Hiking and wine tasting experience

Thinking about adding a touch of adventure and flavor to your trip to Italy’s stunning Cinque Terre? This hiking and wine tasting experience offers a chance to explore the countryside, enjoy panoramic views, and sample biodynamic products—all guided by a local who knows the area inside and out. It’s a budget-friendly way to see some of the most beautiful landscapes away from the crowds, but it’s not without its considerations.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on authenticity and small-group intimacy — limited to just 8 participants, so you’re not just another face in a crowd. Plus, the chance to sip wine at a biodynamic farm with such scenic views is a genuine highlight. On the flip side, it’s a fairly active 4-hour walk, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re ready for some light trekking paired with wine and stunning vistas, this could be a perfect fit.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who appreciate nature, scenic hikes, and local food and drink culture. If you’re someone who loves combining outdoor activity with a culinary twist, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. Just keep in mind the physical requirements and the need to bring comfortable shoes and sun protection.

Key Points

• Scenic Hiking: Walk through vineyards and countryside with spectacular sea views.
• Authentic Experience: Led by a knowledgeable local guide, away from tourist crowds.
• Biodynamic Products: Taste unique wines and snacks at an exclusive farm.
• Physical Activity: Roughly 7 km of walking with some vertical climbing; good for active travelers.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Flexible & Affordable: Reserve now, pay later, with a reasonable price point of around $57. per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point & First Leg: Riomaggiore to Montenero Sanctuary

The adventure begins in Riomaggiore, one of the most iconic villages of the Cinque Terre. From here, you’ll be led by a certified nature guide on a 2 km hike uphill to the Santuario of Montenero—a shrine perched above the village offering sweeping views of the Ligurian coast. The trail is manageable but involves some ascent, making it a good warm-up for those with a moderate level of fitness.

We loved the way the guide shared insights into local flora and landscape history, making the walk both engaging and educational. The scenic views from the sanctuary are the first of many highlights, giving you a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to pause and appreciate the landscape.

The Scenic Pause & Photo Spot

Once at the top, you’ll take a brief 10-minute break. This is a chance to hydrate, take some pictures, and absorb the peaceful surroundings. The panoramic vistas here are some of the best you’ll see in the area, with the colorful villages stretching along the coastline and the sea shimmering below.

Flat Trail & Mediterranean Fragrance

The route continues on a flatter 1.5 km path through Mediterranean vegetation. Here, the air is thick with aromas of herbs, olives, and honey. This section is more relaxed but equally beautiful, offering a different perspective of the landscape — perfect for those who prefer a less strenuous walk but still want to experience the nature.

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The Highlight: Stella di Lemmen Farm & Wine Tasting

The real treat comes as you reach the Stella di Lemmen biodynamic farm. For €10, you’ll get a tasting session, which includes a glass of wine, olives, honey, and taralli. The farm’s biodynamic approach means the products are crafted with care and respect for nature, giving you a taste of authentic local terroir.

We found this part particularly charming. The farm offers a peaceful, exclusive vibe, with the chance to learn about sustainable farming practices from your guide. The wine itself is a highlight, especially if you’re a fan of local varieties. The tasting lasts at least 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to savor and soak in the atmosphere.

Return to Riomaggiore

Afterward, you’ll retrace your steps back to Riomaggiore. The hike back generally follows the same trail, providing another chance to enjoy the views and reflect on the experience. The entire hike covers about 7 km with a vertical drop of 350 meters, making it accessible for most with average fitness but perhaps a challenge for complete beginners or those with mobility issues.

What to Expect & Practical Info

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start in Riomaggiore, with a brief walk through the village before ascending to Montenero Sanctuary
• Enjoy scenic photo stops and take in panoramic views at the sanctuary
• Continue on a flatter trail through fragrant Mediterranean vegetation
• Visit the biodynamic Stella di Lemmen farm for wine tasting and snacks
• Return to Riomaggiore along the same trail, completing approximately 7 km of gentle but engaging hiking

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes the guidance of an experienced, certified local guide, ensuring you learn about the area, its flora, and its wine. The wine tasting at the farm costs €10, payable on-site, and comes with a glass of wine and snacks. There’s also a non-alcoholic option at €5 if preferred.

Remember, you’ll want to bring:
– Comfortable shoes (sports shoes are recommended)
– Sun protection: hat, sunscreen
– Water and snacks, especially since the tour lasts around 4 hours
– Light, breathable clothing suited for outdoor activity

Not allowed are high heels, sandals, large bags, or anything that might hinder mobility or safety. The tour is not suitable for children under 8, people with mobility restrictions, or anyone with specific health issues listed in the guidelines.

Group Size & Flexibility

The small group of up to 8 participants keeps the experience intimate and allows for personal interaction. Plus, with flexible booking options, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, making it easier to plan your trip without upfront commitments.

The Real Value for Travelers

At around $57 per person, this tour offers a lot for those who love combining outdoor activity with authentic tastings and stunning scenery. The price includes a guided hike, panoramic photo stops, and a wine tasting in a peaceful farm setting.

Compared to other experiences in Cinque Terre, which can be pricey and crowded, this offers a more relaxed, genuine taste of the countryside. We’ve seen reviews stating that the views are among the best in the area, and that the guide’s local knowledge adds a layer of richness to the experience.

While it’s a physically active tour, the manageable distance and moderate elevation make it accessible to most people with average fitness levels. Plus, the small group format means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, allowing for a more personalized, immersive experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is ideal for travelers who:
– Appreciate nature and scenic landscapes
– Want to escape the crowds of the popular villages
– Are interested in local food and wine culture
– Enjoy light physical activity without it feeling strenuous
– Are traveling with someone who prefers a guided experience rather than DIY hikes
– Are comfortable with a 4-hour outdoor walk with basic fitness requirements

If you’re after a leisurely day with a blend of walking, wine, and gorgeous views, this tour hits all the right notes. Just keep in mind it’s not suitable for small children, those with mobility issues, or anyone needing a very relaxed, seated experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 8, mainly because of the walking involved and the activity’s physical nature.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, snacks, and clothing suited for outdoor walking are recommended. Sunscreen, a hat, and sports shoes are especially important.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, covering about 7 km with some elevation change.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, there’s a non-alcoholic option available at €5, which includes snacks and water.

Is the price reasonable?
Given the guided hike, scenic views, and exclusive wine tasting, most find the €56.94 price good value, especially considering the small group size.

What if it rains?
The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; check weather forecasts and confirm with your guide if unsure.

Are the views worth it?
Absolutely. The scenery is frequently praised, with many reviews mentioning the stunning vistas from the sanctuary and along the trail.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes — the hike’s vertical components and trail conditions make it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments or using wheelchairs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to combine light adventure, scenic beauty, and a taste of local culture in the Cinque Terre, this hiking and wine tasting experience is a solid choice. It offers a more intimate look at the landscape, away from the crowds, with the bonus of sampling biodynamic wines at a peaceful farm. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to add a bit of flavor and nature to their trip.

That said, it’s not a casual stroll — you should be comfortable walking for several hours and prepared for some uphill sections. But if you meet those criteria, you’ll find this tour offers genuine value and plenty of memorable moments to take home.

Happy hiking and tasting!

You can check availability for your dates here: