The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre

Day 1 Lucca  Rendezvous in Lucca. Lucca is one of the few towns in Italy that has preserved its original walls. After lunch we go for a safe, easy, two-mile bike ride following the pedestrian promenade on top of the wall.  Along the ride you will enjoy great views as you completely circle the historic center. To complete our orientation we climb to the top of the 14^th century Guinigi Tower which offers 360° views of Lucca.

Day 2-3 Monterosso  Travel by van to Monterosso (Cinque Terre). After lunch we hike two-hours to Vernazza. The pedestrian trail offers great sea views as it winds along the terraced hillside. In Vernazza you can cool off with a gelato (ice cream) or take a swim in the sea.  Before dinner we meet Suzi at her family's wine bar.  There she conducts a wine tasting and explains everything that you ever wanted to know about the local vintners. Dine in a local ristorante that offers the freshest local seafood. The following morning we travel by train to Riomaggiore the easternmost town of the Cinque Terre. Today you will become a Cinque Terre expert as we backtrack visiting the four remaining villages by foot. Tonight will be dedicated to local culinary flavors. We start with a pesto making lesson lead by a local chef.  Later we enjoy pesto lasagna followed by fresh swordfish. 

Day 4-6 Santa Margherita Ligure  After breakfast we drive to the town of Santa Margherita Ligure. Today's walk takes you past elegant villas and manicured gardens on your way to the Italian Riviera's most famous seaside village - Portofino. There you can admire immaculate yachts and humble fishing boats. The next morning we return to Portofino and begin the most spectacular walk of the tour. Hiking through emerald pinewood forests you make your way to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso. You will be enchanted by the sea views as you hike through the Portofino National Forest. The Abbey sits in a secluded cove accessible only by foot or boat. Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant. After lunch take a break on the beach or tour the recently restored abbey. In the afternoon we hop a boat back to our hotel. Santa Margherita is on a main train line for easy transfers at tour's end.