Known for its stunning Fresco paintings, unparalleled cuisine and beautiful scenery, Italy is a top destination for holidaymakers of all ages and travel preferences. However, the cliff-edge trails of Amalfi and the mountainous routes through the Dolomites can often be overlooked by the more popular city locations.
For those who are keen to escape the buzz of tourist hubs like Rome and Milan, Italy’s varied terrain has steadily become a rite of passage for any keen hiker. So, for your next walking getaway consider one of the following trails to experience the best of what this marvellous country has to offer.
The Dolomites
The Alpine mountain range of the Dolomites boasts unique geological features that have earnt it a UNESCO status as a World Heritage Site. Its rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes make it a popular choice for hikers.
Routes differ in difficulty levels, with some routes catering for Via Ferrata mountaineers, so be sure to choose the right trail for you. The most famous of them all is the Alta Via 1, which is regarded as a perfect introductory trek to the Italian Alps.
Prepare for the rocky terrain of the Dolomites by packing durable and supportive walking boots with excellent grip to navigate the elevation changes.
The Cinque Terre
The five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, part of Liguria’s picture-postcard coastal region, are connected by the Sentiero Azzuro (Blue Trail). The old seaside villages, known for the colourful houses nestled on the cliff’s edge, are the epitome of authentic Italy.
Follow the trail through vineyards, quiet coastal corners and high view points where you will be able to truly appreciate the beauty of this seaside oasis. Before setting off, be aware that the trails can be quite narrow and often with sections cut off due to previous weather conditions.
Tuscany
Tuscany’s rolling hills and abundance of countryside vineyards are, for many, exactly what comes to mind when picturing traditional Italy. Although its capital is the art-lover’s haven of Florence, Tuscany is characterised by lush forests and medieval hilltop towns.
Take a step back in time by walking the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route that provides a mix of both easy and challenging sections. Spanning 354km through the Tuscan areas of Lucca and Siena and finishing in Rome, you can choose how long you want to spend exploring this historic path.
The Amalfi Coast
Although a much busier part of Italy, when timed well, a walking holiday in the Amalfi Coast provides some of the best views of the beautiful coastline without the excessive crowds.
Opting to visit in Spring or Autumn will still guarantee glorious weather, and will allow you to enjoy the breathtaking vistas along the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods).
Despite its high location, the trail is relatively flat. You should still choose to wear hiking boots with good traction, though, to safely traverse the cliffside paths and occasional steep sections.
Photo credit: header, dolomites, cinque terre, siena, path of the gods
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