The Heart of the Cinque Terre Passion Ride
The Focaccia route (CLASSIC) packs all the elements that make this area
unique into just a few kilometers. Starting from La Spezia, the route gradually winds its way toward Marinasco and Foce, where the
road begins to climb and the view opens up onto the Gulf, immediately setting the tone for the route. Once past the first section, the route heads inland toward Riccò del Golfo di La Spezia, along narrower, more even roads, ideal for finding your own pace. The climb toward Pizzo Cuchelone represents the heart of the itinerary: steady but challenging, it requires careful pacing. From the crest, the road descends toward Pignone with a smoother stretch, allowing you to recover before returning to the coast. The entrance to Monterosso marks a new change of scenery: the sea reappears suddenly, and the route enters its most iconic stretch. The scenic road connects Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, following the coastline’s contours through curves suspended over the sea, terraced vineyards, and views that make every kilometer different from the last. The final climb toward Monte della Madonna is the final act before returning to La Spezia.

Between the sea, the inland countryside, and hidden ridges

The Pesto Route (Levanto Escape) is designed for those seeking a longer ride, exploring even the less-known stretches. The route starts in La Spezia with the first few challenging kilometers, which help warm up your
legs before the climb toward Marinasco and Foce, where the effort is immediately rewarded by the view opening up onto the Gulf. Heading inland toward Riccò del Golfo di La Spezia, the route becomes quieter. Woods and shaded stretches accompany a steady ride, inviting you to find your own pace before the most challenging climb. The ascent to Pizzo Cuchelone puts you to the test with steady gradients and kilometers that require patience and careful management of energy. After the summit, the route descends toward Pignone with a smoother stretch, before pushing again to the junction leading to Levanto. The long descent toward the sea is one of the most rewarding moments of the route: wide, fast, and scenic. From here begins the iconic stretch: the coastal return to Monterosso, with the scenic road hugging the sea and guiding you through all the splendor of the Cinque Terre. Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore unfold in succession amid poetic vistas, terraced vineyards, and the scent of the sea ever-present. The final climb toward Monte della Madonna is the last hurdle before returning to La Spezia, bringing to a close an intense and complete journey.

For more info please contact: info@cinqueterrepassionride.it