the guide would be knowledgeable; the food would be wonderful; and our fellow travelers would be fun, interesting, like-minded, and as eager for the experience as we were. We "scored" on every point!
This was a great trip! Leonardo, our local (from Rome) trip leader, and our hiking guide, Boris, were fantastic, and we connected with others on the trip (to the point where some of us are staying in touch and are planning another trip together). The hikes were spectacular with views that took my breath away (that said...anyone deciding to take this RS trip should be prepared for lengthy uphill climbs, rocky descents, and some narrow pathways with steep drop-offs). We learned a great deal about the Cinque Terre villages and how people lived in those locations from the distant past to today. The meals (all but 3 included) were fantastic (2 exceptions)...in particular, the last meal of the trip (at a vineyard with food and wine tastings) was over-the-top. And, in mid-October, we still had excellent weather with no rain, sunny days in the upper 70s, and pleasant nights. The hotel was also a little gem of a place in a great, walkable location.
Having now returned home and preparing our photos for our digital frame, we are re-living many special moments and fun times together with new friends. We highly recommend this RS trip to the Cinque Terre (especially with Leonardo and Boris!).
— Review left October 27, 2022
This was our third RS trip, and our first one outside the USA (though we’ve traveled to Europe over a dozen times). It was simply excellent. The hikes were gorgeous and often quite demanding (a few were perhaps more than “spirited“). Leonardo, our group leader, and Boris, our hiking leader, we’re simply fabulous. Our hotel was good (not excellent— showers are too small for adult humans). Meals were uneven - a few were excellent but one meal at the hotel was totally uninspired. We could perhaps have used a bit more free time, but that’s a quibble. We really loved this trip and will never forget it.
— Review left October 24, 2022
This is a wonderful trip for active hikers. For those who have done Alpine Hiking or Below and Beyond Mt. Blanc programs, the Cinque Terre hikes are shorter but more challenging with some steep ascents and descents and rugged trails. But the rewards are great, and, Boris and Leonardo, were great guides. It is thought-provoking to be hiking these trails in our high tech shoes and learn that centuries ago women walked these trails in bare feet balancing baskets of grapes on the head. Besides the hikes along the coast, there was also a wonderful hike through chestnut forests to see where they mine the carrara marble.
— Review left October 7, 2022
Our Group Leader Leonardo and hiking guide Boris were fantastic. They were knowledgeable, personable and thoughtful, and went out of their way to make sure each of had the best experience possible. The itinerary was well planned, the hotel was very comfortable and well located and the restaurants were excellent. Some hikes were more challenging than I expected but the views were amazing. I recommend this trip to fit people who can be on the go for an entire week.
— Review left October 2, 2022
This is definitely a challenging hiking program, with beautiful scenery and interesting history and information shared. There were options for the most difficult portions, but I didn't want to miss anything!
— Review left September 28, 2022
Great way to experience the Cinque Terre and surrounding area. Leonardo and Boris made up a great leadership team. They were very informative and knowledgeable. Accommodations were nice and comfortable, the food was great. The hiking was not a challenging as I thought it would be.
— Review left September 26, 2022
Fabulous trip with our tour guide Leonardo and hiking guide Boris. The hiking can be on the strenuous side with lots of ups and downs, and rocky paths plus heat/humidity (depending when you go) so you just have to be prepared. But would HIGHLY recommend this trip to others. Beautiful and fascinating area of Italy.
— Review left September 14, 2022
Spectacular scenery, challenging hiking, and a smorgasbord of delights for seafood lovers make this trip a great experience. Throw in two excellent leaders, each with a great sense of humor, and you've got a week worth remembering.
— Review left September 12, 2022
Extremely well-planned and well-presented program. The tour leader and hiking guide were the best I have ever encountered. The food, as is usually the case in Italy, was outstanding. Highly recommend this tour if you enjoy hiking in mountainous terrain with breathtaking views, followed by great food and wine!
— Review left September 12, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed the Cinque Terre program. Our guide Benedetta and the hiking guide Boris were amazing. Every hike was beautiful, food was good, and people were great. Loved this trip. Thank you.
— Review left September 5, 2022
Hiking the Cinque Terre was a fantastic program! If you like to hike and love beautiful scenery & great food...then this is the program for you!! The hikes were challenging, the scenery was breathtaking, and the food was outstanding. Leonardo & Boris, the group leaders, were very informative & inclusive. They provide a great tag-team approach to learning & make the week both FUN and INFORMATIVE! I highly recommend this program!!
— Review left June 22, 2022
The Hiking the Cinque Terre program was exceptional. Leonardo was a fantastic guide and I felt like I had gained a friend by the end of the program. He was very accommodating and thoughtful. The hikes were strenuous but there were options if you didn’t want to do a particular section of a hike. The visit to the winery was a highlight and one of the best experiences I have had on a RS trip.
