Italy’s Path of Love is considered to be the most romantic walk in the world and links Riomaggiore and Manarola. It has been reopened after more than a decade. Meanwhile, authorities are keen to encourage responsible tourism on the walk that winds its way through the Cinque Terre.

Italy reopens the Path of Love

The Path of Love is one of the most famous walking routes in Italy and is set to reopen after more than a decade. Running between Riomaggiore and Manarola. The path was closed back in 2012 after a landslide injured four tourists, leading to the trail needing repairs.

Meanwhile, after extensive renovation, the Path of Love is set to fully reopen on June 27, 2024. Moreover, the first section of Vio dell’Amore welcomed tourists last year in a summer preview.

About the Vio dell’Amore (Path of Love)

The Path of Love was built during the modernization of the railway line from Genoa and La Spezia at the start of the 20th century. It was created so that railroad workers could access the line between Riomaggiore and Manarola as a rail tunnel was constructed. Moreover, the footpath was carved from the hard rock face overhanging the sea and attracted rumors that it soon became a meeting place for lovers from the two towns.

Meanwhile, the recent restoration project now contained the rocks above and below the path with steel mesh. Moreover, authorities planted some 8,800 plants in order to reinforce the pathway. In extra protection, a monitoring system has been installed to send out warnings against any potential landslides

Avoiding overtourism in Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre nestles in Liguria and consists of five villages famous for their jewel-toned buildings standing on the cliffs above the sea. Moreover, it has been designated a UNESCO  World Heritage Site and is surrounded by a national park. The site attracts around 2.4 million tourists each year to walk, boat or cycle through the picturesque surroundings.

Meanwhile, the Path of Love is among the most famous stretches of the Cinque Terre coastline and is hugely popular with tourists. Due to its popularity, in 2023 saw the quaint villages battling overtourism and fines were levied of up to €275 (almost $300) to those accused for blocking traffic by lingering for selfies along the way.

Speaking of the reopening of the Path to Love, Giovanni Toti, President of the Ligurian Region said that the Via dell’Amore is a “jewel for our region, not just for those who visit.”

Meanwhile, officials in the region hope to curb overtourism by introducing a booking system for those wishing to walk the path. Moreover, the numbers are capped at 400 and walkers have to book their tickets online, or purchase them at the park’s ticket booths.

Currently, the booking site is being updated, but in 2023 tickets cost €5 ($5.50). This included entrance to the Castle of Riomaggiore. Discounts are available for children, seniors and families.

Read more articles by Anne Sewell here.