Europe's most stunning seaside walk goes through 5 towns with gorgeous beaches

Celebrated as amongst Europe's finest coastal walks, this picturesque route guides you through stunning villages and spectacular vistas.

Via dell'Amore isn't dubbed the "Path of Love" without good reason - and it's definitely worth a visit if you're after a scenic spot. According to AllTrails, this UNESCO-listed trail is regarded as the globe's most romantic walk, thanks to its dramatic clifftops, delightful villages and panoramic views of the sparkling waters beneath.

Situated in Cinque Terre, along Italy's northwestern coastline, this famous pathway links the region's two most southern settlements - Riomaggiore and Manarola - and has earned recognition as one of Europe's premier three walks by travel blog, The World is Waiting.

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Initially carved out during the 1920s whilst building the coastal railway, legend tells that the route swiftly became a romantic rendezvous spot for sweethearts from the adjacent villages, reports the Express.

Nowadays, the tunnel linking both communities throughout the journey brims with love proclamations and padlocks deposited by couples from across the world who come to visit the iconic spot.

Among the most striking features stands a sculpture depicting a pair locked in an embrace against the ocean backdrop, which becomes particularly enchanting as twilight falls and the sun's rays dance across the water.

Roughly midway along the trail, there is a delightful café which provides a peaceful spot to savour the scenery whilst enjoying a cooling beverage. Riomaggiore, the trail's starting point, is a 13th-century village ingeniously built into the steep, rocky terrain. The tall houses have two entrances - one at street level and another higher up to accommodate the hillside.

The town is a labyrinth of narrow lanes, stone staircases, and vibrant buildings that seem to defy gravity as they ascend from the cliffs. Riomaggiore also boasts a breathtaking beach just a stone's throw away from the harbour, with turquoise waters framed by the dramatic cliffs of the Liguria coastline.

Manarola, similarly, is dramatically situated on a high rock about 70 metres above sea level. This village features a tiny harbour and a quaint square surrounded by multicoloured houses all overlooking the sea.

After being shut for 12 years due to a landslide, the Via dell'Amore officially reopened in 2024. Access is restricted to certain times of the year, and visitors are advised to book a time slot in advance via the official Cinque Terre website. From June 1st to October 25th, the path stays open from 9am to 9.30pm, with the last admissions at 9pm.

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