Italy’s famous ‘Path of Love,’ also known as the Via dell’Amore, has reopened after a decade of extensive repairs following a landslide in 2012. The one-kilometer walking trail, considered the most romantic walk in the world, can now be enjoyed by locals from 8 am to 7 pm, with tourists able to book one-hour time slots for a fee starting in August. The path spans from Riomaggiore to Manarola, offering stunning views of the Cinque Terre coastline and colorful architectural wonders. The restoration project included the installation of a monitoring system to detect potential landslides in advance, as well as the reinforcement of the landscape with steel mesh and the planting of 8,800 plants.
Built in the early 20th century to provide railway workers with a way to travel between Riomaggiore and Manarola during the construction of a tunnel, the Via dell’Amore has become a popular destination for lovers. The path offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the picturesque villages that make up the Cinque Terre UNESCO World Heritage Site. The reopening of the path is a welcome development for visitors and locals alike, as it provides an opportunity to experience the unique beauty of this iconic location without the threat of overcrowding and overtourism. Fines have been introduced to deter tourists from blocking traffic or pedestrians while taking selfies, in an effort to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the area.
The Via dell’Amore is part of the Sentiero Azzuro, or ‘Blue Path’, which is a popular hiking trail in Cinque Terre National Park connecting the five villages in the region. Starting in Riomaggiore and ending in Monterosso al Mare, the Blue Path offers a scenic route through Manarola, Corniglia, and Vernazza. The entire trail is approximately 12 kilometers long and reaches a maximum altitude of 200 meters in Vernazza, taking about five hours to complete. The Via dell’Amore is the first section of the Blue Path, offering visitors a taste of the natural beauty and charm of the Cinque Terre coastline.
The reopening of the Via dell’Amore is a significant milestone for the region, allowing visitors to once again explore this iconic walkway and experience the romance and beauty of the Cinque Terre coastline. The path’s closure in 2012 following a landslide had left many disappointed, but the extensive repair and restoration efforts have ensured that it is now safe for travel. The installation of a monitoring system and the reinforcement of the landscape with steel mesh and plants have further enhanced the safety and stability of the path, providing peace of mind for those looking to enjoy the stunning views and unique atmosphere of the area.
As a popular destination for tourists, the Cinque Terre region has long been grappling with issues of overtourism and overcrowding. The reopening of the Via dell’Amore comes with new regulations and fines to deter disruptive behavior and ensure the preservation of the area’s natural and cultural heritage. The decision to limit the number of visitors and introduce time slots for tourists reflects a commitment to sustainable tourism practices and the protection of this unique destination. Visitors can now enjoy the beauty of the Cinque Terre coastline in a responsible and respectful manner, ensuring that future generations can also experience the magic of this iconic location.
