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Italy

Cinque Terre, Carrara and Medieval Hill Towns

Program No. 14299RJ
Explore the Cinque Terre — the Italian Riviera’s colorful villages carved above the Mediterranean Sea — and learn about medieval life, Michelangelo and the history of nearby Lerici.
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Small Group
Length
11 days
Rating (4.94)
Activity Level
Starts at
4,449
Flights start at
1,050

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Itinerary
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. Read More.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
11 days
10 nights
What's Included
21 meals ( 9B, 6L, 6D )
6 expert-led lectures
16 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
9 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m. Transfer from Pisa airport to hotel is 50 miles (one-hour ride). The orientation walk in Lerici is less than 1 mile.
Afternoon:
Check in and settle in. At 3:45 p.m., we will gather in the hotel lobby as we embark on an insightful neighborhood walk led by our experienced Group Leader. Explore the vibrant surroundings of our accommodations with our knowledgeable guide highlighting key points of interest such as nearby ATMs, pharmacies, markets, and more. Delve into the bustling local scene, discovering hidden gems and practical amenities to enhance our stay in Lerici. This walk offers the perfect opportunity to familiarize ourselves with the neighborhood's layout and uncover valuable resources for our convenience. Breakfasts will be buffets. Other included meals will be plated and served from a set menu unless indicated otherwise; water is included, and other beverages will be available for purchase. Evenings at leisure offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable through personal independent exploration, attending performances or other events, or simply relaxing and making new friends among fellow participants. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions. Transportation will be provided primarily by bus and regional train. Periods in the schedule designated as "Free time" and "At leisure" offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times might change due to local circumstances/conditions. We will alert you as quickly as possible in the event of changes. Thank you for being so understanding. Next, we will join our Group Leader in a welcome cocktail (or fruit juice).
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the full day ahead.
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; some uneven urban stone sidewalks and streets, cobblestones, and gradual inclines and steps. Elective stroll on the sea walk, approximately 45 minutes (1 mile).
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Join the group in the hotel meeting room for our comprehensive orientation session, where we'll kick off our adventure by reviewing the up-to-date program schedule and discussing essential logistics. Our Group Leader will outline roles and responsibilities, ensuring everyone is well-prepared for the journey ahead. We'll cover safety guidelines and emergency procedures and address any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. Our Group Leader will lead us on a walking field trip to explore the charming town of Lerici, including the magnificent outer courtyard of a grand 13th-century castle. This imposing structure overlooks a bay nestled within the Golfo della Spezia, a haven often referred to as the Golfo dei Poeti for the esteemed writers and poets who have been enamored with this picturesque locale for centuries, from Dante and Petrarch to Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley. Continuing our walk, we will meander along the sea walk, leading us to San Terenzo. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views stretching across the waters, offering glimpses of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto islands.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Indulge in the breathtaking vistas of the bay as we make our way back to the hotel. For your convenience, you can choose how you return, either by bus or through a delightful stroll along the picturesque sea walk, a leisurely 45-minute journey that immerses you in the coastal charm. Upon reaching the hotel, we will be joined by a knowledgeable local expert who will join us for an insightful introduction to the region of Liguria. Prepare to embark on a fascinating journey as we delve into this remarkable area's rich history and cultural wonders, known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites. This engaging session will give us a deeper understanding of the region's significance, allowing us to appreciate further the beauty and heritage surrounding us. From the UNESCO inscription: "The Ligurian coast between Cinque Terre and Portovenere is a cultural landscape of great scenic and cultural value. The layout and disposition of the small towns and the shaping of the surrounding landscape, overcoming the disadvantages of a steep, uneven terrain, encapsulate the continuous history of human settlement in this region over the past millennium."
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train; riding approximately 1.5 hours throughout the day. Getting on/off a boat; riding approximately 30 minutes. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; stone pavement with inclines, unavoidable stairs, some with no handrail.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We'll travel by bus from Lerici to the nearby town of Sarzana, where we'll catch a regional train to Vernazza. Once in Vernazza, a local expert will lead us on a walking tour of this charming town, featuring a pedestrian main road, a lively public square, and a scenic harbor/marina. Following our visit to Vernazza, we'll board the regional train to Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost village of the Cinque Terre. For those eager for adventure, our Group Leader will guide us on a trek along the monastery footpath above the town. For a more leisurely experience, we'll enjoy an expert-led exploration of Monterosso's historic old town. We'll stroll along its picturesque beachfront and meander through narrow streets with colorful houses and quaint shops. Our local expert will share fascinating stories and insights, revealing the village's rich history and culture. Please note that there is a possibility of encountering crowded conditions during our visit.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. You can also consult your list of suggested restaurants in your program materials.
Afternoon:
We will gather at a designated time and location to board a boat bound for Portovenere. Brace yourself for a picturesque ride as we glide along the coastline, marveling at the rugged beauty of the Cinque Terre. Upon arrival, led by our local expert, we will meander through the narrow streets adorned with tall and vibrant houses, meticulously built side by side like an impenetrable fortress. During our time in Portovenere, you can explore the town independently. Visit the 12th-century chapel perched on the promontory, gracefully extending into the sea, offering a serene and breathtaking setting. The heart of Portovenere, closed to traffic, beckons with its delightful blend of art galleries, cozy cafés, and much more. Our journey concludes as we board the boat, heading back to Lerici. NOTE: In case of inclement weather or unsafe sea conditions, our Group Leader will make every effort to reschedule the boating field trip, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Please note that we may encounter crowded conditions during our visits.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a public bus; riding about 2 miles, 30 minutes. Walking up to 4 miles; paved country road (not a busy thoroughfare), no sidewalks, inclines, unavoidable steps, some with no handrail. Elective walk is along a 2.5-mile paved road with no sidewalks but light traffic and pedestrian-friendly. The elective walk takes about an hour including stops to enjoy panoramic vistas of the sea below.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In the hotel meeting room, our local expert presents an overview of the English poets and writers who found inspiration in the scenic Gulf of La Spezia, which has earned the poetic moniker "Gulf of Poets." This enlightening presentation will delve into the lives and works of these literary figures, immersing us in the rich cultural tapestry that graces this breathtaking natural harbor. Following a short break, we will embark on a journey aboard the public bus to the vibrant village of Tellaro, nestled at the eastern end of the Gulf of La Spezia. Tellaro proudly holds the prestigious title of being designated as one of the "Borghi più belli d'Italia" — the most beautiful villages in Italy. Prepare to be enchanted by its charm. Accompanied by our local expert, we will stroll along the narrow, paved path that unveils the picturesque marina and the small church dedicated to St. George. As we wander through the village, stories and legends will come to life, including the fascinating tale of a giant octopus that, according to local lore, saved the village from marauding Saracen pirates in 1660 by ringing the church bell to warn the inhabitants.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Together with our Group Leader, we will take a leisurely walk back to the hotel, following the scenic 2.5-mile paved road that gracefully connects Tellaro and Lerici. Although there are no sidewalks, the traffic is light and pedestrian-friendly, ensuring a pleasant and safe journey. For those who prefer an alternative to walking, the option to ride the public bus with our local expert and return to the hotel is also available. Later in the afternoon, we will reconvene in the hotel meeting room for an enticing presentation on the culinary traditions of the region by a passionate local expert. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds as we delve into the culinary traditions of Liguria and Lunigiana. This immersive session will offer us a deeper understanding of the region's rich gastronomic heritage, enlightening us about the local cuisine's flavors, techniques, and cultural significance.