— Review left June 6, 2022
My experience while hiking with Road Scholar was fabulous. Our trip guide Leonardo was superb at his job, was friendly, kind and a pleasure to be around. Our hiking guide, Boris was also top notch! Thank you for a fabulous week.
There are two recommendations I have for improving this trip.
First, the food was wonderful, but we were served practically the same dish from every restaurant; Pasta with Pesto or Pasta with a tomato muscle sauce. It was delicious but we must have been served that at least 4 or more times. A choice of entries and an option for more vegetables would be very nice.
Second, a bit more free time to peruse the streets and shop when in Monterossa and Sarzana would have been delightful.
Thank you again for a lovely adventure!
— Review left May 28, 2022
This journey to Cinque Terre was both fascinating and fun, even with a couple of rainy days at the start of the week. Our primary tour guide (Leonardo) was knowledgeable in the history and culture of each area we visited. Also a good mix of guided time and personal time. Excellent restaurant choices they have arranged. Highly recommended!
— Review left May 4, 2022
This was my first Road Scholar trip. It was a fabulous program with great hikes, terrific guides, spectacular views, and great food! I highly recommend this program!
— Review left May 2, 2022
Hiking in Cinque Terre was a beautiful, challenging experience! We used many modes of transportation-ferry, train, van and bus - to ably get around the area. Each visited site was unique. The hiking met all our expectations! The leaders, Leonardo and Boris, are a great team!
— Review left May 2, 2022
If you like to hike and travel this is the program for you! The terrain is challenging but very doable. Everyday you’re rewarded with incredible scenery and very knowledgeable and entertaining local guides. The cuisine is outstanding and I liked that some meals were at local restaurants. The trip to the vineyard combined with dinner and wine tasting was extra special! Thank you Road Scholar! Ciao!
— Review left April 22, 2022
The trip was fabulous, we love to hike and the scenery and trails here were fabulous. Several of the trails were challenging but rewarding. Scenery was incredible, as impressive as Patagonia and Nepal but different. The two primary leaders Leonardo and Boris were attentive, engaging and very funny. Most importantly they described the various hikes accurately so each participant could assess the appropriateness of each portion of the activities. They are a perfect team!
— Review left April 19, 2022
Hikes with amazing views separated by gourmet meals and regional wines! I can't think of a better way to experience the Cinque Terre region! Leonardo, the program leader, and Boris, the hiking guide, brought a gentle sense of humor and fun, which make the trip extra special! Thanks for a great trip!
— Review left October 18, 2021
Hiking the Cinque Terre was a fabulous trip. The hiking was challenging but worth the work to be able to enjoy the beauty of the area. The food and drink were delicious and plentiful. The people I met were just lovely and I am so happy that I had the opportunity to meet them. The guides Leonardo and Boris could not have done more for the group they are the ultimate professionals.
— Review left September 28, 2021
This walking tour is a great way to see a fascinating, beautiful part of Italy. Most of the trails include a lot of up and down hills and are very slippery when wet. Hiking sticks made the treks much easier but some of the trails were still harder than some in our group expected. Only about 1/2 of our group did all the included hikes, but the tour leaders provided interesting options for those who took time off to explore on their own. We saw much more of the region than just the five famous Cinque Terre villages, which enhanced the experience greatly.
— Review left January 4, 2020
The Cinque Terre is a beautiful place to visit and hiking it is wonderful way to see it. That being said, it is a physically challenging trip and training for it is critical. The views are amazing, achieved after going up hundreds of stone steps. My fitness band averaged 18,400 foot-steps each day. The food is wonderful, the group leader was great, and the group camaraderie was good. I would recommend this trip to any experienced hiker.
— Review left September 26, 2019
The hikes were challenging, but we worked up to the level
of each one. I really felt that our group was able to
immerse ourselves into the physical and cultural environment
of the Cinque Terre. Loved it.
— Review left June 16, 2019
This was an excellent but challenging program. With over 20 Road Scholar trips to compare I would strongly recommend this one which I rate high in all aspects from staffing, hotel, meals and educational experience. My only glitch was with the travel aspect where we missed a flight and Road Scholar failed to pick up at the PSA airport as scheduled.
— Review left May 31, 2019
Leonardo the group leader went above and beyond his call of duty. I was not feeling well when I reached Italy. He arranged for a doctor to come to the hotel to see me. The doctor gave me an injection and I felt better immediately and was able to do all the hiking. Kudos to our trip leader!!!
I must say the hking experience was spectacular.
— Review left May 21, 2019
I appreciated the affordability of this program and all the things that were included in the price. It was a real pleasure to meet fellow Road Scholars with the same sense of adventure; I felt at home in this group almost immediately!
— Review left April 30, 2019