Born and raised in Riomaggiore, Giulia has spent her life exploring the hidden corners of the Cinque Terre. She is the lead editor of The Dispatch and a certified local guide.
Giulia Rossi
Guides
The salt air in Cinque Terre is different. It carries the scent of wild thyme from the hills and the ancient stone of the villages. But most importantly, it carries the promise of the sea. For those who know where to look, the five villages offer some of the most spectacular swimming experiences in the Mediterranean.
The Sandy Sanctuary: Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso is the only village with a proper sandy beach. Fegina, the newer part of town, boasts a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. It’s the perfect spot for families and those who prefer a more traditional beach experience with umbrellas and sunbeds.
Giulia Rossi, Local Expert
If you want to swim like a local, you have to embrace the rocks. The best water isn’t where the sand is; it’s where the cliffs meet the deep blue.
The Hidden Cove: Riomaggiore’s Fossola
For those willing to walk a bit further, Fossola beach in Riomaggiore offers a wilder experience. This pebble beach is tucked behind the harbor and requires navigating a narrow path along the cliffside. The reward? Deep, emerald water and a sense of isolation that’s hard to find in the peak of summer.
Practical Tips for Swimmers
Most beaches are pebbly or rocky. Protect your feet from sharp stones and sea urchins.
Wear Water Shoes
The best swimming is before 10 AM when the water is calm and the crowds are still at breakfast.
Go Early
Even a slight swell can make getting in and out of rocky coves dangerous. Always respect the sea.
Check the Sea State
October 15, 2023
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Monterosso is the only village with a sandy beach.
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