Sentiero Rosso (Red Trail) to Monte Negro
While the coastal paths grab all the headlines, the Sentiero Rosso — Trail No. 1 of the Cinque Terre National Park — climbs inland from Riomaggiore through terraced vineyards and chestnut forest to the ridge of Monte Negro at 812 m, delivering vertiginous views over both the coast and the Ligurian Apennines. This is the Cinque Terre that most visitors never see.
The Route
The trail starts from the upper part of Riomaggiore village and ascends steeply through dry-stone terraces draped in Bosco, Albarola and Vermentino vines — the same grapes used to make Cinque Terre DOC white wine. In September the harvest is underway and the air smells of crushed grapes.
At the ridge you join the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri, a long-distance path running the length of Liguria. On a clear day you can see Corsica to the south and the Alps to the north.
Wildlife and Wildflowers
The macchia scrubland above the vineyards is home to peregrine falcons, Dartford warblers and, in spring, a spectacular show of wild orchids and cistus. Slow down and look — this is a biodiversity hotspot within the national park.
Carry at least 1.5 litres of water: there are no fountains on the upper section and the exposed ridge gets ferociously hot in July and August. Early morning starts are essential in summer.
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