Dinner:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 95 miles throughout the day, approximately 2.5 hours total riding time; winding, hilly, country roads. Walking about 2 miles throughout the day, uneven sidewalks paved with cobblestones and unavoidable stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Prepare for a delightful adventure as we board a comfortable bus and embark on a scenic journey to a charming agriturismo in the picturesque Lunigiana hills within the breathtaking Tuscan-Emilian National Apennine Park. An agriturismo is a charming, independently-owned farm that offers accommodations and delectable meals, excellently complementing their farming activities. Our destination is the renowned Montagna Verde, a thriving organic farm sprawling across an impressive 1,500 acres of protected land at the foothills of the majestic Apennine Mountain range. Upon arrival, we will gather in the welcoming embrace of the agriturismo, where a local expert will engage us with an enlightening presentation. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of booksellers and pilgrim routes that have woven their way through the tapestry of Lunigiana since the Middle Ages, and marvel at how these traditions continue to thrive even today. Our gracious hosts will invite us to an engaging cooking demonstration, allowing us to delve into the region's culinary treasures and witness the preparation of traditional dishes firsthand. We will then embark on a walking field trip through the medieval hamlet of Apella. Prepare to be transported back in time as we wander through its cobbled streets, as our journey will lead us to a traditional chestnut-drying room, where we will have the unique opportunity to peek into this age-old process. These drying rooms typically consist of two levels in which the chestnuts above are dried slowly by chestnut wood burning below. These dried chestnuts are then transformed into flavorful flour, utilized in many delightful dishes that epitomize the region's culinary heritage.
Lunch:
At the agriturismo.
Afternoon:
Following lunch, we return to our hotel in Lerici by bus. Later in the afternoon, in a classroom session at the hotel led by our Group Leader, we will delve into the intricate tapestry of Italian society, exploring its regional nuances and the profound influence of national institutions that continue to shape the lives of its residents with a lecture on Italy today.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
The extent of walking and other activities during free time is according to personal choice. An elective, challenging hike of about 2.5 miles, approximately 2 hours, involves uneven dirt and stone paths with steep inclines, no handrails, and unavoidable steps. Hiking shoes are required for the walk; walking poles/sticks are strongly encouraged.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We offer an optional hike for those up for an intrepid physical challenge! Accompanied by a local expert, interested participants can take a scenic journey along the park trail that connects Corniglia and Vernazza, reaching Corniglia by taxi and regional train before starting the hike. Hiking the Cinque Terre Park trails requires focus and agility, as the terrain is uneven and the trail narrow, requiring attention when passing other hikers. To ensure your comfort and safety, coming prepared with good hiking shoes, water bottles, backpacks, hats, and walking poles/sticks is critical. Free time. Take this opportunity for independent personal exploration to see and do what interests you most. You can also consult your suggested Free Time activities list in your program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Lunch:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Afternoon:
Free time continues.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 50 miles throughout the day, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles; traffic-free center, uneven terrain, inclines paved with cobblestones, unavoidable steps including some without handrail. Elective walk about 2 miles, approximately 1 hour; uneven dirt path, steep incline.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We board our bus, destined for the enchanting hamlet of Filetto, located near Villafranca. Led by a knowledgeable local expert, we will explore this walled village, uncovering its hidden treasures and rich history. For those seeking an adventurous experience and the stamina to embark on a thrilling trek, our local expert will guide us along a section of the famed Via Francigena, the Pilgrim's Path. This ancient route connects Canterbury in England to Rome, offering a remarkable pilgrimage. This elective walk will take us through uneven terrain, including a steep hill, as we approach Virgoletta/Bagnone. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, our Group Leader will accompany them on a comfortable ride aboard our bus to Bagnone. Once the entire group reunites, we will continue our journey to Pontremoli, a beautiful medieval town nestled within the picturesque region of Lunigiana.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Immerse yourself in the charm of Pontremoli as we embark on a walking exploration of this pedestrian-friendly town. Led by a knowledgeable local expert, we will delve into its rich history, evident in the magnificent medieval bridges, elegant Baroque residences, and inviting coffee shops that grace its streets. Pontremoli, an exquisite medieval town nestled in the scenic region of Lunigiana, boasts a rich and storied history. Its origins trace back to the Roman era, and throughout the centuries, it flourished as an important trading and strategic hub along the Via Francigena pilgrimage route. The town's impressive medieval architecture, including its iconic bridges and fortified structures, bears witness to its past as a political and cultural significance center. Our leisurely walk will culminate at the town's outskirts, where a breathtaking panorama of the picturesque countryside awaits us, offering a captivating glimpse of the surrounding beauty. In Pontremoli, we will have the opportunity to delve into the intriguing past by visiting the remarkable 11th-century Castle of Piagnaro. Within its walls, we will discover the recently renovated Museum of Statue Stele, which proudly showcases prehistoric monoliths adorned with intricate human figures, providing a fascinating glimpse into the area's ancient heritage. In the late afternoon, we will reboard the bus and embark on a ride back to Lerici.