Corniglia the smallest and the most isolated village of the five
Because of its altitude, its small size and the fact it has no harbour, Corniglia is the least visited, but this is a plus, indeed!
Once you reach it, you feel a wonderful, stress-relieving sense of isolation and quietness.
Its vineyards
Vineyards are extremely important for the produce of the famous Cinque Terre wine and the scenery they create are honey for the eyes. Corniglia has been isolated for all its existence, and that’s reflected in the character of its people. Despite its isolation and quietness, it is, anyway, lively all time of the year with the exception of November, January and February, when most of the businesses are closed. But those looking for a resting and peaceful place with unparalleled views are more than welcomed.
Corniglia beauties are not on only natural
The origin of the village dates back to the Roman Age as testified by the name, which finds its roots in Gens Cornelia, the Roman family to whom the land belonged.
The Romans knew Corniglia very well thanks to its delicious wine. During Pompei archeological excavations wine vases were found bearing the name “Cornelia”.
In the Middle Ages it was a possession of the counts of Lavagna, the lords of Carpena and of Luni. In 1254 Pope Innocent IV gave it to Nicolò Fieschi, who held it until 1276, when the village was acquired by the Republic of Genoa.
St. Peter’s Church
The church of Saint Peter is one of the most beautiful proof of Corniglia ancient splendor and historical importance. It rises in the upper part of the village and was built in 1334 on a pre-existing XI century building. It has a Baroque style, with some Gothic and Ligurian elements. The XIV century facade is adorned by a 1351 Carrara white marble rose window, very similar to Saint Lawrence Church in Manarola.
Corniglia provides a taste of real Italy
it is a good place where relaxing and enjoying life at a slower pace. It is the perfect place to taste a glass of wine and a dish of local food, loosen the walking boots or sit in the town square reading a book.
People having aperitif at sunset on the belvedere
You can also choose to walk till Santa Maria Belvedere to admire the spectacular view of the Ligurian sea and of the other Cinque Terre villages.
the view on the Cinque Terre coastline towards Manarola
The sea view bar on Corniglia belvedere terrace[
Crystal clear water below, so clear that it seems you can touch the rocks under the waters, and immense spaces in front of you
contrast with the hues of flowers and plants
Bounganville flowers in Corniglia, so common in all the Cinque Terre
and the village always offer great spots for delicious aperitif drinks surrounded by grapes and vine leaves
Grapes and vine leaves
Corniglia must do:
– walking down (or up) the Scalinata Lardarina (375 steps), beautiful, long set of stairs that connects the town of Corniglia to the train station
– hiking to Monterosso, Corniglia or following the shorter but amazing trails taking up to Santuario of Reggio and to San Bernardino
– taking a sunset walk to the Belvedere and have an aperitif drink at one of the colourful pubs of the village
– having a Pasta and Pesto class at the property you booked
Corniglia services: info point of the Cinque Terre National Park right at the train station for maps and all about hiking trails.
How to reach Corniglia by Car
Wether you are coming from Milan or Genoa or from the South exit at the sign LA SPEZIA. Keep driving following CINQUE TERRE signs.
How to reach Corniglia by Train
If you are coming from Milan Malpensa or Linate take the shuttle to MILAN CENTRAL STATION. Usually every 2 hours there is a train to Monterosso (it takes 3 hours approx.). Get off in Monterosso.
If you are coming from the south get off in LA SPEZIA. Then both from Monterosso or La Spezia take a local train to Corniglia.
From the train station shuttle service provided from the Cinque Terre National Park. Service included in the Cinque Terre Card, that you can buy either in La Spezia or in Monterosso at the National Park info points. In case you haven’t bought your card before reaching the village, you can buy it at the info point of Corniglia train station.