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 40 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours of riding time. Walking up to 3 miles; steep inclines, uneven pavement, steps without handrails. From the bus drop-off point in Volastra, elective short walk; the very narrow, uneven path to the terraced vineyard; single file, no railings, bench available for anyone not electing to do the vineyard walk.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We step aboard our bus accompanied by our local expert, embarking on a journey to discover more of the mesmerizing Cinque Terre. Our route will take us up into the hills above the Gulf of La Spezia, bringing us to the picturesque village of Riomaggiore, where a world of charm awaits our exploration. Riomaggiore, part of the renowned Cinque Terre, boasts a remarkable history that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to the 8th century when it was established as a small fishing village by settlers from Genoa. Over time, Riomaggiore grew and thrived as a maritime hub, playing a significant role in trade and commerce along the Ligurian coast. After we visit Riomaggiore, we will continue our adventure by boarding a regional train that will transport us to the village of Manarola, the second gem of the Cinque Terre. Manarola's origins can be traced back to medieval times when it served as a strategic lookout point and fortified village against pirate raids. Here, we will embark on a walking field trip to the marina, offering us exquisite vistas of the village's colorful façades and the terraced vineyards that grace the landscape. Our exploration of Manarola continues as we ascend to the summit of the hill town, allowing us to savor panoramic views that showcase the beauty and character of the village. After taking in the breathtaking vistas, we will rejoin our bus and venture further up into the terraced hills, reaching the charming hamlet of Volastra. Led by our local expert, we can partake in an elective walk through the vineyard, where we will gain insights into the intricate art of terrace construction, a centuries-old practice that enabled the local community to forge a livelihood from the rugged mountainside. Please note that we may encounter crowded conditions during our visits.
Lunch:
At a local winery.
Afternoon:
On our return journey to the hotel in Lerici by bus. Upon our return, we will convene at the hotel for a lecture on Carrara marble and Michelangelo, which will serve as an enlightening prelude to our field trip to Carrara, the sculpting studio and quarries. This lecture will delve into the rich history of Carrara marble, a prized material that has inspired countless artists, including Michelangelo and Antonio Canova, and the significance of this iconic stone in the world of art and sculpture.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 40 miles throughout the day on steep, narrow, winding roads, approximately 2 hours riding time. Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day; extended standing during field trips, dirt, and loose stone path at the quarry.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will travel by bus with a local expert on a field trip to a workshop in Carrara and its quarries perched above. We delve into the fascinating history of marble, tracing its roots to the depths of ancient times, and learn how generations of skilled artisans have honed their craft, transforming raw blocks of stone into works of enduring beauty that grace the world's most esteemed architectural wonders. A breathtaking panorama unfolds as we ascend by bus to the quarries above the town. Here, in the heart of the quarries, we witness the evolution of excavation as mechanized equipment has revolutionized the process, juxtaposing tradition with technological prowess. Under the guidance of our knowledgeable local expert, we will embark on a walking field trip through Carrara's main square, where we will have the opportunity to witness the blend of historic and modern marble monuments. The square will come alive with the rich heritage and artistic mastery that Carrara is renowned for, showcasing the timeless beauty of this precious material.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After our lunch, we will regroup and reboard the bus, continuing our journey towards Pisa to check into our hotel, where a warm and comfortable check-in awaits us. Free time. Take this opportunity for independent personal exploration to see and do what interests you most. You can also consult your suggested Free Time activities list in your program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Recap your adventures and share your favorite memories with your fellow participants over our plated farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s Transportation Information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel restaurant; for those with early departures, the hotel will prepare a bag breakfast with a fruit, a roll or pastry, fruit juice, and water to take away. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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